“Convulsive States” at Pioneer Works, an exhibition curated by artist Liz Magic Laser, delves into the concept of shaking as both a symptom and a potential cure for psychological distress. While animals instinctively tremble to discharge stress, humans often internalize emotions like rage, grief, and panic. Somatic therapists have suggested that shaking can help individuals release these pent-up emotions, leading to benefits for physical and mental health. Laser’s exploration of shaking as a therapeutic practice is influenced by her mother, Wendy Osserman, a renowned choreographer and dancer who uses movement to alleviate pressure and stress. The exhibition showcases videos of various shaking practices, such as gyrokinesis, qigong, and holotropic breath work, performed by practitioners. Additionally, a documentary created by Laser and Laura Geisswiller offers insights into the history of shaking as a response to trauma, incorporating interviews with professionals from different fields. Drawing inspiration from the research conducted by 19th-century neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot on hypnosis and hysteria at Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital in Paris, the exhibition blurs the boundaries between art and other forms of expression. Laser’s exploration of the physical manifestations of emotional expression and the potential therapeutic value of shaking opens up intriguing new avenues of thought.
The Concept of Shaking as a Symptom and a Cure
Shaking, as a response to psychological distress, has long been a topic of fascination and exploration. In her exhibition “Convulsive States” at Pioneer Works, artist Liz Magic Laser delves into the concept of shaking as both a symptom and a potential cure for various mental and physical ailments. Drawing on research from somatic therapists, the exhibition seeks to understand the ways in which animals and humans respond to stress and trauma, and how shaking can be utilized as a therapeutic tool.
Trembling as a Trauma Response in Animals
Somatic therapists suggest that animals instinctively tremble as a means of discharging stress and releasing trauma from their bodies. This natural response, often referred to as the “fight-or-flight” response, allows animals to release pent-up energy and return to a state of equilibrium. By trembling, animals are able to physically discharge the energy generated by stress and trauma, preventing it from becoming ingrained in their bodies. This understanding of shaking as a trauma response serves as a foundational concept for the exploration of shaking as a therapeutic practice in humans.
Storing up Rage, Grief, and Panic in Humans
While animals have developed a natural mechanism for releasing stress and trauma through shaking, humans tend to store up these emotions within their bodies. Instead of physically discharging the energy generated by stress, humans often internalize it, resulting in long-term physical and psychological ailments. This storing up of emotions can manifest in various ways, from chronic pain and tension to anxiety and depression. By understanding the potential impact of unresolved emotions on the body, the exhibition seeks to explore the therapeutic potential of shaking as a means of releasing this stored-up energy.
Shaking as a Therapy for Physical and Mental Ailments
Recognizing the importance of releasing stored-up emotions, shaking has been increasingly used as a therapeutic tool for treating various physical and mental ailments. Shaking therapy, also known as tremor release therapy, involves consciously inducing shaking movements in the body as a means of releasing tension and trauma. This form of therapy has been found to be particularly effective in relieving symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and chronic pain. By facilitating the release of stored-up emotions, shaking therapy can help individuals regain a sense of balance and well-being.
Benefits of Shaking Therapy
Shaking therapy offers a range of benefits for individuals struggling with physical and mental ailments. Through the process of shaking, the body is able to release pent-up tension and trauma, leading to a sense of relief and relaxation. This physical discharge of energy can also help individuals regain a sense of control over their bodies and emotions. Furthermore, shaking has been found to activate the body’s natural healing mechanisms, promoting the release of endorphins and reducing the levels of stress hormones in the body. As a result, individuals may experience improved mood, reduced anxiety, and enhanced overall well-being.
Types of Shaking Practices Used in Therapy
There are various types of shaking practices that have been utilized in therapeutic settings to facilitate emotional release and healing. One such practice is gyrokinesis, a movement method that combines elements of dance, yoga, and tai chi. Gyrokinesis involves fluid, circular movements that engage the entire body, promoting flexibility, strength, and self-awareness. Another shaking practice commonly used in therapy is qigong, an ancient Chinese practice that combines movement, breath control, and visualization to cultivate energy and restore balance. Finally, holotropic breathwork, a technique developed by psychiatrist Stanislav Grof, involves disciplined breathing patterns that induce altered states of consciousness and promote emotional and physical catharsis.
Wendy Osserman: The Body as a Tool for Release
Central to Liz Magic Laser’s exploration of shaking as a symptom and a cure is the work of her mother, Wendy Osserman. Osserman, a renowned choreographer and dancer, recognizes the power of the body as a tool for release and healing. Throughout her career, Osserman has utilized her own body movements as a means of channeling and expressing emotions, providing a unique perspective on the therapeutic potential of shaking. Her work serves as a source of inspiration for Laser’s exploration of the physical manifestations of emotional expression and the potential healing benefits of shaking.
The Videos of Shaking Practices
Within the exhibition “Convulsive States,” videos of practitioners demonstrating various shaking practices are prominently featured. One such practice is gyrokinesis, as previously mentioned, which offers a dynamic and fluid approach to movement and self-expression. Through the demonstration of gyrokinesis, visitors to the exhibition can observe the power and potential of shaking as a means of releasing tension and accessing a deeper sense of self. Additionally, videos featuring demonstrations of qigong and holotropic breath work showcase the diverse range of shaking practices available for therapeutic use, allowing viewers to gain insight into their unique benefits and techniques.
The Shaking Documentary
As a central component of the exhibition, Liz Magic Laser and Laura Geisswiller have created a documentary that explores the history of shaking and its connection to trauma. Through interviews with experts in psychology, neurology, spirituality, and therapy, the documentary provides a comprehensive understanding of the various dimensions of shaking as a response to trauma. By delving into the historical context and contemporary perspectives on shaking, the documentary aims to shed light on the multifaceted nature of this phenomenon.
Exploring the History of Shaking as a Trauma Response
Within the documentary, there is an exploration of the historical significance of shaking as a response to trauma. Archival footage of patients at Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital in Paris is featured, showcasing the groundbreaking work of 19th-century neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot. Charcot’s research on hypnosis and hysteria led to significant advancements in the understanding of shaking as a symptom of psychological distress. By including this historical context, the exhibition offers a deeper appreciation for the evolution of shaking as both a scientific and artistic exploration.
Liz Magic Laser’s Fascination with Charcot’s Work
Liz Magic Laser’s fascination with shaking as a response to trauma was sparked by a photograph of patients convulsing at Salpêtrière, captured during Charcot’s time there. The profound impact of this image on Laser’s artistic imagination and exploration is evident throughout the exhibition. By examining the connection between the photograph and Laser’s artistic practice, visitors can gain insight into the personal journey that led her to investigate shaking as a symptom and a cure for psychological distress. The image serves as a visual anchor, reminding viewers of the historical significance and complexity of shaking as a response to trauma.
Inspiration for the Exhibition
Laser’s fascination with shaking as a response to trauma, inspired by Charcot’s work and her mother’s use of the body in her artistic practice, culminates in the exhibition “Convulsive States.” This interdisciplinary exploration of shaking blurs the line between art and expression, reflecting Laser’s diverse artistic practice and research. By merging elements of movement, video, and documentary, the exhibition invites viewers to engage with the multifaceted nature of shaking, encouraging them to explore the intersections between physical and emotional expression.
Blurring the Line Between Art and Expression
At the heart of “Convulsive States” is the blurring of the line between art and other forms of expression. Liz Magic Laser’s diverse artistic practice, which encompasses performance, video, and installation, informs the interdisciplinary approach of the exhibition. By embracing a variety of mediums and artistic techniques, Laser challenges traditional notions of art and invites viewers to navigate the complex terrain of human emotions and experiences. Through the exploration of shaking as both a symptom and a cure, the exhibition draws attention to the power of art to elicit emotional responses and provoke introspection.
Exploring the Physical Manifestations of Emotional Expression
Embedded within “Convulsive States” is a deep exploration of the physical manifestations of emotional expression. By examining the bodily reactions to various emotions and states of distress, the exhibition seeks to illuminate the profound connection between mind and body. Through this exploration, the potential therapeutic value of shaking as a means of releasing pent-up emotions becomes apparent. By embracing the physicality of emotional expression, individuals may find a path to healing and self-discovery.
Understanding the Potential Therapeutic Value of Shaking
Through the comprehensive exploration of shaking as a symptom and a potential cure, “Convulsive States” invites viewers to understand the potential therapeutic value of shaking. By acknowledging the physical and psychological consequences of storing up emotions, the exhibition encourages the utilization of shaking as a means of releasing tension and trauma. Whether through shaking therapy or engaging in shaking practices such as gyrokinesis and qigong, individuals may find a renewed sense of well-being and a pathway to healing.
In conclusion, the exhibition “Convulsive States” offers a comprehensive exploration of shaking as both a symptom and a potential cure for psychological distress. By delving into the history of shaking, showcasing various shaking practices, and examining the emotional and physical manifestations of shaking, the exhibition illuminates the multifaceted nature of this phenomenon. By embracing the potential therapeutic value of shaking, individuals may discover new pathways to release stress, trauma, and pent-up emotions, ultimately finding a greater sense of balance, healing, and well-being.
