SOFT BODIES: Somatic Movement Classes

DATES: SUNDAYS Feb 15, 22 & March 1, 8, 15, 2026

TIME: 2-4 PM

LOCATION: 688 Richmond Street West

COST: suggested donation $15-$25/class by e-transfer prior to attending each class

REGISTRATION: please fill out the Eventbrite form or email [email protected]

SOFT BODIES are somatic movement classes led by Meryem Alaoui, where we gather to move, dance, breathe, voice, touch (with consent), and rest together as a community.

In these classes, we learn to sense our somatic experience from the body, directly from our tissues, so we can be more present and embodied.

We give our rationalizing and logical brain a break, so we can enjoy our sensitive body and connect to its innate intelligence and wisdom.

We explore how to move with more ease and pleasure.

We practice listening to our body, awakening our senses and body awareness.

We slow down and focus on resetting our nervous system, to release tension, and to bring a deep sense of relaxation and peace to our body and mind.

We explore what’s beyond our familiar habits and our comfort zone, while prioritizing physical and emotional safety, to practice building new neural pathways and strengthening our resilience skills.

We reconnect to our curiosity, our joy, and our sense of play.

CLASS CONTENT

• Somatizations (using our felt sense and imagination, to connect to our cells, usually done in resting positions)
• Movement and voice explorations
• Touch and hands-on work
• Creative games
• Dance improvisation
• Embodied anatomy studies

LEVEL

No prior experience is necessary. All levels. These classes are for adults only.

INSTRUCTOR BIO

A graduate of the School of Toronto Dance Theatre (2009), Meryem Alaoui is a professional contemporary dancer, choreographer, and a certified Body-Mind Centering® Somatic Movement Educator (2002). She has led numerous dance and movement workshops for professional dancers, and in community settings for seniors, youth and new immigrants, in Canada and internationally.

TESTIMONIAL

“The weekly series of somatic workshops became a touchstone for me to slow down and connect with myself in a safe, calm environment.

Meryem’s gentle guidance and simple yet effective movements brought a greater sense of ease and space into the rest of my day. She’s a knowledgeable and gifted teacher with much wisdom to share.” ~ Sarah Martens, Movement Teacher

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Host or Publisher Jasad Dance Projects/Meryem Alaoui