BODYMIND
BodyMind is a philosophical approach and practice that connects the body, the mind, spirit and movement
BodyMind is a holistic practice that reveals the profound interconnections between the body, the mind, spirit and movement. It emphasizes the body as key to emotional and spiritual transformation and teaches how the body and mind affect and reflect on each other.
Through the practice of BodyMind, individuals gain insights into their emotional processes and learn how to align their mental focus to achieve physical results.
BodyMind allows the participant to pause their automatic stream of thoughts, cultivate new mental patterns, and venture beyond the familiar boundaries of their self-perception. The practice strengthens the body, improves flexibility, enhances posture, and releases accumulated tension.
BodyMind classes help participants develop a solid physical foundation, awaken new movement posabilities, and observe their emotions through improvisation exercises that explore how imagination can enhance virtuosity, versatility, flow, and ease.
In recent years, the practice of BodyMind has spread among dancers and teachers from multiple movement disciplines and has expanded to senior practitioners, and wider audiences, both domestically and internationally.
Shirly Barbie: “Our focus goes beyond mere form; we delve into the essence of the experience. In our exploratory research, form emerges naturally—not as something detached or ‘cold’ but as an exciting and immersive movement experience that resonates with our audience.”
“As soon as the range of options starts to expand, the body also becomes able.”
An article about Shirly Barbie: “One Artist per Week” by Avi Golran”, Time Out magazine.
Shirly Barbie is a highly experienced dancer, choreographer, and dance teacher. She has provided dancers with support in their journeys toward admission to different dance schools , has created customized choreographies that have garnered various awards, and has prepared contestants for auditions and competitions.
Shirly has taught in several teacher courses, covering various styles, such as hip-hop, jazz, and contemporary dance, and has worked closely with actors from many theaters and performing arts schools.
She has provided personal guidance to contestants who have achieved international success. Her past students include the Israeli youth judo champion Guy Gurevich (2017), world salsa champions Yair and Chen Lev-Tov (2018), and the recipient of the “Outstanding Dancer” recognition Shahar Kaplinsky (2021).
The impact of Shirly’s teachings can be seen in her students’ success. They have embraced diverse roles in the arts industry, showcasing their talents at dance companies and renowned dance institutions, both in Israel and worldwide. Shirly’s influence continues to shape the next generation of dancers, instilling in them the skills and passion necessary to thrive in the arts field.
Shirly Barbie:“I aim to reveal the extraordinary powers that lie within each of us and to empower individuals to become more creative and versatile dancers and, ultimately, the most exuberant, successful and happy people they can be.”
