Quality of life through movement.

Movement is the key to a healthy life, sports, and exercise fitness.

Hello, I'm Joan Craffey.

I am a former professional dancer, movement/ dance teacher (ballet and modern contemporary concert dance), a Master synchronized/ artistic swimmer, and competitive speed swimmer.I have taught language, history and aquatic classes, for over 20 years. My academic credentials encompassing an Educational Doctorate, two Masters of Science and a Master of Arts. I believe learning is a never ending pursuit — both formal and informal.I designed this movement program for you, especially for people over 40 who are confronted with aging challenges and time constraints. My approach addresses the problem of the gap times after Physical Therapy, Chiropractic, acupuncture and massage.

The Fundamentals

Everyone can move functionally, but even from birth, we do not have a manual or blueprint for optimizing our somatic functioning. We can make better what we are capable of through awareness, breathing, and selective attention.

Kinetic Awareness

First, we become aware of body beginnings and endings in space. Using range of movement of each joint shows how we extend through space. This movement demonstrates flexibility, limitations, and what range each student is approaching.

Body Posture

Is body posture helping or hindering your range of motion? How can changing the posture and alignment better this movement range? The answer is as unique as each person. Some need stretching; others balancing and strength exercises.

Locomotion

A simple walking assessment usually shows strengths and weaknesses. (Hop, skip, run, roll or balance are some choices depending upon each individuals functioning).

Strengthening

The last factor is strengthening soft tissues and overall body adjustment. This upright posture shows more effective movement patterns and sequences. This result gives the student easier and freedom of movement with minimizing pain and wear and tear conditions.