Movement

Movement energizes the body, clears the mind and supports a healthy outlook. Does anything else do that? Without any adverse side effects? Movement is magic!

Leah Parkhurst travels throughout the U.S. teaching a range of movement principles to support other crafts people in their studio practices. Movement allows artisans dedicated time to work from their core and build greater awareness of motor patterning. That practice can support injury prevention, recovery and overall performance in the studio. Many studio artists begin a movement practice working from their periphery, because they are unaware about how to safely work from their core. Leah’s wish is for other studio artists to experience the magic of movement for themselves and see how a healthy, strong and supple body is critical to a long-term, safe career for makers of all kinds. Overuse injuries, carpal tunnel and hours of sitting negatively impact working artisans. A regular movement practice is a wonderful way to connect both the body and mind of an artist. Movement helps craftspeople develop a better awareness of repetitive movement patterns, which can have a negative effect on the body, and the ability to stay present mentally. Breathing connects the mind to the body and allows an artisan to shift the focus internally. Concentration helps students move their mind into their body to develop better quality and efficiency of movement. Lastly, flowing movement allows makers to develop the mental and physical stamina necessary for physically demanding tasks. A regular movement practice can keep a craftsperson injury free and allow them to keep working for many years to come. 

If you are new to movement, just coming back to a practice or haven’t found just the right thing, Leah will show you how exercise, when done in just the right way, is a pleasurable experience to come back to over and over.

Leah Parkhurst is trained in and continues to study Pilates, yoga, reiki and cycling.