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The Un/Safe Body: Exploring Conscious Walking with Alexander Technique Facilitator, Elizabeth Castagna
Description
This episode features a rich discussion between Ali Mezey and guest Elizabeth Castagna, a certified Alexander Technique instructor. They dive into themes of being conscious as a mover – specifically while walking. Do we feel supported by the Earth as we walk? How safe do we feel as bodies – and how could we feel safer? They also talk about the impact of injury on movement awareness. Ali and Elizabeth discuss how conscious movement can lead to enhanced sensation, and sense of wholeness – not just with yourself but with the world. The conversation touches upon topics such as kinetic chains, compensatory movement patterns, and the psycho-emotional aspects of body awareness. Elizabeth shares personal insights, including her experience with Lyme disease and its effect on her vision. With a focus on cultivating sensitivity and supporting others in their embodiment journeys, the conversation underscores the transformative potential of body-based practices.
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MORE ALI MEZEY:
Website: www.alimezey.com
Personal Geometry® and the Magic of Mat Work Course information:
www.alimezey.com/personal-geometry-foundations
Transgenerational Healing Films: www.constellationarts.com
MORE ELIZABETH CASTAGNA:
The Beacon Walking Lab Workshops
Instagram: @feellikeyourselfagain
Photo of Elizabeth: David McIntyre
The Alexander Technique is a method of movement education that focuses on improving posture, coordination, and body awareness. Developed by Frederick Matthias Alexander in the late 19th century, it teaches people to recognize and release habitual patterns of tension that interfere with natural movement and breathing. By emphasizing ease and balance, the technique promotes a more effortless way of moving, sitting, and standing, which can reduce pain, improve overall physical functioning, and support mental clarity. It is widely used by performers, athletes, and individuals seeking to reduce stress and enhance body mechanics.
BIO:
Elizabeth Castagna is certified to teach The Alexander Technique by Alexander Technique
International and received her training with master teacher Chloe Wing in New York City. She
became Chloe’s Teacher Training Assistant from 2006-2013.
In 2019 Elizabeth was certified by The Developing Self of the UK for teaching the Alexander
Technique to children, teens, and young adults. From this training grew The Developing Self US
group of AT teachers working to bring AT to schools in the US and to support each other in that
process. Elizabeth co-facilitates this group with AT colleague Gabrielle Czaja.
She has taught AT Lab for children ages 5 – 11 at The Randolph School for 8 years. And has
offered AT inspired better balance chair classes to seniors in retirement communities
and local libraries. Elizabeth has also led AT workshops for actors in NYC.
Elizabeth has had the opportunit