Engaging the Movement of Life Exploring Health and Embodiment Through Osteopathy and Continuum

There is no spiritual path without a physical body in which to have it, and there is no physical existence without spirit. InEngaging the Movement of Life,Bonnie Gintis offers an approach to health in body and spirit that encompasses movement, mindfulness, and breath as empowering practices to enrich all aspects of life. Based on an understanding of osteopathic and movement awareness principles, the book argues that movement is a manifestation of life and health. Rather than focus on eradicating disease, dysfunction, and inertia, a more productive path would be a paradigm shift to health through movement. An osteopathic physician and Continuum Movement teacher, Gintis asks readers to visualize the body as a self-regulating, self-healing unified field of function. Moving fluidly, she argues, allows us to vitalize our own fluid system, just as water is vitalized by its ability to flow freely. The book describes how breathing, refining attention and awareness, and pacing movement can expand the consciousness and open new possibilities for the practitioner. Equally useful for medical professionals, bodyworkers, spiritual seekers, and exercise enthusiasts, this guide offers a body-based philosophy of personal growth and strategies for applying it.

Bonnie Gintis, DO, has taught osteopathic principles and practice at many institutions including the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine. An authorized Continuum Movement teacher, she lives in Aptos, CA. Emilie Conrad lives in Santa Monica, CA.