RESEARCH

“The day you think you know it all and stop learning, you might as well quit because you’ll be no good to anybody.”

— Naomi Sawyer

ABOUT NAOMI’S EXPERTISE

ABOUT NAOMI’S EXPERTISE

Neuroplasticity

is Naomi’s main focus of study, which is “the ability of the brain to form and reorganize synaptic connections, especially in response to learning or experience or following injury” (Google definition). Naomi is fascinated by how we as people—and specifically, as dancers—learn, process, and produce movement, adjusting our skills accordingly. By studying how our brains learn, evolve, and transform through various processes, one can observe the neuro-patterning and re-patterning at play in the mind and body. Naomi is particularly fascinated in applying these studies to how the dancer augments their learning through the following experiences and practices of the dancer and teacher:

  • Applying corrections

  • Strategically positioning yourself in class

  • Noting how many times you must repeat a combination before memorization

  • Kinesthetic memory (memory through physical movement)

  • The benefit of learning from teachers who let you engage

  • Becoming aware of how we think, dance, and perform and applying this data to our auditions or performances

  • Observing how we move & improving our movement

As an artist and therapist of the body, Naomi is personally invested in continually exploring how dancers can reach and sustain their highest physical potential through the latest and most innovative research, so that she can provide her clients with the knowledge and tools to enjoy dance through every stage of life.


PT for about 10 years working mostly with neuro patients

Attending the IADS 2019 International Conference

International Association for Dance & Science - 2019 International Conference 

Been receiving journals/member for 5 years

Continuing education as a PT - so many aspects applied to dancers