1/4 Hour LabO #72: "Are We Truly Free in Our Movement?" - Emma Gomez

Welcome to the 1/4 Hour LabO Podcast

Welcome to this episode of the 1/4 Hour LabO, where we explore the fundamental question: are we truly free in our movements? Today, we are pleased to welcome Emma Gomes. Initially a physiotherapist, Emma has enriched her practice by training in archaic reflexes and free movement, notably through the teachings of Ido Portal. Her unique approach combines neuro-functionality with a lively and experiential practice of movement, aiming to liberate and explore the potential of each individual.

In this exciting exchange, Emma invites us to reconsider our relationship with movement. Beyond repetitive and structured exercises, she promotes a "movement practice" that, while framed by constraints, paves the way for personal exploration and the discovery of uncharted abilities. She highlights the importance of working on different sensory systems and neuromuscular integration, essential for true freedom of movement.

The Distinction Between "Movement Practice" and "Practicing Movements"

Emma Gomes emphasizes a crucial difference between "practicing movements" and "movement practice." The former involves structured, repetitive gestures, sometimes focused on imitation. The "movement practice," on the other hand, although it includes a framework and constraints, aims to create a space where the individual can explore their own often-ignored potential. The goal is to allow everyone to express themselves fully through movement.

This approach inevitably involves working on different sensory systems, directly impacting the nervous system. The integration of neuro-functionality is therefore at the heart of her practice, which skillfully combines elements of physiotherapy, archaic reflexes, and free movement.

Adapting the Movement Practice

Personalized and Collective Approaches

As a physiotherapist, Emma tailors her method to meet the needs of each individual. For patients in physiotherapy, she incorporates specific exercises and establishes personalized protocols, while adding a playful and exploratory dimension to movement. For group classes, the challenge is to provide a framework where each participant can work at their own level, feeling challenged without being frustrated or physically limited. It is not about seeking perfection or immediate performance, but rather the lived experience of movement, accepting mistakes as part of the learning process.

The Importance of Progression and Integration

Emma insists that movement is not a static outcome, but an evolving process. What we see on social media as fluid "flows" is actually the result of detailed, piece-by-piece work. The integration of reflexes, for example, is a daily endeavor over several weeks or months. Emma uses slowness and precise invitations to initiate movement from a specific part of the body to facilitate this integration and overcome blockages.

Freedom Through Movement: False Movement and Structuring Constraints

The question of freedom of movement raises the idea of "false movement." For Emma, a "false movement" is often a protective reaction of the nervous system in response to an unusual situation or unexplored range of motion. By habituating one's body to experience different positions and transitions, one becomes less likely to make these "false movements." Three-dimensional exploration and familiarity with varied stimuli are key to developing this ease.

Freedom of movement does not mean moving randomly without a framework. On the contrary, to push the limits of one's own abilities, a structuring constraint is necessary. She cites the simple example of ground support: by exploring all possible variations with four supports, then removing one, new possibilities for movement are discovered. These constraints, far from limiting, stimulate exploration and enrich the motor repertoire.

The learning environment must be positive, free from the fear of "doing it wrong" or making a "false movement." The goal is not to judge the correctness of movement, but to encourage the sensory and somatic exploration of each individual. It is an invitation to "experience it for oneself" to understand its richness.

Different Course and Workshop Formats

Emma offers various workshop formats adapted to different energies and objectives. She primarily distinguishes between two types of classes:

"Calm" Class: Exploration and Flow

This class begins with a quarter-hour of neuro warm-up and sensory activation. Then, a "flow" sequence is established. Unlike the perfect videos seen online, setting up this flow takes time, with repetitions, explorations of transitions, pauses, and changes in rhythm (slow, fast, contrast). The goal is not visual perfection, but a deep bodily experience.

"Active" Class: Play, Coordination, and Adaptability

This class follows the same warm-up but then incorporates four dynamic sequences: two "mini-flow" sequences on the ground, a coordination sequence inspired by "fighting monkey" (working feet and arms in different directions, body mapping), and a play sequence (alone, with a partner, or with equipment). These sequences are repeated in a circuit, offering different levels of intensity and stimulating unpredictability and adaptability. The modulation of rhythms and the evolution of sequences ensure that participants never get bored and are always faced with new surprises.

The Challenges of Daily Integration and Self-Discipline

Emma addresses the challenge of establishing a home exercise routine. She emphasizes that her patients should think about when and how to integrate these practices into their daily lives. She notes that integrating a new behavior, whether it involves physical exercises or other lifestyle changes, goes through various phases, with possible setbacks. Motivation and understanding of the approach are essential for maintaining consistency.

She observes impressive results among dedicated individuals, even among seniors over 70 years old. Renewing experiences, working on transitions, and targeted exercises stimulate memory, orientation, and spatial awareness, demonstrating the tangible benefits of regular and varied practice.

The Impact of Archaic Reflexes and the Surrounding Context

Emma collaborates with a network of health professionals (doctors, psychomotor therapists, orthopedists) for the integration of archaic reflexes. She notes an increased prevalence of unintegrated reflexes, an observation shared by her colleagues, particularly following periods of lockdown. Stress and cognitive and emotional disorders related to these times can significantly impact posture and freedom of movement. The reduction of social interactions, facial expressions, and the impact on the vagus nerve are elements that confirm the importance of a holistic approach.

Connecting with Emma Gomes

For those who wish to learn more or experience Emma Gomes' approach, you can find her on social media. Her center is called "Ema Synergies" and her professional page is "Emma Gomes – Access Health through Movement."