The artistry in the application of Chavutti Thirumal is in the practitioner/therapist being able to balance on one leg, using fluid and effortless strokes with control, precision and power. This graceful strength in is a mirror of the dancers and warriors of Kerala who created this system of bodywork thousands of years ago.

This dance effect is made possible because the therapist remains upright, working from the same base, in other words, from the ground upwards. The ease of this extended movement is dependent on the therapist learning, as the dancers/warriors do, to work from a centre of gravity in the centre below the navel, known as the dantien or hara. This requires in depth study to first locate and activate this energy centre. This process is initiated through basic standing/moving/sitting exercises which then enable the practitioner to start opening up the meridiens through a cleaning/clearing process. The ground is then prepared for the cultivation/conservation of this energy which can be directed and applied internally or externally, whether it be for meditation, martial arts, dance and healing/massage.

Each day of the course begins with a minimum of one hours exercise practice and therefore a progressive understanding of the science of energy cultivation. The key to embodying this knowledge in the art of Chavutti Thirumal is in the physical form - the body posture. Each foot sequence is taught in relation to the overall body position and developing an awareness in the student of how form connects with movement and feeling, both in the therapist and the client.

SAVING THE PRACTITIONERS BODY AND MIND
The aim of the course is not just to give you a series of techniques, rather a therapeutic tool which is skilfull and powerful precisely because it embodies the inner as well as the outer life of the body. The motivation is to ensure that each student begins to develop and integrate these inner/outer skills which are applied to all movement and exercise. In this way, the practice of Chavutti Thirumal becomes an extension of the therapists personal practice and development with psycholgical and physical benefits. By maintaining a centre of gravity the body is more self-supporting and the therapist is able to use the smaller muscle groups expelling less effort and avoiding burn out. The insights gained in your exercise and Chavutti practice feed and support each other. This keeps the work challenging and inspiring.

The Soma Institute
P.O. Box 37823
London
SE23 3WH

Tel: 07790 562781
Email: emmafield@hotmail.com