INTEGRATIVE SOMATIC THERAPY

Laura Colomban is a Registered Somatic Therapist with over a decade of experience working with both individuals and groups. She is currently pursuing training as an Integrative Psychotherapist in London.

Laura’s therapeutic approach is rooted in a compassionate, attentive stance that honours the fluidity and diversity of human experience. She employs a somatic-based, integrative method, recognising and respecting the natural resistance and limitations that can arise within this approach. Her focus is on maintaining an awareness of both her own and her clients’ processes, while also considering the cultural, social, relational, and environmental contexts that influence each individual’s journey.

“My life journey as a white woman has been shaped by my family and nation of origin, as well as the traumas, dreams, expectations, and transformations experienced over time by engaging with the world’s complexities. It has evolved through encounters with diverse cultures and perspectives. By living in various countries and engaging in different languages and ways of expressing myself, I have longed to “dirty myself” by escaping the pristine, capitalistic, white, middle-class, catholic culture and family in which I was raised. I am learning to accept it but decided not to contribute to its limited views.”

Laura offers support for a wide range of issues, including:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Body image concerns
  • Multi-cultural issues and power dynamic
  • Sexuality
  • Gender reassignment
  • Low self-esteem
  • Serious illness
  • Grief
  • Work burnout
  • Existential crisis
  • Climate anxiety

“In our sessions, you can expect a blend of dialogue and somatic exploration. This may involve tuning into physical sensations and feelings, as well as using visualisations or drawings when appropriate. The therapeutic relationship is collaborative, aimed at exploring and addressing challenges, disruptions, and healing to release patterns and belief systems that no longer serve you”.

Laura is an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community and offers a sliding scale for fees, ranging from £65 to £80.

MOVEMENT AND EXPRESSIVE ARTS ARE HEALING

OUTCOME OF SOMATIC ARTS ACTIVITY ON HEALTH COVER
  • Physical activity
  • Social interaction
  • Aesthetic engagement
  • Involvement of the imagination
  • Sensory activation
  • Evocation of emotion
  • Cognitive stimulation

OUTCOME OF SOMATIC ARTS ACTIVITY ON HEALTH

  • Psychological (e.g. enhanced self-ecacy, coping and emotional regulation)
  • Physiological (e.g. lower stress hormone response, enhanced immune function and higher cardiovascular reactivity)
  • Social (e.g. reduced loneliness and isolation, enhanced social support and improved social behaviours)
  • Behavioural (e.g. increased exercise, adoption of healthier behaviours, skills development)

MOVEMENT AND EXPRESSIVE ARTS ARE HEALING

 

YOU CAN EXPERIENCE IMPROVEMENT IN:

  • Enhanced self-efficacy
  • Coping and emotional regulation
  • Lower stress hormone response
  • Enhanced immune function
  • Higher cardiovascular reactivity
  • Reduced loneliness and isolation
  • Enhanced social support and improved social behaviours
  • Increased exercise
  • Adoption of healthier behaviours
  • Skills development

SOMATIC THERAPY

Somatic Therapy is a movement-based approach to exploring mental, physical, and emotional well-being, to access the innate wisdom of the body and the transformative power of the imagination. Laura will observe patterns and assist you in responding to the physical, emotional, and mental aspects of the experience (psycho-kinetic-imaginary process). Together, you will explore the symbolism that emerges through creative writing, drawing, and movement.

 

 

Classes in london photo 1

SOMATIC THERAPY

Somatic Therapy is a movement-based approach to exploring mental, physical, and emotional well-being, to access the innate wisdom of the body and the transformative power of the imagination. Laura will observe patterns and assist you in responding to the physical, emotional, and mental aspects of the experience (psycho-kinetic-imaginary process). Together, you will explore the symbolism that emerges through creative writing, drawing, and movement.

BREATH AND VOICE

During the Embodied Voice sessions, we will integrate breath work, vocal and physical training through a methodology developed over 40 years by breath work therapists, vocal artists, singers and somatic practitioners.

 

 

The Emboded voice cover

BREATH AND VOICE

During the Embodied Voice sessions, we will integrate breath work, vocal and physical training through a methodology developed over 40 years by breath work therapists, vocal artists, singers and somatic practitioners. Currently, you can book individual sessions in London and online.

BARRE CLASSES

is a fusion of ballet barre, dance conditioning and pilates-based movements designed to tone the muscles using principles of biomechanics for a safe, yet challenging workout.

 

 

ULTRA BARRE COVER

BARRE CLASSES

is a fusion of ballet barre, dance conditioning and pilates-based movements designed to tone the muscles using principles of biomechanics for a safe, yet challenging workout

World Health Organization defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity" Arts activities can involve aesthetic engagement, involvement of the imagination, sensory activation, evocation of emotion and cognitive stimulation.

For more information about somatic arts and Laura’s work, feel free to subscribe to the HEALTHARTS Newsletter and explore her transformative movement-based expressive arts programs:

 

Contact me for an appointment

Meet Laura Colomban: London’s Esteemed Somatic Therapist and Educator

Laura Colomban is a highly esteemed Somatic Movement Therapist and Educator based in the vibrant city of London. With her affiliation as a Registered Practitioner of the renowned ISMETA Institute of Somatic Embodied Therapy Association, Laura brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her transformative work.

For years, Laura has been providing exceptional somatic therapy services, specializing in the profound Tamalpa Life/Art Process® and Atem-Tonus-Ton methodologies. Her therapeutic approach, available to both individuals and groups, empowers clients to explore the untapped potential within their bodies, fostering deep healing and growth.

Beyond her therapeutic practice, Laura is also a Certified UltraBarre instructor, leading invigorating Barre classes in-person and online throughout London. Her passion for movement and holistic well-being has garnered a dedicated following among fitness enthusiasts seeking invigorating workouts.

Laura’s academic pursuits include graduating with distinction from the prestigious Master of Fine Arts, Creative Dance Practice program at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. During her studies, she explored the convergence of soma, sound, and technologically mediated performance practices, further enriching her expertise.

What sets Laura apart is her unwavering commitment to community and her passion for developing community-based ecosomatic psychology programs. Her vision is to create inclusive teaching methodologies that resonate with the nuances of everyday life. Laura believes that empowering individuals within their community fosters deeper connections and meaningful transformation.

As London’s go-to somatic therapist, Laura Colomban is dedicated to facilitating holistic well-being and self-discovery for her clients. Her mission to develop community-based ecosomatic psychology programs demonstrates her profound dedication to creating positive change within the London community and beyond. Contact Laura today to embark on a transformative healing journey.

Laura, a Registered Master Somatic Dance and Movement Educator (ISMETA) and Associate Teacher at Tamalpa UK, has dedicated herself to the study of dance since the age of six. Her journey has been marked by a fervent exploration of various movement forms, from ballet to contemporary, improvisation to somatic practices and martial arts. This profound engagement with movement has been underpinned by her commitment to uncovering the subtle nuances of the body and its innate expressions.

Grounded in methodologies such as the Tamalpa Life/Art Process® and Atem-Tonus-Ton, Laura has cultivated her approach to the body, integrating her experiences as a therapist since 2012, conducting both group and individual sessions. Since 2012, she has been working one-on-one with individuals, providing support through grief, trauma, stress-related issues, creative processes, fertility issues, self-image issues, and aiding cancer survivors.

Her clients range from adults to teenagers, and she serves as an ally to the LGBTQ+ Community, supporting individuals through gender transition.

SOMATIC THERAPY ACCESS INFORMATION
I receive in studios in SE4 2RS and NW6 6RD,
fully accessible to people with disabilities.

LGBTQ+ welcomed.

 

PRESS RELEASE

In an exciting collaboration that fuses the world of art and audience engagement, HealthsArts proudly presents a groundbreaking series of articles that delve into the realm of somatic practice, performance, and its profound connection to Bruce Nauman’s sensational exhibition, “Contrapposto Studies.”

Harnessing the transformative potential of performance art, this collection of articles invites art enthusiasts, practitioners, and curious minds alike to embark on a profound exploration of artistic expression, design, and the art of connecting with audiences through the vision of HealthsArts’ founder, Laura Colomban.

SOMATIC PRACTICE AND PERFORMANCE

Dive into the realm of somatic practice and its dynamic interplay with performance art. Discover how Laura Colomban draws from her embodied experiences to create powerful and emotionally resonant expressions on the canvas of human movement.

DESIGNING ACTIVITIES TO CONNECT BRUCE NAUMAN’S EXHIBITION “CONTRAPPOSTO STUDIES” AND THE MUSEUM’S AUDIENCE

Explore the intricacies of designing activities that bridge the gap between Bruce Nauman’s thought-provoking exhibition, “Contrapposto Studies,” and the diverse tapestry of HealthsArts’ audience. Learn how interactive experiences can bring the artist’s vision closer to the hearts and minds of visitors.

PERFORMANCE AS RITUAL AND LISTENING PRACTICES

Uncover the mystical aspects of performance as ritual and delve into the art of deep listening practices. Discover how Laura Colomban uses performance as a medium to evoke profound emotions, challenge perceptions, and create an ethereal connection between performers and observers.

PERFORMANCE MAKING

Step into the world of performance making, where artistic vision takes shape, and creative concepts blossom into captivating performances. Learn how Laura Colomban navigates the realm of imagination and translates her ideas into compelling acts that leave an indelible mark on the hearts of the audience.

At HealthsArts, we believe in the transformative power of art and the limitless possibilities it offers for human connection and expression. Through this series of articles, we aspire to enrich the lives of our visitors, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art of performance and its intimate connection to the human experience, guided by the visionary practices of our founder, Laura Colomban.

Join us on this captivating journey of discovery, as we celebrate the boundless creativity of artists and embrace the profound magic of performance art through the lens of Laura Colomban’s visionary approach.

Cover Wellbeing Wednesday Writing with Laura Colomban

SOMATIC PRACTICE AND PERFORMANCE

One Dance UK, 14/04/2023
Wellbeing Wednesday Writing with Laura Colomban

One Dance UK member, Laura Colomban, is a Registered Somatic Movement Educator on our Healthcare Practitioners Directory.  She has devoted more than 10 years to designing and facilitating opportunities for community engagement through movement, performance, and expressive arts.
Laura has also developed a performative research process based on the body as a manifestation of sound, grounded on the work of Anna and Lawrence Halprin.

As a part of Laura’s work, she offers a bespoke movement-based expressive arts programme centred on creativity for stress management, emotional balance and integrative well-being.
We recently had the pleasure of chatting to Laura about her work with dancers, and a vision of dance for health.

Cover Venice presents: In AnD OuT. Summer with Bruce Nauman

DESIGNING ACTIVITIES TO CONNECT BRUCE NAUMAN’S EXHIBITION “CONTRAPPOSTO STUDIES” AND THE MUSEUM’S AUDIENCE

Collectible Dry, Art-Design, 09/07/2021
Venice presents: In AnD OuT. Summer with Bruce Nauman

In Soirée (from 5 August), spectators become one with the exhibition by turning their attention to the function their bodies have within the architectural volumes of Punta della Dogana.
“This series of guided walks through the exhibition stems from the desire to get closer to the overarching theme of the showcase, namely the study of the contrapposto, relying exclusively on the body,”
Laura Colomban, a graduate dancer in Movement-based Expressive Arts Therapy, explained to Collectible DRY.

Cover Laura Colomban: Creating a Ritual out of the Art of Listening

PERFORMANCE AS RITUAL AND LISTENING PRACTICES

Between the Art, 17/05/2021
Laura Colomban: Creating a Ritual out of the Art of Listening
This week’s guest on Between the Art is somatic dance and movement educator Laura Colomban.

Laura grew up in Venice, Italy, and began dance lessons when she was six years old. This included a range of dance styles, such as ballet, contemporary, hip-hop, and musical theatre.
A few years down the line, Laura decided to go to California to train under Anna Halprin at the Tamalpa Institute, studying Halprin’s life-art process.
Laura then went to New York to learn from choreographer Daria Faïn who previously worked with poet and architect Robert Kocik to found The Commons Choir. Faïn works with Chinese energetic practices in relation to the body and performance, while Kocik has done research into linguistics, prose study, and the sound and vibratory effect that these bring to different languages. Both Halprin’s and Faïn’s uniquely different methodologies opened up Laura’s eyes in her approach to movement and working with the body. Since then, Laura has been to China to grasp further knowledge of Chinese movement practices.
She also started training with breath and voice work, and these two areas have become the main focus of her work.

Cover Hors Lits e Laura Colomban

CURATING PERFORMANCES IN DOMESTIC SPACES, THE CONNECTION WITH HORS LITS EUROPEAN NETWORK

The Living Art, 11/09/2016

Hors Lits e Laura Colomban
A The Living Art Laura Colomban porta l’esperienza di Hors Lits, progetto performativo “fuori dai letti”, che nasce a Montpellier nel 2005 e viene portato dall’artista a Venezia, aprendo gli spazi privati alla performance. Oltre a raccontarci i dettagli di questo progetto SENZA CONFINI, l’artista partecipa con una performance.
Laura Colomban è un’artista italiana con oltre 20 anni di esperienza alle spalle. Dance-maker e designer grafica, ha sviluppato la sua formazione tra l’America (Tamalpa Institute, California) e l’Europa, investigando il rapporto tra movimento, corpo, psiche e spirito, esplorando sia pratiche occidentali che asiatiche.

laura colomban, healtharts, performance, NY, audio, sound composition, performanceasresearch, London, danxe professional, research, somatic practice

PERFORMANCE MAKING

Threshold at Triskelion Arts, Brooklyn, NY, USA
Performance Press, Dance Enthusiast, 15/10/2015

Audience Review: Threshold
Surprise, intimacy, and amusement are the focus of this curiously captivating performance. Laura Colomban dances with sensitivity in a sound-generating costume that is the springboard for a visceral journey through internal and external storms. Cecilia Fontanesi and Kristin Hatleberg master layers of movement and visual imagery with a duet of progressive, irrepressible and humorous gravitation toward each other, partnered with astounding physical tricks that hold the audience spellbound.

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