Introduction to Authentic Movement
Having been deeply moved by the transformational disciple and practice of Authentic Movement, Moriah is excited to share it with her community here in Ojai. Moriah is honored to learn from and be mentored by Wendy Elliott, who has been a long time practitioner and student of this form.
What is it? Authentic Movement is a deeply personal, improvisational movement practice and a form of embodied active imagination. It is a discipline where individuals explore the connection between their inner experiences (sensations, feelings, images, memories) and their outward, physical expression. Unlike dance or choreography, the mover's intention is not to create a performance but to follow their own internal impulses with a quality of deep, non-judgmental listening.
At its core, it is a practice of witnessing and being witnessed in a state of authentic expression. It is often described as a moving meditation, a pathway to the unconscious, and a powerful tool for psychological integration, creativity, and spiritual inquiry.
Offering: A donation-based Introduction to Authentic Movement group in Ojai, CA on Wednesday 10/8 & 10/15 from 6-8 pm.
To hold your spot please RSVP to Moriah at moriahclaire@solcalling.com no later than Monday, 10/5 for the 10/8 session and by Monday, 10/13 for the 10/15 session (group is limited to 8 participants).
Following these two introduction, donation-based, drop-in sessions, a closed weekly Authentic Movement Group will be formed for those who are interested in continuing to deepen their practice.
The Art of Connection - High school Freshman girl Group
The Art of Connection is a weekly supportive therapy group (running for 6-weeks) for freshman girls designed to help you build a solid foundation within yourself. We blend expressive arts and somatic practices to help you move out of your head and into your body, giving you the tools to navigate life's challenges with greater ease and self-assurance.
In this group, you will learn to:
- Build Genuine Connections: Break through the surface and experience what it’s like to be your true self in a community of supportive peers. Practice vulnerability and communication in a safe space where you are seen, heard, and valued for who you are.
- Express Yourself Without Judgment: Use painting, movement, writing, and other creative modalities to explore your inner world, release emotions, and tell your story—no artistic skill or experience required.
- Find ways of accepting and being in your body as it is: Discover the language of your body and learn practical, somatic tools to calm anxiety, and move out of states of overwhelm and shutdown.
- Feel more comfortable being yourself: Quiet your inner critic. Through creative expression, you'll access and strengthen your unique voice, building a sense of self-worth that comes from within, not from external validation.
This group is for you if you:
- Often feel anxious, overwhelmed, or emotionally drained
- Struggle with self-doubt or comparing yourself to others
- Want trustworthy friendships but aren't sure how to get there
- Are ready to understand your emotions and reactions on a deeper level
Beginning January 2026 for 6 consecutive weeks.
Please reach out via email to moriahclaire@solcalling.com if you are interested in learning more.
Facilitated by Somatic Psychotherapists Moriah Stapf, AMFT#140412 & Lauren Hayes, AMFT#127843 this group provides a safe and compassionate container to explore, experiment, and grow into a more confident and connected you.
