Hi, I am Valeryia. I like to think and exercise my mind to learn new things. A few years ago I realised that thinking and learning can also be done through the body by starting a consistent movement practice. Even though moving has always been a part of my life, mostly in the form of dance, this practice was really what brought about the paradigm shift.
This world of movement and experiential learning has been calling to me ever since, and I have answered the call! I committed to a regular physical practice and became stronger, freer and more body-aware through that. I dedicated hours to learning how to pay attention and tackle complex problems by practicing acrobatic and coordination skills initially outside of my reach. I practiced in the pouring rain to feel the effect environment has on us and we on environment , climbed under bridges to witness the other side of fear, and stood still for 40 min to meet the critic and controller within.
It has already been quite a journey. But I keep walking. Eventually, I quit my office job to dedicate all of my attention and time to this endeavour. I am grateful to not be alone in my pursuit. I invite you too to walk alongside me, even if for a short while.
I understand that "movement practice" might still sound too vague. I made a video for you to introduce it in simple terms and explain how it could benefit you.
I would be nowhere without my teachers and inspirations. Here's a gratitude note to just a few of them. You definitely should check out their work!
Rich Andoh, co-founder of Hiddenbody (hiddenbody.nl). Rich taught me most of the things I know about movement and has given me unwavering support throughout my movement journey. Hiddenbody Amsterdam community, all its students and teachers, are my home outside of home. This space and people inspire me so much, I dream to foster similar experiences and connections here in Rotterdam.
Kees de Haan, co-founder of OTBmovement (otbmovement.nl), who introduced me to the world of movement and taught me how to be a movement teacher. I still teach at OTBmovement and there are many exciting projects ahead.
Ivana Zakova (ivyflow.nl), dancer and movement teacher, who infected me with the movement craze, connected me to to the dance and movement communities in the Netherlands and inspired me to become an entrepreneur.
Marcello Palozzo (marcellopalozzo.com), director of Human movement studies programme and all-round innovator in the field. My first outdoor movement workshop with Marcello has been one of the peak experiences of my life. It gave me completely different eyes to see my body, my city and my community with. What I teach now is heavily inspired by Marcello's work.