The Science of Dance Therapy in Amsterdam

The Science of Dance: Therapy, Learning & Teaching
One-Day Intensive Course | Amsterdam
29 November 2026 · 11 am–7 pm

Explore how neuroscience and psychology can deepen our understanding of dance, support wellbeing, and inform the way we learn and teach.

This immersive one-day course brings together scientific insights and practical movement experiences. Whether you’re a therapist, educator, dancer or simply curious about the connection between mind and body, you’ll discover ideas and activities to bring into your own practice.

Throughout both parts, theory is applied to practice through guided movement, reflection and group discussion.

Part 1 — The Science of Dance Therapy

Explore the neuroscience and psychology behind dance’s potential to support emotional wellbeing, body awareness and social connection. Discover how intentional movement can create opportunities for expression, exploration and self-understanding.

We’ll explore:

• Movement and the brain: emotional regulation, stress, neuroplasticity, memory and coordination.
• Psychological dimensions: embodiment, emotional expression, confidence and connection.
• Practical approaches: guided improvisation, rhythm, breath and adaptable movement activities.
• Experiential learning: individual exploration, shared movement, reflection and integration exercises.

For: Dancers, teachers, therapists, educators and anyone interested in applying dance to support health and wellbeing.

Part 2 — The Neuroscience of Dance: Learn and Teach Better

Discover how understanding attention, memory and motor learning can help you approach dance training and teaching with greater clarity.

We’ll explore:

• The dancing brain: how we perceive, plan, learn and coordinate movement.
• Learning and retention: practical strategies for structuring practice and remembering choreography.
• Teaching approaches: using demonstration, imagery, feedback and repetition thoughtfully.
• Creativity: exploring improvisation, experimentation and movement possibilities.
• Neurodiversity: adapting communication, pacing and activities to different learning needs.

For: Dance educators, choreographers, performers and movement enthusiasts who want to deepen their understanding of learning and teaching.

What You’ll Gain

Deeper Mind–Body Awareness
Explore the relationships between movement, emotions, bodily sensations and cognition through both science and personal experience.

Practical Tools for Your Work
Take away movement activities and reflective exercises you can adapt within your professional role, teaching or personal practice.

New Approaches to Wellbeing
Explore ways to create space for expression, body awareness and connection through dance.

More Effective Learning and Teaching
Develop a clearer understanding of how attention, practice, feedback and memory shape dance learning.

Professional Development
Expand your knowledge of neuroscience and psychology, and build confidence in connecting research with movement practice.

How We’ll Work

The day combines accessible presentations, guided movement explorations, partner and group activities, and reflective discussion. You’ll experience the exercises yourself, explore their scientific foundations, and consider how to adapt them to your setting.

Participation in movement activities is invitational, with space to adapt, observe or pause according to your comfort and needs.

Who Can Attend?

The course welcomes dance teachers, performers, choreographers, therapists, psychologists, educators and anyone curious about movement, the brain and wellbeing.

No background in neuroscience is required. Scientific concepts will be explained clearly and connected to practical experiences throughout the day.

What to Bring

Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. Bring water, a notebook, and any questions you would like to explore about your learning, teaching or professional practice.

Please note: This course offers professional development and personal exploration. It does not qualify participants as dance movement therapists.

Amsterdam at Creative Studio
29 November 2026
11 am–7 pm, local time

Spaces are limited — reserve your place and join us for a day of movement, science and connection.