Although I have always maintained some form of conceptual understanding of stance and gait dynamics going back to my original training over 40 years ago, this understanding did not engender an experience of integration and holism in my experience of moving around in my body. Some of the information I encountered was contradictory, leaving an impression that none of us really grasped the foundational biodynamics, and motivating me to try and figure out a true model for human stance and movement.
Being curious, over the years, has led me to dabble in:
- Anthropology / Theory of Evolution
- Anatomy / Physiology / Kinematics
- R. Buckminster Fuller’s and Kenneth Snelson’s work on Tensegrity.
- Connective Tissue Research
- Manual and Movement Therapeutic Modalities
- Reflex integration in child development with a focus on CP and Autism.
- Psychology (Vagus Nerve/Autonomic Nervous System focus)
- Neurology (Brain Integration tools)
- Einstein’s General Relativity (gravity/time)
- Research on dynamic feedback on the characteristics of stance/gait patterns.
Each conceptual “silo” has foundationally contributed to the reference frame I embody and teach.
I have arrived at a point where I view my existence through the lens of animal holism, perceiving my body as a distinct organism that integrates both tensional and compressional forces to move. This perspective helps me actively balance my mass against the constant outward forces we experience. My movements stretch from the ball of my foot to the opposite eye, maintaining a consistent effort to keep stress and strain within the regenerative limits (baud rate <5Hz) of my connective tissue matrix, thereby minimizing shock loads.
Using feedback to evaluate the relative sufficiency of some action (in the context of the surroundings) enables me to continue a journey of refinement of the reflex arcs underpinning movement, staying within their information processing potential, and strengthening their individual and collective function.
The framework through which I understand my experience aligns closely with my bodily awareness—it is not merely a mental model, but a reflection of my kinesthetic sense. It feels less like I am moving intentionally and more like the animal organism I inhabit responds to my suggestions. When issues arise, they often stem not from the organism itself, but from the clarity or wisdom of the instructions I provide. Although my psyche still exhibits some habituated neurotic behaviors, these now occur within a more holistically integrated system that engages with my surroundings in a way that supports my ongoing personal development.
The frameworks documented in this blog are validated and reinforced by my experience. The blog is foundationally not an intellectual construct but rather an attempt to document findings. The principle focus of the posts is for advanced training of therapists practicing/researching Manual/Movement modalities, but there is also useful information and tools for the general reader.
I hope that you may derive some benefit from these posts, exercises, design artifacts, apps, papers, etc. Thank you for your interest.
You are welcome to reach out by email with questions or comments.
Brian Esty