Charlotte Selver Quotes
- Teacher and practitioner of Sensory Awareness
- Germany
- 1924
Charlotte Selver (1901-2003) was a German-born American somatic educator and pioneer in the field of sensory awareness. She is best known for her work in developing the Sensory Awareness approach, which emphasizes the importance of being fully present and attuned to one’s senses in order to li…Read More
Charlotte Selver (1901-2003) was a German-born American somatic educator and pioneer in the field of sensory awareness. She is best known for her work in developing the Sensory Awareness approach, which emphasizes the importance of being fully present and attuned to one’s senses in order to live a more fulfilling and authentic life.Selver’s approach was influenced by her studies with philosopher and educator Elsa Gindler, as well as her own personal experiences with meditation and bodywork. She taught workshops and trainings around the world, and her work has been embraced by a wide range of individuals and professionals, including artists, therapists, and educators.Some of Selver’s notable works include her book “The Body in Psychotherapy” and the documentary film “Sensing the Silence: Charlotte Selver and Her Work.” She also co-founded the Sensory Awareness Foundation, which continues to promote and teach her approach today.Selver’s legacy continues to inspire and influence individuals seeking a deeper connection with themselves and the world around them. Her emphasis on the power of sensory awareness and mindful living remains relevant and impactful in today’s fast-paced and technology-driven society.Read Less
Charlotte Selver (1901-2003) was a German-born American somatic educator and pioneer in the field of sensory awareness. She is best known for her work in developing the Sensory Awareness approach, which emphasizes the importance of being fully present and attuned to one’s senses in order to live a more fulfilling and authentic life.Selver’s approach was influenced by her studies with philosopher and educator Elsa Gindler, as well as her own personal experiences with meditation and bodywork. She taught workshops and trainings around the world, and her work has been embraced by a wide range of individuals and professionals, including artists, therapists, and educators.Some of Selver’s notable works include her book “The Body in Psychotherapy” and the documentary film “Sensing the Silence: Charlotte Selver and Her Work.” She also co-founded the Sensory Awareness Foundation, which continues to promote and teach her approach today.Selver’s legacy continues to inspire and influence individuals seeking a deeper connection with themselves and the world around them. Her emphasis on the power of sensory awareness and mindful living remains relevant and impactful in today’s fast-paced and technology-driven society.
Charlotte Selver Career Highlights
- In 1924, Selver began her career as a teacher at the Pestalozzi-Froebel Haus in Berlin, where she taught movement and dance to children.
- In 1938, she fled Nazi Germany and moved to the United States, where she continued her work as a teacher and educator.
- In 1941, Selver began studying with Fritz Perls, the founder of Gestalt therapy, and incorporated his teachings into her work.
- In 1949, she founded the Sensory Awareness Foundation in New York City, which aimed to promote the practice of sensory awareness and its benefits.
- In the 1950s, Selver began teaching sensory awareness workshops and retreats, which gained popularity and attracted students from all over the world.
- In 1971, she published her book “Sensory Awareness: The Rediscovery of Experiencing” which became a seminal work in the field of somatic education.
- In 1980, Selver moved to California and continued to teach workshops and train teachers in sensory awareness until her passing in 2003.
Key Contributions by Charlotte Selver
- Selver’s biggest contribution was her development and promotion of sensory awareness, a practice that focuses on tuning into one’s senses and experiencing the present moment fully.
- She combined her knowledge of movement, dance, and Gestalt therapy to create a unique approach to somatic education.
- Selver’s workshops and retreats were highly sought after and attracted students from various backgrounds, including artists, therapists, and educators.
- She trained numerous teachers in sensory awareness, who went on to spread her teachings and continue her legacy.
What Sets Charlotte Selver Apart
- Selver’s approach to somatic education was unique and groundbreaking at the time. She emphasized the importance of experiencing the present moment through the senses, rather than relying on intellectual understanding.
- She was a strong advocate for self-discovery and encouraged her students to trust their own experiences and sensations.
- Selver’s teachings were not limited to a specific profession or field, making her work accessible to people from all walks of life.
- She continued to teach and share her knowledge well into her 90s, showing her dedication and passion for her work.
Takeaways
- Charlotte Selver’s career highlights the importance of being open to new ideas and approaches, even in established fields.
- Her emphasis on sensory awareness and self-discovery can be applied to various aspects of life, including personal growth, creativity, and relationships.
- Selver’s legacy lives on through the numerous teachers she trained and the continued practice of sensory awareness around the world.