Prevention of movement disorders based on somatic abstractions of human movement: Principles, computation and reflection

In this article, we describe a framework for creating technology-based experiential systems rooted in somatic movement education for health and well-being applications. The proposed framework starts with principles derived from somatic modalities in general, and three of the major somatic theories in particular: The Alexander Technique™, The Feldenkrais Method™ and Body-Mind Centering®. In building such a system, we consider ways to translate concepts of expanded motor-sensory awareness, function and ease of movement into measurable attributes for action quality, with simple-to-use and easily available sensing/feedback technology. Inspired by the pioneering work of F. P. Jones, a student of F. M. Alexander, whose research looked ‘to scientifically demonstrate the physiological mechanisms underlying its principles’, our framework seeks to build upon this work by leveraging advances in current technologies for motion capture that enable home-based deployment (KINECT, cell phone accelerometers, etc.), as well as advances in pattern classification technologies for distinguishing actions based on attributes that correlate to subjective, kinaesthetic responses. The framework is intended to provide a foundation in the implementation of a real-time, media-based, interactive experiential system. As well, it is intended to engage communities of somatic practitioners, theorists and technologists in extending the scope of the research and development of new applications.