Elyse Shafarman
Elyse Shafarman, M.A., AmSAT Certified Alexander Technique Teacher
Ms. Shafarman is faculty at American Conservatory Theater’s MFA program, Berkeley Rep School of Theater and San Francisco State University’s Holistic Health Department. In addition, she has a private Alexander Technique practice in San Francisco and Berkeley.
Ms. Shafarman holds a Master’s degree in Physiological Psychology (2003), where she studied the scientific underpinnings of the mind-body connection, and conducted original research showing Alexander Technique reduced muscle tension for computer users. She completed her 1600 hr Alexander Teacher training with Frank Ottiwell at the Alexander Training Institute of San Francisco (2003), and assisted Ottiwell’s classes for actors at American Conservatory Theater for many years.
Ms. Shafarman’s background as a professional modern dancer and training in Psychology, Yoga (RYT 200), and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction influence her approach to teaching. She writes regularly about mind-body connections on her blog and dances every day.
She has taught Alexander Technique workshops throughout the Bay Area at diverse venues including Elephant Pharmacy, The French American International High School, Jeffrey Bihr Studio, The Osher Center, Pricewaterhouse Coopers and The San Francisco Public Library.
Ms. Shafarman has pursued advance training in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (60 hr Teacher Training Practicum), Reembody Method (200 hr apprentice program), Vinyasa Yoga (200 hr teacher training) & Svaroopa Yoga (50 hr). She has studied allied somatic modalities including Body-Mind Centering, Feldenkrais, Gyrotonics, Middendorf Breath Pilates, Somatic Experiencing Work, and personal training. Her knowledge of movement is rounded out by a lifetime on the dance floor, including Ballet and Modern, Afro Haitian, Afro Cuban, Salsa, Swing and Argentine Tango.
Philosophy
Revealing the power of the mind to free the body, and the intelligence of the body to free the mind is my passion. People of all ages and vocations deserve joy, freedom and ease in movement.
