Non-Linear Movement Method (NLMM)

The Non-Linear Movement Method® (NLMM) is a powerful embodiment practice that will bring you back into your body.

This practice is about intimacy with self and learning the language of your inner world & your body.

Through nonlinear movement, we learn:

+ to become more sensitive to sensation in the body

+ to develop more capacity for pleasure

+ to allow the body's natural genius to support us to release tension patterns

The Non-Linear Movement Method® (NLMM) is a powerful somatic method with many deep, powerful applications:

1. Smooths out the nervous system

The demands of modern life create stress and tension in the body and an overactive mind. The NLMM encourages an identifying and unwinding of the patterns of contraction and through gentle, non-force movements relieves the bodily tension and underlying mental loops. The result is a systematic, self-guided unburdening of the nervous system.

2. Processes and identifies emotions

As the body unwinds and the mind relaxes its pressured pace the emotions associated with these patterns become apparent and are being let go of. You can note recurring emotional loops for further processing and at the same time allow emotions to simply rise and release.

3. Awakens erotic energy and sensual sensation

As tension, contraction, and emotion are being released the body becomes sensitized and we are able to feel deeper. One of the marked results of this sensitization is an ability to feel increased pleasure and well-being. Participants report an increased ability to connect through their body, both with themselves and others.

4. Releases trauma patterns into flow

One of the results of traumatic experience (fresh and old alike) is “freeze”, a state in which body, mind and emotions are stuck in a state of numbness. Often “freeze” is falsely perceived as a feeling of “calm/nothing”, which results in an inability to release the experience and ease the bodily patterns. The NLMM facilitates a continued movement, which gently opens the freeze pattern and allows for recognition and release of the underlying bodily and emotional patterns.

5. Unites mind and body in intimacy with physical sensation

Through continued engagement with the release of contraction and facilitation of emotional awareness the ingrained patterns become apparent and less pronounced. Over time physical sensation can be engaged with and the acceptance and tolerance of all sensation increases. Intimacy with whatever is present is possible.

6. Creates high bodily responsiveness

NLMM educates the body how to release and process contractions, stress, and emotional tension. The body becomes highly attuned to all sensations and can note, react or release fluidly without having to attend to the traumatic or suppressed backlog.

7. Opens access to bodily wisdom

By putting emphasis on movement and circumventing the analytical mind and loops of tense thinking the natural intelligence of our bodies is accessed. Through gentle guidance, the mechanisms of “freeze” and refusal to feel are being loosened and bodily wisdom can create the necessary actions and releases.

HOW DOES THIS WORK?

NLMM is facilitated on a mat or blanket. Participants dress similar to a Yoga or Dance Class, in comfortable, non-restrictive clothing.

Classes are hosted on Zoom so you can practice in the comfort of your own space. You can have your camera off so you can engage with your own processes without being observed.

The method can be practiced at any age, fitness level, and mobility. The movements are designed to be self-regulating and can be done in any position, including laying down.

NLMM® method was developed by Michaela Boehm over the past 2 decades of instruction and practice and is rooted in her early training in a Kashmiri Shakta Tradition and fused with her extensive expertise in working with trauma, emotional closures, and physical contractions in her clients and students; as well as in implementing this technique in her own practice.

In recent years Steve James refined and clarified the method, added original material, and contributed significantly to formatting it for educational delivery.

*NLMM is not a substitute for therapy or medical treatment. If you have a history of trauma, mental health issues or medical conditions, please consult your physician or mental health care practitioner to determine if somatic movement modalities are appropriate for you.*