Embodied gnosis: Sensory-somatic routes in Rosicrucian thinking

Abstract

Drawing on the work of Rudolf Steiner and more contemporary esoteric and exoteric scholars of Rosicrucianism, this article considers how engagement of Rosicrucian ideas within somatic movement practice grants the mover expanded routes to experiences best described as embodied spirituality or embodied gnosis. Further, the article points to the social nature of embodied spirituality, whereby engagement of the subtle body within somatic practice, combined with an understanding of Rosicrucian values, has relevance for the well functioning of our human relationships and society more broadly. Examples from my personal movement in Authentic Movement practice and pedagogic practice in Laban Movement Analysis are offered as illustrations of such ideas.