26isfam064 10.3205/26isfam064 urn:nbn:de:0183-26isfam0648 Meeting Abstract Chyle-Silvestr Chyle-Silvestr Fabian F

SRH University Heidelberg

author German Medical Science GMS Publishing House

Düsseldorf

610 20260612 engl This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License. Dieser Artikel ist ein Open-Access-Artikel und steht unter den Lizenzbedingungen der Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License (Namensnennung). M0652 064 International Society for Arts and Medicine The Healing Arts – Forging Alliances of Arts & Medicine Presentation Abstracts Berlin 20260618 20260620 26isfam064 TextBackground: DanceAbility is a method of dance improvisation founded in 1987 by Alito Alessi and rooted in principles of postmodern dance. While often associated with wellbeing and inclusion, DanceAbility is explicitly defined as an artistic rather than therapeutic practice. It enables creative movement exploration in mixed-ability settings, where dance material emerges from the abilities and experiences present within the group. By working with the “common denominator” of existing capacities rather than perceived limitations, the method ensures that no participant is excluded from the artistic process. In this way, DanceAbility supports self-empowerment and enables individuals to participate fully in creative decision-making while respecting personal limits.Objectives:to introduce key methodological tools of DanceAbility, including touch, movement resonance, movement translation, and the satellite support system;to explore the health-promoting aspects of facilitating inclusive dance experiences, particularly in digital settings.Methods: The research is based on qualitative interviews with international DanceAbility teachers and the analysis of promising practices and selected case examples from inclusive dance contexts.Results: Findings suggest that DanceAbility’s artistic framework and improvisational structures create accessible entry points into movement and creativity for diverse participants. The practice can foster experiences of reconnection for individuals and communities affected by marginalization, exclusion, or trauma.Conclusion: As a co-creative and collective art form, dance offers strong potential to rebuild embodied awareness and social connection. DanceAbility demonstrates how an artistic practice can help overcome bodily disconnection, dissociation, and states of bodily immobility, thereby strengthening community resilience and wellbeing. 0 0 0 0