The language of movement
Movement is a universal language — one that transcends words and speaks directly to the soul. Just like verbal language, movement is a system of communication with distinct elements that convey meaning, express identity, and reveal the unseen parts of a person’s inner world.
Below is a breakdown of the elements of language reinterpreted through the lens of movement and embodied expression:
1. Phonology → Movement Quality (The Building Blocks)
In verbal language, phonology refers to the sounds that form words. In movement, this corresponds to movement quality — the foundational elements that give movement its tone and texture.
Examples of Movement Qualities:
Flowing vs. Staccato (smooth vs. sharp)
Light vs. Heavy (effortless vs. grounded)
Bound vs. Free (controlled vs. liberated)
These qualities shape the emotional tone of a movement, just as sound shapes the tone of a spoken sentence.
Reflection:
Ask yourself, "What is the quality of my movement saying? Am I expressing peace, resistance, or freedom?"
2. Morphology → Gesture (The Smallest Meaningful Units)
In language, morphemes are the smallest units of meaning. In movement, gestures serve this role — simple, intentional movements that carry symbolic meaning.
Examples of Gestures:
A hand placed over the heart → love, sincerity, or truth
Arms reaching outward → longing, connection, or hope
A bowing motion → humility, reverence, or submission
Reflection:
Each gesture is like a word in the vocabulary of your body. What story are your gestures telling?
3. Syntax → Movement Phrasing (How Movements Connect)
In language, syntax is the arrangement of words to form sentences. In movement, this is known as phrasing — the way individual movements flow together to create meaningful sequences.
Examples of Movement Phrases:
Circular phrasing can symbolize wholeness, eternity, or cycles of life.
Linear phrasing may suggest progress, direction, or a journey.
Interrupted phrasing can express struggle, resistance, or change.
Reflection:
Consider how your movements are structured. Do they flow naturally, or do they feel disjointed? What message does this convey?
4. Semantics → Embodied Meaning (The Message Behind the Movement)
In language, semantics focuses on meaning. In movement, it refers to the intention behind each gesture or phrase — the emotional and spiritual message you’re conveying through your body.
Questions to Explore Embodied Meaning:
What emotions are driving my movements?
What deeper truths about my identity, journey, or purpose are being expressed?
Is my movement aligned with the message I want to share?
Reflection:
Movement becomes powerful when it is intentional and rooted in meaning, just as words become powerful when spoken with purpose.
5. Pragmatics → Context and Interpretation (The Social Use of Movement)
Pragmatics is about how language is used in real-life situations. In movement, this relates to how your audience or partner interprets your movements based on context and cultural norms.
Considerations for Pragmatics in Movement:
Cultural Meaning – A movement that is welcoming in one culture may be offensive in another.
Personal Meaning – Your personal experience will shape how you interpret certain movements.
Spiritual Meaning – Movements can carry spiritual significance and revelation when led by the Holy Spirit.
Reflection:
Think about your audience. How might they interpret what I am expressing through movement? Am I considering their cultural, emotional, and spiritual lens?
6. Lexicon → Movement Vocabulary (The Range of Your Expression)
In language, a lexicon is the set of words and expressions a person knows. In movement, your movement vocabulary consists of the range of gestures, postures, and styles you are able to embody.
Building a Movement Vocabulary:
Practice a variety of movement styles (ballet, hip-hop, contemporary, etc.).
Explore personal gestures that feel authentic to your own journey.
Expand your expressive range by exploring movements outside your comfort zone.
Reflection:
A rich movement vocabulary allows you to express nuanced emotions and complex ideas. Am I expanding my movement vocabulary to reflect the depth of my inner man?
7. Orthography → Choreographic Structure (Writing Movement)
Orthography refers to writing systems in language. In dance and movement, this can be interpreted as choreographic structure — the way movements are recorded, organized, and remembered.
Examples of Choreographic Structure:
Narrative Structure – Telling a story through movement.
Abstract Structure – Conveying ideas or emotions without a clear narrative.
Improvisational Structure – Allowing movement to unfold spontaneously.
Reflection:
How are you documenting your movement practice? Are you intentional about the structure of your choreography, or do you allow the Spirit to guide you in the moment?
8. Discourse → Movement as a Conversation (Communicating Beyond Words)
In language, discourse refers to extended communication through conversations, essays, or speeches. In movement, it refers to the ongoing conversation between your body and the audience — or between you and God.
Movement as Dialogue:
Inward Conversation – Movement as a way to dialogue with yourself and your inner man.
Upward Conversation – Movement as a form of worship and prayer.
Outward Conversation – Movement as a way to communicate with your audience.
Reflection:
Consider movement as a sacred conversation. Are my movements expressing my truth? Am I allowing God to speak through my body?
Final Thoughts: Movement as a Divine Language
Your body is a living letter, written by the Creator. When you move with intention, you are engaging in a conversation that transcends verbal language. Your movement has the power to bring healing, empowerment, and spiritual awakening — both to yourself and to others.
Remember that movement is prophecy. It reveals hidden truths, deep emotions, and spiritual revelations. Just as the Holy Spirit inspires speech, He can inspire movement, creating a powerful language of the soul that speaks directly to the hearts of those around you.
