Shelley Poovey discovered BodyTalk as an effective way to treat her dance injuries and scoliosis. She has been practicing BodyTalk since 2008, and has completed all of the advanced BodyTalk courses. Her passion for the psychology started as a research scientist in visual perception where she contributed to research creating significant breakthroughs in the fields of biomedicine and artificial intelligence. That passion continues within the context of her practice by focusing on helping the brain and body work together to manage stress and develop healthier habits. She has a degree in Psychology from UNC Chapel Hill with a focus in Cognitive Science and Anthropology and holds advanced certifications in Pilates and Gyrotonic. She spent a year in acupuncture school learning the principles of chinese medicine and bodywork. Shelley is the New York City coordinator of the education program for BodyTalk, and organizes and coaches the monthly study groups. BodyTalk helps bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and the art of healing by integrating multiple healing systems into one experience which illuminates imbalances across many layers. Each session is completely unique and works with the body’s own intuitive sense of what it needs, bringing about a feeling of deeper connection to the process of life.
Interview with Shelley Poovey:
With 20 years of experience, Shelley Poovey focuses on the restorative aspects of both BodyTalk and Pilates with her clients. “BodyTalk and Pilates are not treatment modalities. Instead, they work at restoring overall wellness and vitality by reducing stress on physical, psychological, emotional, and energetic levels.” When asked to describe her practices, Shelley said, “Both are true mind-body systems which means they focus on strengthening the nervous system’s communication through physiological processes like circulation, digestion and musculoskeletal coordination. Once these systems are more coordinated with each other, the body can come out of any chronic stress patterns and can handle new challenges with more easily.” The results are evident in her clients’ feedback. “After a session, people will often say they feel more like themselves and ready for the day. It is very rewarding to help people with stress management and watch them overcome their challenges and become more successful at achieving their goals.” When addressing specific issues such as chronic pain, Shelley describes the holistic system of pain management she applies to her clients. “Most of us are sleep deprived and undernourished, and need to look at adjusting not only the physical areas that are experiencing pain, but also the underlying dynamics of stress so that when the pain goes away, it is less likely to return. A holistic approach can provide you support through that experience.” The Center of integrative Practices provides a space for Shelley to practice her holistic approach to healing in a supportive environment. “The Center is a sanctuary. I spend all day hearing our patients say how they come early for their appointments just to unwind and escape the chaos of the city. They know that they are coming to a place that has their best interests in mind, and that they can trust their practitioners to care for them and support them through the challenges they are facing.”