H.U.M.A.N. Course Module 2 The Gamma Motor System: How Muscles Learn: Understanding Development, Habits, and Blocks

The elements of the gamma motor system–muscle spindles, Golgi tendon organs, the brainstem, spinal cord, and their reflex connections–are our neural means of motor learning and the organization of all our muscular patterns.  An insight into their operations is essential to understanding the processes that underlie coordinated strength and flexibility and stubborn restrictions that inhibit our movements. Approximately 90% of the central nervous system’s activity is involved one way or another in initiating, monitoring and regulating posture and movement.  Much of this occurs below the level of our awareness.  Bringing into consciousness this vast amount of neuromuscular activity and its intimate connections with our physical, cognitive and emotional lives opens many new doors to ourselves, and empowers us to effect many changes in our feelings, our ideas and our habits, and to overcome the limitations in our lives.

This weekend will focus on:

• Neuro-anatomy of the gamma system–muscle spindles, Golgi tendon organs, reflex connections in the spinal cord, brainstem and cerebellum organization


• The processes of motor learning and movement


• Understanding the nature of skills, habits and restrictions in our muscular development


• Isometric movements to map and master muscle-groups


• Explorations of deep/core strength vs. superficial strength in movement


• Somatic awareness practices to refine healthy feedback loops during movement

 Instructors Deane Juhan and Nicole Becker

*wheelchair accessible. Located on 2nd floor mezanine level above Trader Joes.  Stairs/elevators accessible on 1st floor in breezway between Trader Joes and adjacent building.