Reclaiming Ancestral Knowledge through Eco-Somatics in the Mediterranean
This lecture presents research on Eco-Somatics, a field that cultivates ancestral technologies of embodied belonging by fostering deep experiential relationships with nature. The focus is on the Mediterranean region, exploring pre-Christian rituals and women’s wisdom—often erased or suppressed—that connect human bodies to the land and its species. Through practices such as ritualistic movement, herbalism, and seasonal ceremonies, these traditions offer profound insights into humanity’s relationship with the earth.
The research involves the creation of a living archive of Mediterranean recipes and rituals, reinterpreted for contemporary contexts. This archive seeks to revitalize ancient ecological knowledge, emphasizing the role of women, healers, and witches who historically preserved this wisdom. Eco-Somatic practices encourage participants to reconnect to the rhythms of the natural world, attuning themselves to the elements, plants, and animals that sustain life.
The lecture situates this research within the broader framework of Embodied Ecology, illustrating how ancient practices offer pathways for healing, resilience, and community-building. It also highlights how contemporary eco-somatic practices can help restore a sense of belonging to both internal and external environments, bridging ancestral knowledge with contemporary ecological challenges.
Smirna Kulenovic
Multidisciplinary artist and activist, Smirna’s work spans contemporary performance, theatre, and dance, with notable contributions that explore the intersection of art, ecology, and embodied memory.
