An embodied life is an experience of self, rooted in wholeness and connection. It includes our being, our doing, and everything that lies in between. It is a way of living that feels organically authentic, dissolving contradictions and allowing space for growth.

In my work, I support this unfolding through movement, somatic awareness, mindfulness, meditation, reflection, rest, ritual, connection, and community. Combined with my therapeutic training and years of experience, these practices create a grounded and supportive space for you to explore what embodiment might mean in your own life — not as a fixed concept, but as a lived, evolving relationship with yourself and the world around you.

This journey can take place in workshops, ongoing classes, one-to-one sessions, or in nature. I also curate personalised combinations for those who prefer a more tailored approach.
I work online, in studio, and outdoors, depending on what best supports the process.

You are welcome to explore the options throughout the site or get in touch.

About Laura

Laura O’Brien, M.A., is a registered Somatic Movement Therapist, an ISMETA-accredited practitioner, and a movement facilitator with over 18 years of dedicated study and practice in the field of embodiment.

Her background includes extensive training in Amerta Movement with Suprapto Suryadarmo across Europe and Asia, as well as a three-year professional training with Joan Davis (Origins), integrating:

• Embryology
  
  

• Developmental Movement
  
  

• Body-Mind Centering®
  
  

• Craniosacral Therapy
  
  

• Attachment Theory
  
  

• Authentic Movement
  
  

• Somatic Touch
  
  

• Psychotherapy principles

• Somatic Art Practice®
  
  

Laura is also completing further training as a MindBody Somatic Coach, expanding her interdisciplinary approach.

Her work supports individuals and groups in developing deeper body awareness, nervous system regulation, creativity, and presence. Laura’s approach is grounded, inclusive, and relational — offering a safe and attuned space for exploration, healing, expression, and transformation through embodied practice.

Training & Professional Development

Ongoing Training

• MindBody Somatic Coach

Professional Studies & Certifications

• Body-Mind Centering® – online training with Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen (2020–2023)

• Community Development & Leadership Certificate (2020–2022)

• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Irish Mindfulness Institute (2018)

• Move Into Life Certified Practitioner, ongoing study since 2004 (Sandra Reeve)

Additional Experience & Education

• Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching & Learning, Maynooth University (2024)

• Trauma-Informed Care Certificate, Maynooth University (2024)

• M.A. in the Study of Contemporary Religions, University College Cork (2017); Research interests: culture, dance and spirituality, ritual, meaning-making

• Certificate in Counselling Skills (UCC)

• Postgraduate Diploma in Integrative Psychotherapy (UCC)

• Yoga & Contemporary Yoga Teacher Training

• Associate Member of Dance Ireland (profile: danceireland.ie/members/directory/laura-obrien)

• Somatic Art Practice (2024)

Voices

What people say about embodied life

"I find Laura's work so peaceful, her holding of space offers freedom to explore and express"

2025

"Beautifully held class. I dropped deeply into my body which was so relaxing and nourishing"

Workshop participant

2025

Workshop participant

"Laura's work gave me the pleasure to discover again why I like to move and dance. Her teaching is mindful and encouraging..."

Outdoor workshop participant

2024