Bodynamic Conference –
Psychology of Embodiment

Istanbul, Turkey
Oct 11 -13, 2024

Welcome to the inaugural Bodynamic Conference in Istanbul, Turkey!

We are thrilled to introduce an extraordinary conference featuring some of the foremost experts in the fields of somatic psychology, child development, and body psychotherapy. Our aim is to provide a unique and enriching experience.

At this conference, you will have the opportunity to engage with our esteemed keynote speakers. The event will encompass engaging workshops, exciting side events, and an illuminating panel discussion featuring all our distinguished speakers.

Keynote presentations will be conducted in English, with the added convenience of live Turkish language translation available through headphones. Additionally, some of our side events will also be translated into Turkish.

Your ticket includes access to a delicious lunch meal and refreshing coffee breaks, ensuring that you have the sustenance you need to fully immerse yourself in this enlightening event.

Choosing Istanbul as our venue holds significant meaning. In an increasingly divided world with rising international conflicts, Bodynamic stands for fostering mutual connection and preserving human dignity. Istanbul, once known as Constantinople, serves as the perfect backdrop for our gathering.

This historic city, built to unite the world, uniquely spans two continents—Europe and Asia. It is a living testament to the power of bridging divides and bringing people together.

We sincerely hope that you will join us in Istanbul, not only to exchange knowledge about the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit but also to rekindle old friendships and forge new ones throughout this remarkable conference.

Let’s come together in this vibrant, global city to create a truly unforgettable experience.

Keynote Speakers:

Lisbeth Marcher – Lisbeth is the creator of the Bodynamic System and founder of Bodynamic International, in collaboration with various colleagues. Today, Lisbeth is a part of the Bodynamic international teaching team and teaches in Denmark and around the world. Lisbeth has authored and co-authored several articles and books throughout the years, including her latest book, “Body Encyclopedia: A Guide to the Psychological Functions of the Muscular System.”

Edward Tronick PhD – Dr.Tronick is a world renown developmental and clinical psychologist. He is a Professor of Psychiatry and Pediatrics at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School. Formerly, he was an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and the University Distinguished Professor at UMass Boston. Dr. Tronick has worked on research for many years and is well-known for his publications and video recordings of “The Still Face Experiment.” Lately, his work has been featured in the Netflix series “Babies.” Dr. Tronick has published numerous articles and books, including the book “The Neurobehavioral and Social-Emotional Development of Infants and Children.”

Raja Selvam PhD – Raja is the developer of Integral Somatic Psychology™ (ISP™), an effective somatic therapy that helps clients achieve optimal mental health by fully embodying their emotions. Raja is a clinical psychologist, and his background includes many years of training and teaching in various body-oriented systems such as Reichian Therapy, Bioenergetic Analysis, Bodynamic psychotherapy, and Somatic Experiencing. Raja has published several articles and books throughout the years, and his latest book, “The Practice of Embodying Emotions: A Guide for Improving Cognitive, Emotional, and Behavioral Outcomes,” can be found in bookstores and on Amazon.

Ian McNaughton MBA, PhD, FEA, SEP – Ian has been a teacher and practitioner of trauma resolution, mind-body, and family systems psychotherapy for 50 years and is a Bodynamic Analyst and trainer. He has worked with Somatic Experiencing since the early 70s and is Levine Legacy faculty with the Ergos Institute of Somatic Education. His practice includes a high percentage of executives, medical practitioners, therapists, and others in the helping professions, both for psychotherapy and supervision. He maintains an ongoing training group for clinical practitioners, as well as delivering public workshops for helping professionals. Ian is also an author, and his publications include “Embodying the Mind and Minding the Body” and “Body, Breath, and Consciousness: A Somatic Anthology.”

Ditte Marcher – Ditte is the daughter of the founder of Bodynamic, Lisbeth Marcher. Ditte has co-developed the Bodynamic systems approach to working with shock trauma. For many years, she has specialized in working internationally with conflict resolution and crisis support. Today, Ditte mostly works with teaching, supervising teachers, and leading workshops. She is the co-author of several articles and books, including the book “Resources in Coping with Shock” with Merete Holm Brantbjerg.

Kim Barthel – Kim works internationally with workshops and public speaking in several areas, including trauma and mental health. Kim also works as a clinician with a private practice since 1989. Kim is a registered Occupational Therapist in British Columbia, Ontario, and the United States. As an author, Kim co-authored the Canadian National Best-Seller “Conversations with a Rattlesnake: Raw and Honest Reflections on Healing and Trauma” with Theo Fleury in 2014.

Siegmar Gerken – With an extensive background in psychology, education, and anthropology, has dedicated his career to the interdisciplinary integration of psychosomatic processes across various domains such as psychology, spirituality, environmental and eco-psychology, and the arts. His journey, enriched by significant influences including John C. Pierrakos, Jiddu Krishnamurti, David Bohm, and Zen practices, has led him to teach globally, focusing on the interconnectedness of body, emotions, mind, will, and consciousness. Gerken’s work extends into trauma-informed change management, pioneering research in the human energy field, and the establishment of the Core Evolution® and CoreSoma® approaches.

We are excited to announce a special Dinner and Dance event with live music as part of our upcoming conference, details of which will be revealed in August. This exclusive evening is an optional addition to the conference experience, available for a separate fee. Stay tuned for more information, and we hope you join us for a memorable night of enjoyment and networking!

Practical Details:

Location: Istanbul, Turkey

Venue: The Green Park Pendik Hotel & Convention Center

Address: Kaynarca, Erol Kaya Cd No:204, 34890 Pendik/İstanbul, Türkiye

Dates and times:

Oct 11, 2024, 11am – 6pm
Oct 12, 2024, 10am – 6pm
Oct 13, 2024, 10am – 6pm

Refreshments: Daily Lunch included in ticket price. As well as snacks, tea and coffee.

Maximum conference participants: 350 people

Room Bookings: If you wish to book a room at the conference hotel use the following link to make the booking: https://www.otelz.com/en/hotel/the-green-park-pendik

Purchase Tickets: