We dance what we remember : memory in perceiving and performing contemporary dance

Dance presents a challenge for cognitive psychologists. The subject matter of cognitive psychology is the study of mental processes, and until quite recently, those processes have been examined using materials that are largely static, visual, and verbal. Dance, by contrast, unfolds in time and space, is kinesthetic and motoric, and is often nonverbal yet expressive and communicative. In order for us to more fully understand it, therefore, the phenomenon of dance demands a cognitive account that addresses the dynamic and temporal nature of dance that is embodied—in other words, a cognitive account of mental processes that are grounded in action. While cognitive psychology has been slow to recognize this, the universal human capacity to dance, express, feel, and connect through culturally patterned movement is the epitome of cognition that is grounded in the body and in action.