About the forum

About:

My name is Dalia Zwick, and I am a physical therapist with an academic journey that began with a BSc in PT and  MS in Exercise Physiology, culminating in an advanced PhD in Pathokinesiology from the New York University - Physical Therapy Program. Beyond the formalities of academia, I pursued continuing education courses in the US, India, and even traveled numerous times to the UK to study and be certified in Posture Care.  My travels to India and Israel enhanced my understanding of the Iyengar Yoga therapeutic approach of Iyengar Yogaand how to integrate it into Physical Therapy,  It profoundly influenced my understanding of posture, movement, and holistic well-being.

I am writing about my background, trying not to sound self-promoting, but to tell you that after so many years and such a level of education, I only now understand the role of a physical therapist work better. 

Drawing from 55 years of practice and education, my approach to therapy and life has been deeply shaped by the wisdom of Karl Popper. His reminder that no theory is absolute—"Whenever a theory appears to you as the only possible one, take this as a sign that you have neither understood the theory nor the problem which it was intended to solve"—echoes in my perspective. It is with humility that I embrace his additional insight: "I may be wrong, and you may be right, and by an effort, we may get nearer to the truth." These words have served as a compass, guiding my journey as a practitioner, teacher, and lifelong learner.

Blending Science, Art, and Therapy

Approximately 10 yrs ago, I adopted a new hobby that further enriched my understanding of human movement and expression: sketching. My drawings focus on postures and gestures, often inspired by the individuals referred to PT. This artistic practice has transformed how I approach therapy, enabling me to integrate visual thinking into my work. Through sketching, I have discovered new ways to illustrate and analyze the human body, its postures, and its movement patterns.

This fusion of art and science has opened new avenues in my understanding of posture and its implications for individuals with autism. Sketching has not only sharpened my observational skills but also deepened my appreciation for the subtle nuances of body language and movement.

Insights into Posture and Autism

Posture is more than just the way one stands or sits; it is a reflection of one's physical, emotional, and neurological state. For individuals with autism, posture and gesture often carry layers of meaning and complexity. My work seeks to unravel these layers, combining my clinical expertise with the insights gained from my art practice.

Understanding posture in the context of autism requires a multidisciplinary approach, encompassing biomechanics, sensory processing, and communication. Sketching has allowed me to convey these intricate relationships visually, making them more accessible to caregivers, educators, and therapists. By translating complex concepts into clear illustrations, I aim to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Sharing Knowledge

Through this platform, I hope to share my journey and the lessons I have learned along the way. From my early days as a student to my current explorations as a physical therapist and artist, my goal is to inspire others to view posture and movement through a broader lens. Whether you are a fellow practitioner, a caregiver, or simply someone intrigued by the interplay of science and art, I invite you to join me in this exploration.

In the coming sections of this webpage, I will delve deeper into specific topics, including:

•  The role of Posture and Posture Care in physical therapy and its significance for individuals with autism.

•  How Iyengar Yoga has informed my understanding of alignment and balance.

•  Examples of my sketches and how they illustrate key principles of posture and movement.

•  Practical tips for applying these concepts in everyday life and therapeutic settings.

Conclusion

As I continue to explore the intersections of posture, autism, and art, I remain guided by the humility and curiosity that Karl Popper so eloquently articulated. Through this webpage, I hope to share not only my knowledge but also my passion for uncovering the truths hidden within the complexities of the human body. Together, let us embark on a journey toward greater understanding and connection.