Steve James

Steve James travels internationally teaching somatic practices, meditation, as well as leading explorations in contemplative, mystic, & relational realms. Known for his direct, grounded approach and his dedication to first-hand research he has extensive experience in elite athletic performance, contemplative and spiritual disciplines, the arts, extreme outdoor survival, and human behaviour. Somatics Steve’s background in somatic practices began with dedicated martial arts and physical training from the age of 5. A member of the Scottish Fencing team in his teens, as an elite athlete he engaged in high-level competition and peak athletic performance strategies. He went on to study with and graduate as a teacher under yoga master Godfrey Devereux, and continues to deepen his education in yoga, qigong, and physical performance. In 2016 Steve released ‘The Movement Koan Method®’ DVD – a 72minute video presentation of his movement method, synthesising 25 years of experience in the movement arts to blend joint-nourishing movement with body-based mindfulness. Incorporating cutting edge neuroplasticity techniques in a straight-forward, accessible approach. Contemplative and Spiritual Disciplines Through a chance encounter at a writing group, after winning a young writer’s award for his first novel at 14, Steve met and was later apprenticed to a Christian mystic from the Celtic tradition of Christianity, resulting in multiple years of close personal instruction in various forms of prayer, contemplation, writing, textual study, and service. Steve continued his contemplative studies with a long-time meditation practice, silent retreats, and consistent study into theology, philosophy, and world mysticism. Steve currently studies with meditation teacher Shinzen Young. Steve’s work in the arts as a session guitarist and musical director included international touring with multiple #1 best-selling pop artists and extensive film, TV, and studio recording work. The Mind Steve’s in-field, practical research approach has seen him explore the limits of physical and psychological performance in extreme outdoor survival trainings and expeditions. Including advanced survival courses in Europe (notably a seven-day, no food, minimal equipment advanced winter survival scenario). Most recently an 11-day arctic survival expedition in the boreal forests of Sweden at daytime temperatures of -24°C, using the cold-weather survival strategies utilised by the British and Swedish military and the Sami people including arctic shelter techniques (no tents), winter navigation, and extreme cold weather techniques. Steve’s unique range of experiences and deep understanding of human behaviour, elite performance, spirituality, and interpersonal relationships is highly sought after by leading figures at the highest levels of the arts, entertainment, and business. In his private client practice he specialises in the unique interpersonal and strategic challenges faced by very successful and highly visible individuals. Ongoing clients include Oscar-winning actors, multi Grammy winning musicians, CEO’s, and multi-billion dollar fund managers. In addition to private client work and international public workshops, Steve has recently designed ground-breaking teacher training programs with Michaela Boehm. These industry firsts include comprehensive training in the area of intimacy and relationships, coaching skills, and the original Non-Linear Movement Method®.