Mission of the Company is Empowerment
We strive to empower people in their rehabilitation process following illness, injury, or trauma,
focusing on spinal cord injuries and burnout.
Our vision is to develop a comprehensive inventory of evidence–based
techniques and methods that support rehabilitation, personal empowerment, and overall well-being.
We aim to use our expertise to empower individuals facing challenging circumstanes, helping them shift their focus
from victim hood to proactive, solution oriented thinking.
We believe that a single conscious experience gives opportunity to others. Why? Because is possible!
Our goal is to provide easy access to credible tools through an AI library and APP.
My Story
FROM TWO-TIME TETRAPLEGIC TO WALKING AND DANCING QUEEN
WHAT SEEMED IMPOSSIBLE BECAME REALITY!
BACKGROUND
Former dance teacher and dance company owner
director of first Academy of Dance in Slovenia
2005: CAR ACCIDENT – Spastic tetraparesis
2006: 1st OP on level C5-6
2017: 2nd OP – Reconstruction of C4-7
2017: 3rd OP due to complications – became 100% Tetraplegic
"MY OWN EXPERIENCE GIVES OPPORTUNITY TO OTHERS"
My journey began in 2005 when I became spastic tetraplegic due to a car accident. It
took me almost three years to fully recover and return to normal life.
Reconstruction of the original injury in 2017 resulted in total 100% tetraplegia.
At that moment, when I was told that I became a tetraplegic,
my personal goal was to walk!
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation after 1st and 3rd surgery was divided into 3 stages: early, intermediate and late: on-going.
I was a tetraplegic patient, a former dance teacher, who reported major
improvement in rehabilitation with support of music and dance techniques.
Funny fact was that I danced before I walked. Why?
Because with the brain recalling dance patterns even when motor functions were
impaired. The brain’s vision of walking and dancing became reality, triggering
biochemical responses that supported my recovery.
FIRST CHOREOGRAPHY AND FIRST SOLO DANCE BEFORE WALKING
My first choreography 18th day after surgery – after the formation of 100% tetraplegia. You can see how neurologic music therapy technique RAS (Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation) is naturally done with my body. According to my condition rhytmic movements are done.
With closed eyes I tried to catch a beat, do
a move in a rhytm.
At the end you can hear my friends cheering for me!
It was silly and funny, but I was tottaly hapy with it!
My first solo dance 8th week after surgery. It was 2 weeks after I did my first step and was able to stand in standing frame for 8 minutes on my own. I could stood alone in the standing frame for such a short time on my own but my body was too weak to be able to walk already. Too many simultaneous features to perform was still quite demanding for me at that time. But it was a beginning
of my independent verticalization and the beginning of walk. I was so proud here and full of hope for the future!
Now I am back to normal life. I am almost independent and back to my own life with some alternations. I am trying to improve and maximize independence in ADLs and mobility, return to work and community, enhance quality of life and psychological well-being, prevent long-term
complications (osteoporosis, scoliosis), maintain and encourage fitness and recreational activity.
Currently I am walking 4000-7000 steps/day, independent with house chores (cooking, laundry, oth…),
I can walk a dog, perform therapeutic yoga, breathing techniques, dancing and others.
WINGS FOR LIFE WORLD RUN
In 2018 1 year after the formation of tetraplegia and 8 months since I walked, I participate in Wings for Life World Run for the first time.
At that period of time, it was really challenging and difficult for me, but I was determine to go and was so grateful to have that option that I can walk (not run) for those who can’t.
With the support of two athletes, I walked 1.4 km, which was an exceptional achievement for me, as during that period I was able to walk between 800 m and 1,000 m, partially independently and partially with the aid of a walker.
In 2019, 2 years after the formation of tetraplegia and 20 months since I walked, I participated in the race again and achieved an excellent result for me, considering my difficulties with spasticity and temperature regulation, as I managed to walk 2 km that year.
SOME SCIENTIFIC FACTS
DANCE AND NEUROPLASTICITY
The neurological basis of music has been thoroughly researched, however, there
is a research gap when it comes to the topic of dance and neuroplasticity.
When listening to music, the brain constantly generates predictions based on an
underlying model and recent research suggests
that the same might be true for dancing.
What do we know is that before dancing, the nervous system prepares for the
movements by processing the external stimuli such as music and prepares the
body in that way music can drive our body to move.
MUSIC AND DANCE IN NEUROREHABILITATION
Dance incorporates coordinated, rhythmic movements and engages multiple cognitive functions, including memory, attention, and executive processes. This multifaceted engagement makes dance a valuable model for learning, memory, and sensorimotor integration. Research highlights its potential in neurological therapy and rehabilitation, suggesting that dance-based activities can enhance cognitive and motor functions, therefore supporting brain health.
NEUROLOGIC MUSIC THERAPY TECHNIQUES
While most studies focused on conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke, the findings suggest potential benefits for spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation, particularly for individuals with incomplete injuries who retain some ambulatory function. The integration of wearable technology allowed for real-time feedback and personalised therapy, enhancing the adaptability and effectiveness of RAS interventions.
How I succeeded?
With a classical treatment at first major improvements were noted in reducing
spastisity and improving flexibility, however I wasn’t still satisfied with gait and my
recovery. For me, my heart, my soul and my body was important to gave me full
support, but the healthcare system didn’t provide enough information and support I
needed, so I took matters into my own hands.
My life force, my inner fire, the drive and determination for this goal to walk and
dance again, was so strong that I searched for solutions and did a holistic approach
to my recovery. With various spectrum of approaches I combine new sciences,
western and integrative medicine, nutrition, mindset and much more.
My recovery was The Total Integration of all!
Holistic Approach
From teaching dance, I carried with me a deep internal awareness of the body – an awareness rooted in visualization and deeply intertwined with music.
Before and after the accident, I maintained a deep connection with my body, mind, heart, and emotions. I was conscious in it and I listened to my body and heard it and took it into account at every time and situation no matter what.
But the most important thing: I made an internal shift!
Moving from victimhood to empowerment. I didn’t just wait for change, I created it. I succeeded in this by digging deep – researching, exploring, learning. Through knowledge, awareness, consciousness and even understanding biochemistry,
I approached myself as a whole human being: a perfect creation of mind, body, and soul.
Because of my awareness of my body I strongly believed in it, my gut feeling and the power of my mind – that I can do it.
At least I gave it a try! I had nothing left to lose, only something to gain.
Strong will, determination, my believe when nobody believed, and support of my partner and friends mattered the most!
I succeeded!
About me
By now you know that I am a fighter, a warrior, with great spirit and passion for life and development.
I have BSc Radiology, BSc Organization of Work, Master of Science in the field of HR and management and almost 30 years of practical experience in entrepreneurship, especially in micro and small business operations.
I operate in setting visions, implementing projects from conceptual design to realization. I love working with teams, planning, motivation, and achieving set goals, help in planning and implementing the companys strategy and vision.
I am a woman who lives an entrepreneurial way of thinking, a visionary who brings visions into reality.
Now, my mission is to empower others facing similar challenges!
It is my honour and duty to share my experience with whom it need and help with it.
Lets do something amazing together!
MSc. Barbara Močan, CEO
Projects
"Dance Medicine & Science Research Symposium 2025"
Barbara was invited to present her case study at annual ‘Dance Medicine & Science Research Symposium 2025′ at the University of Wolverhampton (UK) with fellow colleagues from physiotherapy and neuroscience fields, Ms Zala Fuchs BSc, MSc MMACP Physiotherapist and Ms Mia Sara Bertović, BSc Psychology, MSc Cognitive Neuroscience.
“A Case Report: Dance and Music Impact on Rehabilitation After a Spinal Cord Injury — From 2-Time Tetraplegic to Walking and Dancing Queen“, gathered a great interest and enthusiasm of the listeners with the potential for further scientific exploration into integrative rehabilitation methods involving music, dance, and neuroplasticity.
A case report describes a tetraplegic patient who danced before walking again, with the brain recalling dance patterns even when motor functions were impaired. The brain’s vision of walking and dancing became reality, triggering biochemical responses that supported recovery.
Although studies on dance therapy for spinal cord injury (SCI) are limited, rhythmic movement therapies show promise in improving motor function, balance, and coordination.
The social aspects of dance, as well as the links between music and dance, are under-explored. So further research and case reports are needed to establish standardised protocols for SCI rehabilitation.
Send inquiry info@thetotalintegration.com to gain full access to video presentation!
"IT IS TIME TO DO A COMMON PLATFORM ON THE BASIS OF SCIENCE AND CONSCIOUSNESS EXPERIENCES
TO GIVE OPPORTUNITY TO OTHERS AND
HELP PEOPLE AROUND THE GLOBE"
Collaboration
If you are a specialist, a scientist or a researcher from physiotherapy,
rehabilitation, neuro rehabilitation, neuroscience, dance, music or other fields, please feel free to contact us and lets share our knowledge and experience.
If you are a donator, sponsor or investor please feel free to support our mission and our vision to come true for others! Help us spread our knowledge and experience to people in need and lets do something great together in better quality of every day life and well being of people and community! We would like to hear your suggestion for collaboration.
YOUR STORY
If you have a successful story of your recovery from spinal cord injury or if you are a part of community where you know someone who has done it, please connect us and help build a great community to support each other and support others who are struggling on their path of recovery. Lets create a safe place to share our experience and spread empowerment and new possibility for others too!
"We believe that miraculous and inspiring stories can make a difference and change the world!"
Lets support and empower with our experience, knowledge and expertise and
do something amazing together for
individuals, their rehabilitation, integration in society and better quality of life!
info@thetotalintegration.com
Mission of the Company is Empowerment
We strive to empower people in their rehabilitation process following illness, injury, or trauma, focusing on spinal cord injuries and burnout.
Our vision is to develop a comprehensive inventory of evidence–based
techniques and methods that support rehabilitation, personal empowerment, and overall well-being.
We aim to use our expertise to empower individuals facing challenging circumstanes, helping them shift their focus
from victim hood to proactive, solution oriented thinking.
We believe that a single conscious experience gives opportunity to others. Why? Because is possible!
Our goal is to provide easy access to credible tools through an AI library and APP.
My Story
FROM TWO-TIME TETRAPLEGIC TO WALKING AND DANCING QUEEN
WHAT SEEMED IMPOSSIBLE BECAME REALITY!
BACKGROUND
Former dance teacher and dance company owner
director of first Academy of Dance in Slovenia
2005: CAR ACCIDENT – Spastic tetraparesis
2006: 1st OP on level C5-6
2017: 2nd OP – Reconstruction of C4-7
2017: 3rd OP due to complications – became 100% Tetraplegic
"ON A BASIS OF MY OWN EXPERIENCE-GIVES OPPORTUNITY TO OTHERS"
My journey began in 2005 when I became spastic tetraplegic due to a car accident. It
took me almost three years to fully recover and return to normal life.
Reconstruction of the original injury in 2017 resulted in total 100% tetraplegia.
At that moment, when I was told that I became a tetraplegic,
my personal goal was to walk!
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation after 1st and 3rd surgery was divided into 3 stages: early, intermediate and late: cronic, on-going.
I was a tetraplegic patient, a former dance teacher, who reported major
improvement in rehabilitation with support of music and dance techniques.
Funny fact was that I danced before I walked. Why?
Because with the brain recalling dance patterns even when motor functions were
impaired. The brain’s vision of walking and dancing became reality, triggering
biochemical responses that supported my recovery.
FIRST CHOREOGRAPHY
My first choreography 18th day after surgery – after the formation of 100% tetraplegia. You can see how neurologic music therapy technique RAS (Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation) is naturally done with my body. According to my condition rhytmic movements are done.
With closed eyes I tried to catch a beat, do
a move in a rhytm.
At the end you can hear my friends cheering for me!
It was silly and funny, but I was tottaly hapy with it!
AND FIRST SOLO DANCE BEFORE WALKING
My first solo dance 8th week after surgery. It was 2 weeks after I did my first step and was able to stand in standing frame for 8 minutes on my own. I could stood alone in the standing frame for such a short time on my own but my body was too weak to be able to walk already. Too many simultaneous features to perform was still quite demanding for me at that time. But it was a beginning
of my independent verticalization and the beginning of walk. I was so proud here and full of hope for the future!
Now I am back to normal life. I am almost independent and back to my own life with some alternations. I am trying to improve and maximize independence in ADLs and mobility, return to work and community,
enhance quality of life and psychological well-being, prevent long-term
complications (osteoporosis, scoliosis), maintain and encourage fitness and recreational activity.
Currently I am walking 4000-7000 steps/day, independent with house chores (cooking, laundry, oth…),
I can walk a dog, perform therapeutic yoga, breathing techniques, dancing and others.
WINGS FOR LIFE WORLD RUN
In 2018 1 year after the formation of tetraplegia and 8 months since I walked, I participate in Wings for Life World Run for the first time.
At that period of time, it was really challenging and difficult for me, but I was determine to go and was so grateful to have that option that I can walk (not run) for those who can’t.
With the support of two athletes, I walked 1.4 km, which was an exceptional achievement for me, as during that period I was able to walk between 800 m and 1,000 m, partially independently and partially with the aid of a walker.
In 2019, 2 years after the formation of tetraplegia and 20 months since I walked, I participated in the race again and achieved an excellent result for me, considering my difficulties with spasticity and temperature regulation, as I managed to walk 2 km that year.
SOME SCIENTIFIC FACTS
DANCE AND NEUROPLASTICITY
The neurological basis of music has been thoroughly researched, however, there
is a research gap when it comes to the topic of dance and neuroplasticity.
When listening to music, the brain constantly generates predictions based on an
underlying model and recent research suggests
that the same might be true for dancing.
What do we know is that before dancing, the nervous system prepares for the
movements by processing the external stimuli such as music and prepares the
body in that way music can drive our body to move.
MUSIC AND DANCE IN NEUROREHABILITATION
Dance incorporates coordinated, rhythmic movements and engages multiple cognitive functions, including memory, attention, and executive processes. This multifaceted engagement makes dance a valuable model for learning, memory, and sensorimotor integration. Research highlights its potential in neurological therapy and rehabilitation, suggesting that dance-based activities can enhance cognitive and motor functions, therefore supporting brain health.
NEUROLOGIC MUSIC THERAPY TECHNIQUES
While most studies focused on conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke, the findings suggest potential benefits for spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation, particularly for individuals with incomplete injuries who retain some ambulatory function. The integration of wearable technology allowed for real-time feedback and personalised therapy, enhancing the adaptability and effectiveness of RAS interventions.
How I succeeded?
With a classical treatment at first major improvements were noted in reducing
spastisity and improving flexibility, however I wasn’t still satisfied with gait and my
recovery. For me, my heart, my soul and my body was important to gave me full
support, but the healthcare system didn’t provide enough information and support I
needed, so I took matters into my own hands.
My life force, my inner fire, the drive and determination for this goal to walk and
dance again, was so strong that I searched for solutions and did a holistic approach
to my recovery. With various spectrum of approaches I combine new sciences,
western and integrative medicine, nutrition, mindset and much more.
My recovery was The Total Integration of all!
Holistic Approach
From teaching dance, I carried with me a deep internal awareness of the body – an awareness rooted in visualization and deeply intertwined with music.
Before and after the accident, I maintained a deep connection with my body, mind, heart, and emotions. I was conscious in it and I listened to my body and heard it and took it into account at every time and situation no matter what.
But the most important thing: I made an internal shift!
Moving from victimhood to empowerment. I didn’t just wait for change, I created it. I succeeded in this by digging deep – researching, exploring, learning. Through knowledge, awareness, consciousness and even understanding biochemistry,
I approached myself as a whole human being: a perfect creation of mind, body, and soul.
Because of my awareness of my body I strongly believed in it, my gut feeling and the power of my mind – that I can do it.
At least I gave it a try! I had nothing left to lose, only something to gain.
Strong will, determination, my believe when nobody believed, and support of my partner and friends mattered the most!
I succeeded!
About me
By now you know that I am a fighter, a warrior, with great spirit and passion for life and development.
I have BSc Radiology, BSc Organization of Work, Master of Science in the field of HR and management and almost 30 years of practical experience in entrepreneurship, especially in micro and small business operations.
I operate in setting visions, implementing projects from conceptual design to realization. I love working with teams, planning, motivation, and achieving set goals, help in planning and implementing the companys strategy and vision.
I am a woman who lives an entrepreneurial way of thinking, a visionary who brings visions into reality.
Now, my mission is to empower others facing similar challenges!
It is my honour and duty to share my experience with whom it need and help with it.
Lets do something amazing together!
MSc. Barbara Močan, CEO
Projects
"Dance Medicine & Science Research Symposium 2025"
Barbara was invited to present her case study at annual ‘Dance Medicine & Science Research Symposium 2025′ at the University of Wolverhampton (UK) with fellow colleagues from physiotherapy and neuroscience fields, Ms Zala Fuchs BSc, MSc MMACP Physiotherapist and Ms Mia Sara Bertović, BSc Psychology, MSc Cognitive Neuroscience.
“A Case Report: Dance and Music Impact on Rehabilitation After a Spinal Cord Injury — From 2-Time Tetraplegic to Walking and Dancing Queen“, gathered a great interest and enthusiasm of the listeners with the potential for further scientific exploration into integrative rehabilitation methods involving music, dance, and neuroplasticity.
A case report describes a tetraplegic patient who danced before walking again, with the brain recalling dance patterns even when motor functions were impaired. The brain’s vision of walking and dancing became reality, triggering biochemical responses that supported recovery.
Although studies on dance therapy for spinal cord injury (SCI) are limited, rhythmic movement therapies show promise in improving motor function, balance, and coordination.
The social aspects of dance, as well as the links between music and dance, are under-explored. So further research and case reports are needed to establish standardised protocols for SCI rehabilitation.
Send inquiry
info@thetotalintegration.com to gain full access to video presentation!
"IT IS TIME TO DO A COMMON PLATFORM ON THE BASIS OF SCIENCE AND CONSCIOUSNESS EXPERIENCES
TO GIVE OPPORTUNITY TO OTHERS AND
HELP PEOPLE AROUND THE GLOBE"
Collaboration
If you are a specialist, a scientist or a researcher from physiotherapy,
rehabilitation, neuro rehabilitation, neuroscience, dance, music or other fields, please feel free to contact us and lets share our knowledge and experience.
If you are a donator, sponsor or investor please feel free to support our mission and our vision to come true for others! Help us spread our knowledge and experience to people in need and lets do something great together in better quality of every day life and well being of people and community! We would like to hear your suggestion for collaboration.
YOUR STORY
If you have a successful story of your recovery from spinal cord injury or if you are a part of community where you know someone who has done it, please connect us and help build a great community to support each other and support others who are struggling on their path of recovery. Lets create a safe place to share our experience and spread empowerment and new possibility for others too!
"We believe that miraculous and inspiring stories can make a difference and change the world!"
Lets support and empower with our experience, knowledge and expertise and
do something amazing together for
individuals, their rehabilitation, integration in society and better quality of life!