Laban’s notation merely describes the spatial path of bodily actions. In contrast, Space Harmony prescribes sequences of directional change, which Laban called “scales.”
Laban’s Choreutic scales are patterns based upon joint structure, bodily proportion, range of motion and the necessity of maintaining bipedal balance as we move through the gravitational field of our environment.
At the most basic level, Laban’s scales address orientation to space through three body axes – vertical, horizontal, and sagittal – and the motions used in attack and defense. As Laban developes his ideas, the scales become more complex and three-dimensional, challenging range of motion and promoting greater mobility through the use of oblique and diagonal trajectories.
What does this system of analysis contribute? Through her work in physical rehabilitation, Bartenieff found that Laban’s analysis of movement by direct observation of visible spatial elements and use of body parts complemented insights gained from anatomical and neurophysiological research.