GUIDELINES
& FAQs
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3 Simple Principles
1. We Dance without shoes (or: We Dance Barefoot)
This allows us to connect more fully with the Ground (socks are OK).
If you have a physical condition that you need dance shoes, then OK.
2. We Dance without words (or: We Dance with Body Language)
This makes it easier to be in a Meditative State.
No Verbal Instruction from the Facilitators.
No Talking from the Dancers.
(You may whisper quietly on the mats or benches in the back, IF no one else can hear you from the Dancefloor.)
3. We Dance as We Are
No Drugs/Alcohol, No Phones, No Camera/Video, No Scents, No Expectations, No Judgements, No Shoulds, No Oughts… Just Be Yourself; With Respect for Ourselves, the Space, and One Another.
FAQs
The Music
At most dances, the soundscape is provided by professional DJ’s who mix the music and facilitate the journey. Most sets will include a variety of musical genres, sonic wave of all tempos, a full spectrum of emotions. At some dances you will find the vibe to be more organic and tribal, and at others more electronic, futuristic, or urban. No set is ever the same!
The Space
Ecstatic Dance is a Freeform Conscious Dance. As soon as you enter the space, you are invited to let go of judgements and expectations, and allow yourself to feel you emotions, sensations, body, mind, and spirit. Because this is a safe space for movement and expression, we do request that you follow the three main guidelines: no shoes (and wear comfy clothes!), no booze (or any other drugs), no talking (body language only!). All freedom of expression is welcomed, and there is no ‘right and wrong’ here.
Trust in the journey and move through everything that arises.
The Journey
Most dances include:
- A warm-up activity (such as yoga/contact improv/group movement)
- An opening circle
- A 2 hour Ecstatic Dance
- A wind-down period (such as Sound Healing or Meditation)
- A Closing Circle
The Community
The Ecstatic Dance community welcomes people of all ages/genders/religions/ethnicities.
This is a cross-generational community, so often you will see dancers between the ages of 18-80 enjoying the space together. Many dances allow children to attend, but we recommend checking with your local facilitator before bringing a child! We are a non-denominational community, where we come together for the joy of moving and dancing together. This means that some people come simply for the exercise, some come for the social connection, and some come to use the dance as a form of therapy, emotional catharsis, spiritual practice, or prayer. Whatever your reason for wanting to move, you are welcome at Ecstatic Dance.
What to Bring/Wear
Dress to sweat! We recommend you wear clothes that allow your full range of motion. Bring socks if you wish, but no shoes are allowed on the dancefloor. Always bring a water bottle, and make sure to stay hydrated through the dance! Water is usually provided for free, and there is sometimes snacks or massage offered on the sidelines for purchase. Most importantly: bring an open mind, a curious spirit, and a body ready to dance!<
Consent: On Dancing Together
Many Dancers come to dance by themselves in the Group Field. Some Dancers also enjoy dancing with others, with or without physical contact. Below is a guide to help your experience at Ecstatic Dance.
- It is always a Good Idea to begin by Dancing with Yourself. Feel into how you are doing in this moment, and in your Life in general. Set an Intention for Yourself & for The World at Large at the beginning of the Dance.
- If you would like to Dance with someone else, please make sure they are able to Give their Consent to Dance with you before Touching them or entering their Field. If you are not sure, or their eyes are closed, it is a No. Please respect any No, and try not to take it Personally.
- How to say “No” nonverbally? Turn Away, Move Away, Hand(s) at Your Heart (prayer gesture)
- How to say “Yes” nonverbally? Turn Toward, Move Closer, Extend a Hand (open palm)
