Ecstatic Dance – Simple Guidelines

1. We Dance Barefoot

• This allows us to connect more fully with the Ground (socks are OK)
• If you have a physical condition or need and would like to dance with shoes, kindly do so (otherwise pls avoid shoes so as not to harm others’ toes!)

2. We Dance without words

• This makes it easier to be in a Meditative or “flow” State
• Minimal Verbal Instruction from the Facilitators (at the beginning only, for newcomers), and the ecsatic dance itself is unguided
• No Conversations on the dance floor (Do express yourself vocally in any way you like WITHOUT using words: howl, shout, hoot, giggle, etc. with awareness for the space around you). If you need a conversation, kindly move to the entrance way or outdoors.

3. We Dance as We Are

• No: drugs, alcohol, cell phones or artifical scents;
• No expectations, judgements, shoulds or oughts… Just Be Yourself; With respect for ourselves, the space, and one another.
• Honour your own body and its needs: enjoy fresh spring water, fresh air, or little breaks to sit, stretch, etc.

4 . An Embodiment Practice

• For those looking to get the most benefit out of dance as a movement practice, you are invited to leave all thoughts off the dance floor (especially fears and worries!) and be fully present in your body and senses.
• Challenge yourself to find a movement expression in every moment, even when you don’t think you like the music or song … you might surprise yourself!
• To maintain the practice, try to stay in motion for the entire practice (it can be very subtle). That includes sitting and dancing softly with your arms, stretching, rolling around on the floor, etc… see if you can keep the energy moving throughout the entire dance!