About Ecstatic Dance

More on Ecstatic Dance

ALSO KNOWN AS: DANCE MEDITATION OR CONSCIOUS DANCE -one definition being an:- un-choreographed, intentionally non-evaluative mindful movement commonly practiced in a group setting for purposes of authentic self-expression, self-discovery, interpersonal connectedness, and personal healing or growth.

With thanks to the influencers in this field: - Gabrielle Roth - 5 Rhythms (1941- 2012) and my mentor Leigh Tolson for bringing me teachings

Ancient women called Maenads (1300bc), ‘mad ravers’ who worshipped the God Dionysus

An ever-evolving array of worldwide conscious dance modalities and ecstatic dance communities.

Origins of Ecstatic Dance

Ecstatic dance is a somatic movement practice, recently brought to life through the founder of 5 Rhythms Dance, Gabrielle Roth. Previously, a while back (!) evidence shows ecstatic dances practices originated from cultures like the ancient Greeks.

Ecstatic Dance with Sophie as both a Facilitator & DJ ?

Sophie brings ecstatic dance to the world in two ways. One as a Somatic Movement Facilitator leading participants through a musical journey with verbal guidance. And the other as an Ecstatic Dance DJ playing musical journeys without guidance, to an international community of dancers.

How the two overlap

In both cases, the emphasis is to create a safe container for dancers to surrender to the beat and move freely as the music takes them. This is a powerful way to connect non-verbally with others and to experience emotions to be released through the body. Guided within a safe container you will be encouraged to redirect your attention from the mind and its busy thoughts to the sensations, emotions and breath of your moving body.

What Music is Played?

Weaving together a wide range of styles and tempos, forming what is known as a ‘wave’, allowing the dancers to go on a journey within. Loosely speaking, the wave begins with soft, slow-tempo tracks, moves into vibrant electronic dance music, and finishes with a calm ambient soundscape.

Release.

Dance to release a built-up charge of energy.

Express.

Express yourself outside society’s boxes.

Enjoy.

Unleash endorphins and have some fun with others.

WHY PRACTICE ECSTATIC DANCE?

Whatever your reason, the invitation is to come just as you are

For those of you who are curious to meet the edges of your comfort, perhaps feeling a big draw to dancing but self-conscious about it, or perhaps familiar with ‘conscious dance’ and excited to take this to a more elemental place, here is your chance to meet those edges, expand them and to find out a little more about yourself with Sophie as your guide!

Connect.

Feel more connected to yourself and your community.

These are guidelines that help create a safe environment for the group to let go in:

  • BE PRESENT. No phones. No Cameras.

  • BE EMBODIED. No talking.

  • BE CLEAR. No intoxicants.

  • BE CONSENSUAL. Listen for a yes. Respect a no

  • BE HERE. BE FREE. Dance how you want. No judgement. When we step on the dance floor, we include our whole selves, even the frightened and self-conscious parts that want to hide.