Dance has long been considered a direct connection to the divine with the profound opportunity to allow access to the energy of the universe. Ancient Greeks used dance to worship the divine, Shamans used dance and rhythmic drumming to alter consciousness in spiritual practice, Sufis incorporate dance in their routines, including the Whirling Dervishes tradition, which is where they literally are whirling in a small space, almost endlessly, creating a meditative state. Interestingly even the Bible makes reference to dance, Psalms 149:3 says, “let them praise his name with dancing… Praise him with Tamborine and dance…” and in Samuel 6:14-22, David dances before the Lord with all his might, providing us with a wonderful example of what it truly means to surrender to God in worship.
There has been a modern revival of moving spiritually in the form of Ecstatic Dance. Ecstatic dance has its origins in ancient tribal rituals and ceremonies and has been practiced throughout history, as previously mentioned. This form of movement is a free-form dance, which allows your body and inner guide to be their own teachers. These experiences usually take place in an immersive group, promoting harmony and individual exploration. The goal is to achieve a meditative state and express oneself in a safe space, guided by an ecstatic dance leader, who facilitates space, builds community and curates the music which guides the dance journey. Don’t mistake a dance leader as someone showing you how to dance, no, the purpose of ecstatic dance is to connect with your free movement, without specific steps, abandoning oneself to the rhythm, leading to the feeling of ecstasy, like that of a trance. There are rules for these sessions of course! Every facilitator will have their own, however, some guidelines usually are along the lines of: Be present (no phones or cameras), be embodied (no talking), be clear (no intoxicants), be consensual (self-explanatory), be here (no outside shoes) and most importantly, be free! Dance how you want without judgment.
Ecstasy itself will be experienced in different degrees from person to person. By definition from the APA Dictionary of Psychology, Ecstasy is a feeling of intense pleasure and elation, including that experienced in some mystical states, during orgasm, with aesthetic reveries and in drug induced states. In theory ecstasy, (from Greek ekstasis), is “to stand outside of or transcend oneself”, in mysticism, the experience of an inner vision of God or of one’s relation to or union with the divine. At its most simple form, ecstatic dance can be used for stress relief and in its most profound form, you will have the opportunity to cultivate a deep mind-body connection, as the music guides your movements and breath. This heightened awareness facilitates a state of presence in your internal world, grounding you in the moment and fostering a sense of inner peace that is completely unique to you.
If you are still feeling unsure about attending an ecstatic dance group (look on google or socials to find a local group if you are ready), there is no shame in trying it alone in the privacy of your own home. Pop on your favorite playlist and dance! although I do recommend searching some deep bass, beautiful rhythm tribal world music or something along those lines. This is so you can really feel the music in your bones! You want to lose yourself in the experience. Dim the lights or step out under the moon and let it all go. Let your inhibition go, let tomorrows problems go, and find your way to a place where nothing but the present moment exists. Allow yourself to step into the trance state, let your body move without your need to control, micro manage or protect out of fear. Make your own little safe space and be free.
Rituals I like to do in order to set up my safe space:
+ Most importantly – Make sure no one is going to interrupt!
+ Light candles or mood lighting, burn incense or essential oils, because you want all your senses involved in this journey.
+ Find your perfect playlist, or pick your own songs that can guide you to your ecstasy.
+ Wear something comfortable, something you can move freely and yes you absolutely can do this naked in the privacy of your own home.
+ Clean your space with intention, making the space ready for the internal journey you will take. Get rid of anything that’s not serving you and set the intention for your ecstatic dance ceremony.
+ Take some time to ground yourself. Practice breathing into your diaphragm, utilise the 3-part breathwork technique.
+ When you are ready, start to move in whatever way feels good to you. If your thoughts begin to intrude, acknowledge the feeling and then let them go.
Remember, emotions that rise up for you are valid, they are real, but that doesn’t mean we need to be ruled by them. This experience is your opportunity to let it all go and truly feel free. If by chance you get to the end of your playlist and you hated the experience, my suggestion would be… DO IT AGAIN! Keep dancing until you laugh, or cry or both. Release and transcend beautiful souls.
Leila Verban, Our Expert
Leila Verban is a creative writer and a qualified Yoga teacher who is the sole owner of Earth Side Yoga. Situated at the base of the Eungella Range, she continues to evolve her practice and refine her skills to incorporate counselling, meditation, energy healing and positive manifestation.
- Leila Verban, Our Expert
- Leila Verban, Our Expert
- Leila Verban, Our Expert
- Leila Verban, Our Expert
- Leila Verban, Our Expert
- Leila Verban, Our Expert
- Leila Verban, Our Expert
- Leila Verban, Our Expert
- Leila Verban, Our Expert
- Leila Verban, Our Expert
