Ecstatic Dance is a freeform movement journey, held in an open, compassionate container...a place where we can be our unique selves, and share the bliss of being in our bodies, together.

Doors open at 7:15. Event begins promptly at 7:30pm. We'll share a lighly guided embodiment warm-up to all settle into our bodies together...and and then we will boogie into the night, wordlessly and with abandon!

There will be bodies moving, by themselves or with others, in whatever space and expression wants to manifest at the time. There may be howling, stomping, crying or laughing. You may find yourself joyfully moving in ways you never have before!

Go wild! Be slow. Be bold. Be calm. Be exactly as you are in each moment. There is no script, no steps, no expectations, and no judgement.

• Kindly arrive early or on time and sober, with a clear mind and open heart.
• Come dressed to move in comfortable clothing
• Bring a vessel for spring water (working up a sweat is not uncommon!)
• No experience required; all ages, bodies and peoples are welcome*
• You can bring a yoga mat, cushion or blanket for the closing circle or to stretch
• We dance without footwear: you may dance in socks if you prefer

* toddlers welcome with supervision, protective headphones recommended for very young ears

Here's a sample of the music we danced to at the 2023 Ecstatic Dances

I'm delighted to DJ a riveting mix of tribal step, high vibes, groovey downtempo, sultry bass, funky electro folk, deep dubs, and global / shamanic fusion. The music is specifically curated to inspire a full body movement journey! _________________ _________________ _________________ _______________ _________________ ________________

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!

_ _________________ _________________ _________________ _______________ _________________ ________________

T he Ecstatic Dance Movement

After 7+ years of living in the East Kootenays, I've decided it's time to bring the full ecstatic dance experience here. When I lived in Victoria, my community centred around monthly Full Moon dances. Spaces that were full of joy, life, light, connection, play. A space to move freely, to be in your body without any need to think or worry or impress anyone (not even yourself!). A space to relax, unwind, and perhaps connect to the inside of your left elbow for the first time in a decade.

I envision monthly dances with 50–100 beautiful people in the coming years, and appreciate YOUR help in making this dream come true!