https://www.positive.news/society/for-the-love-of-ecstatic-dance/
"Sunday mornings are usually for lazy breakfasts or a few domestic chores.
Today, however, I’m joining another 100 ravers at The Bath House in Hackney
Wick, east London, for some ecstatic dancing to sweat out the stresses of the
week.
Part rave, part mindful meditation and 100% workout, ecstatic dance events have
been growing in popularity across the UK and beyond. Roving DJs provide the
beats and participants span all ages, from young families and limber
twenty-somethings to older generations. Events are hosted in community spaces,
and some gyms are getting on board – David Lloyd Clubs, for instance, now offer
‘spirit dance meditation’ classes.
At its heart, ecstatic dance is about inclusivity, mindfulness and emotional
expression through movement –
sans alcohol. “There’s a little rhyme: no
booze, shoes, no chit chat,” says Richard Batts, the co-founder of Ecstatic
Dance UK, the company behind the event I’m attending.
The practice also functions as a joyous alternative to late-night party
sessions, which can leave us feeling fuzzy-headed, low-energy and disspirited.
For parents or those who have chosen a sober lifestyle, a Sunday morning spent
shaking out the tensions of the week can feel like an unusual treat. It can
also feel uncomfortable.
“People are sober – it can feel very edgy,” says Batts. But, he explains, that
discomfort is part of the experience. “You might feel really silly doing this,
and that’s okay. If you don’t want to do it, then don’t. But lean in if you
can.”"
Share and enjoy,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
