Ecstatic Dance

Ecstatic dance is like going to a dance club. What's the difference? Discos are entertainment-centric spaces; whereas Ecstatic Dance Spaces are medicine-centric, although entertainment does incidentally occur. Because the focus in EDS is healing, growth, and freedom you will find the absence of distractions like alcohol, or any substance induced externally. The euphoric state comes from inducing from within through the power of movement and music.

ecstatic + dance = euphoria

The set up or structure of Ecstatic Dance and 5Rythm (5R) are different. 5R follows a ‘wave’ or pattern of music, suggestive of 5 moods or rhythms: flowing, staccato, chaos, lyrical and stillness. A facilitator will not only be playing music but will also be talking to the dancers; inviting more breath, bringing awareness to thoughts, feelings, sensations in the body, inviting release and let go.

Roughly speaking, a good Ecstatic Dance will often present several peaks or waves of emotion that can be experienced as a “birth and death” cycle. 

According to Thornton, ‘Each Ecstatic Dance facilitator changes the more traditional practice (5R) according to their own method’, sometime drawing from ancient traditions such as shamanism, altered states, cacao ceremonies, gong sound baths and more. 

Ecstatic Dance tends to follow a rave or nightclub pattern by having a DJ. This person might do a small amount of facilitation, often of a breathing or a ceremonial nature. perhaps using cacao. They might also follow a movement cycle: warm up, shaking, free dance, rest and meditation. Dancers can be invited to do the whole or part of the session with eyes shut. The music might echo more of the rave experience: house, techno, trance, drum & bass, tribal. There will also be slower music for periods of rest and integration.

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How does Integrated Medixine facilitate ecstatic dance?

I personally enjoy a blended experience, so naturally I'm inclined to facilitate an experience similar to those I attend.  I prefer holding space during lunar phases. A session might begin with medicine drumming then change over to electronics. Like 5Rythms, I methodically arrange the music to complement the journey attendants will experience for the duration of the session.  Usually sessions are one portion of a unique ceremony, on occassion the format can be simplified and exlude ceremony.

How does ecstatic dance impact your health?

Ecstatic dance has been shown to have a number of potential health benefits, both physical and mental. Here are a few ways in which ecstatic dance may improve health:

• Ecstatic dance boosts cardiovascular health: Ecstatic dance is a form of aerobic exercise that can help to improve cardiovascular health by increasing heart rate and blood flow. It can also help to strengthen the heart and reduce the risk of heart disease.

• Ecstatic dance reduces stress and anxiety: Ecstatic dance can be a powerful stress-reliever, helping to release tension and anxiety from the body. By allowing for free expression and movement, ecstatic dance can also help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

• Ecstatic dance improves flexibility and coordination: Ecstatic dance involves a wide range of movements, which can help to improve flexibility and coordination over time. This can help to reduce the risk of injury and improve overall physical performance.

• Ecstatic dance enhances mindfulness and self-awareness: Ecstatic dance can be a meditative practice that promotes mindfulness and self-awareness. By focusing on the body and the present moment, dancers can learn to better understand and connect with their own physical and emotional experiences.

• Ecstatic dance fosters social connection: Ecstatic dance is often practiced in a group setting, which can foster a sense of social connection and community. This can be particularly beneficial for those who struggle with loneliness or isolation.

• Ecstatic dancing improves our mind, body and longevity. In fact, according to a study published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, regular social dancing can help to reduce the risk of dementia by up to 76%.

Overall, ecstatic dance can be a fun and invigorating way to improve overall health, connection to community and well-being, both physically and mentally.

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$35 for 1 hr

"... Music you play during the session I have felt so divine..."