First-timer's guide
3 tips for your first ecstatic dance
Going to your first dance can feel like a big step, and most people come on their own the first time. Here's what we'd tell a friend before they came.
1
If you move to music, you can dance
There are no steps to learn, no partner needed and no way you're supposed to look. Ecstatic dance is about what you're feeling and how your body wants to move.
Start small. Sway, stretch or walk around the room, and let the music do the work.
“If you move when you listen to music, you can dance. Ecstatic dance isn't about steps or partners. It's about what you're feeling, how your body wants to move, and sharing that energy in community.”
2
Nobody is looking at you
It's easy to worry you look silly. Nobody is judging you, and most people have their eyes closed or are lost in their own dance. It doesn't matter whether you hit the beat or how tall, short, big or small you are.
There's no talking and no phones on the dance floor, so you don't have to perform for anyone.
“Nobody is looking at you. You may think you look silly, but nobody cares. If you're out there having fun, that's it. That's all there is to it.”
3
Stay for tea
On the floor you're dancing on your own, but you're also sharing energy with everyone in the room.
After the dance there's tea and conversation, and that's usually where friendships start. Stay for tea as long as you like.
“The opening meditation grounded my intentions for the dance, the sound bath helped integrate the experience and the tea offering at the conclusion helped to foster meaningful connection.”