Dance Brings Us Back to Ourselves

In a world filled with fast moving technological advancements, constant social media consumption, and a never-ending bombardment of bad news, genuine human connection has never been more essential. Connection isn’t just a luxury—it’s a fundamental part of what makes us human. For centuries, we’ve gathered around fires, at churches, and in shared spaces to experience human connection. We are pack animals at heart.

Yet, with all the conflict, division, and fear-driven narratives in our world, it’s easy to fall into patterns of projecting pain and self-judgment onto others. These projections create barriers between us, fuelling chaos and confusion. The lasting effects of colonization, global conflicts, and generational trauma have understandably led many of us to close our hearts and guard our trust.

But what if there was a simple way to bridge those divides, to reconnect not only with others but also with ourselves? When we step onto a dance floor, something magical happens. As we dance to the same song we see the people next to us not as a strangers but as a kind of family. Our differences in worldviews don’t have to stop us from dancing together in harmony. As long as we respect each other and the space, we can dance in peace, finding connection and comfort in a world that often feels isolating and unpredictable.

Group ecstatic dances have played a huge role in facilitating these kinds of experience. Unlike structured dance forms, ecstatic dance invites free, uninhibited movement, allowing participants to express themselves authentically. Held in a sober space, these dances create an environment where we can be vulnerable without relying on substances like drugs or alcohol. They allow us to share our truest selves with our collective, no matter where we are on our journey.

Ecstatic dance is not only beneficial to our emotional health and well-being, but also has many benefits on a physical level. Dancing increases heart rate, boosts cardiovascular health, and releases endorphins—those natural “feel-good” chemicals that improve mood and reduce stress. Ecstatic dance is a space for you to dedicate to your physical needs, no matter your fitness level. Many people who attend just need to shake off the day, release some stress, some choose to go deep into a nourishing stretch or meditation, and some go on a rollercoaster of play and exploration. You can make it what you want it to be, and co-create something beautiful.

Ecstatic dance is more than just exercise or entertainment—it’s a practice that reminds us of our shared humanity. It breaks down barriers, fosters empathy, helps us release stored trauma and creates a space where we can play and feel our feelings. It’s a beautiful way to check in with yourself and remember our connection to something greater than ourselves.