Northern Michigan Ecstatic Dance is a space for your own expression of movement or dance, however big or small that may be. This is not a class. This is a space is to connect with ourselves, listen to our bodies, and move through whatever is happening in our lives at the moment. It's a space to free the body to move without judgment. All bodies and all ages welcome. Gateway Center (Formerly Leelanau Studios)
10781 E. Cherry Bend Road, Traverse City, MI 49684
Outside while the weather is warm enough, behind the building. For most convenient access, park in the lot to the west and all the way to the back. Inside in the winter at New Moon Yoga Collaborative. First and Third Tuesdays
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Suggested Donation: $1-$20
We start in a circle to meet one another and check in. Then there's about an hour of music designed to help you move whatever you've got. It starts slowly, builds to high energy beats, then drops back into flowing rhythms, before ending with meditative sounds. We end in circle to give thanks and share about our experience. Guidelines:
1. Move in anyway that is safe for you and everyone else. Let your body guide you. Not moving is also just fine.
2. Come as you are, and accept others as they are.
3. No conversations on the dance floor. Clapping, whooping, singing, etc. are encouraged.
4. This is a drug & alcohol free space.
5. Photos or video with permission only. Bring your full self, nothing needs to be left behind. This is a place to let it all out. An offering for the dance (flowers, a sacred object, food to share, a poem, lights, an activity, drumming, etc.) are welcome. This is a community created event. Dec-May we are inside. The studio provides water, blankets, bolsters and bathrooms, but it's a good idea to bring a water bottle and layers to shed - it can heat up! June-November we dance outside. Bring water, a blanket, mat, or seat to sit or lay down on, weather appropriate clothing, and shoes (I like some with soft soles so I can still feel the ground). The grass and other plants can be pokey so you might want to wear pants. The space is held by Jeanie Williams who is a trained and experienced facilitator, educator and life coach. She will do everything she can to help you feel welcomed and safe and craft a meaningful experience for the group, however you are ultimately responsible for your well-being. Participate only in ways that are safe for you. Be gentle with your body, your heart, and your spirit. Also do what you can to help others to feel held and supported.
