"5 element ecstatic dance" is a movement practice that uses the five classical elements—Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether—to guide a free-form dance experience, often incorporating music and breath work to move through different energetic states. It's a sober, celebratory dance that encourages participants to move with their own rhythm without choreography, promoting connection to the body and presence.

 

 

What to expect:

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• Guidance through the elements: A facilitator or DJ guides dancers through distinct phases inspired by each element, which represents a different feeling or energy.

• Earth: Grounded and still movement.

• Water: Flowing and fluid motion.

• Fire: Dynamic and energetic movement.

• Air: Light and airy movements.

• Ether (or Spirit): Often a combination or a release of all the others.

• No choreography: There is no pressure to perform; participants are encouraged to move however feels right to them.

• Sober and connected: It is typically a sober event focused on connection, presence, and a celebratory atmosphere. 

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How it differs from other practices:

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• Distinct from 5Rhythms®: While also a five-rhythm practice, 5Rhythms® uses specific movement qualities (Flowing, Staccato, Chaos, Lyrical, Stillness) instead of the classical elements.

• Intentional structure: The 5-element approach is structured around the progression of the elements to create a complete journey, unlike the free-form structure of a typical Ecstatic Dance event that may include seven stages like opening, activation, and closing.