The Dances of Universal Peace are a joyous, multi-cultural way to touch the spiritual essence within ourselves and others. The Dances use sacred phrases, chants, music, and movements from many spiritual traditions from around the world to promote peace and create an integrated experience of body, mind and spirit. There are no performances or audience: new arrivals and old hands form the Dance circle together. All are welcome. Dances are easy to learn and are taught to the whole group each time.
Dance is not necessarily a physical activity; it is primarily a movement of the heart. We aspire to accommodate all kinds of physical abilities or disabilities, and encourage everyone to attend regardless of their status.
What to Expect
- The Dances are open-hearted and prayerful, participatory rather than performer / audience.
- A guided walking meditation usually begins the dance session as a transition from everyday activity to sacred space
- All dances are taught. It’s OK to ask questions and if you don’t get the words at first, it’s OK to hum or mumble the words
- Take care of your body. Adapt the movements of the Dance as needed. For instance, you could stand still or sway instead of turning, or hold waists instead of shoulders. Please keep moving in the line of direction to support the circle as a whole.
- Sometimes a leader may call “On the Breath,” a signal to keep dancing but without singing, allowing the musicians to carry the melody while you can repeat the sacred phrase inwardly.
- At the end of each dance we share a moment of silence.
- People come and go occasionally during a dance. If the dance is a partner dance which has already started, bring a partner in with you. Similarly, if you need to drop out of a partner dance, send your partner to the center of the circle where they will likely find a new partner.
- Please refrain from side conversations, especially during Dances and instruction periods.
- Personal boundaries vary. If gazing directly into others’ eyes is uncomfortable, consider focusing on the mid-forehead (third eye). Hugging is a widely enjoyed form of greeting in the circle but it is a personal choice. Honor your own boundaries and also respect others’ spatial needs.
- Please refrain from using scented personal products, as some dancers may be sensitive to such products. Thank you for your consideration!
- Occasionally, we snap photos to share on social media in an effort to invite a wider spectrum of people to the Dances.
- Have fun!
What People Are Saying
What a wonderful dance last night! Your clarity, joy, and open loving heart shines through your exceptional dance leading. The two men who hadn’t danced before had positive experiences and had no problem following your lead. I suspect they will be back! I’m so grateful you blessed us. — Gaea V.
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