09/06/2026
Two words that can fill even the most confident among us with dread: Ecstatic Dance. A couple of years ago, I would have been one of those reluctant to engage.
Music and dance have been a huge part of my life since I was a teenager going to festivals and raves. When people connect on the dancefloor, magic happens.
So, what is it about Ecstatic Dance classes that fill us with dread? Is it all a bit ‘rainbow rhythms’? (peep show reference). Is it because we’re sober? Do we feel exposed? On show?
This year, I’ve been to a few Ecstatic Dance sessions and with each session, learnt more about myself, my relationship with my body and the people around me. Here are a few things I’ve noticed…
Dance is a practice, not a performance. People have been dancing since the dawn of time as a ritualistic practice. It brings communities together and it’s the perfect way to get out of our minds and into our bodies.
Life is way more fun when we’re not worrying about how we look or what other people are thinking of you. Have you ever seen someone dancing wildly, taking up space and having the best time? They’re the ones having the most fun.
Every single one of us is capable of wild self expression. Even if you’re shy. Even if you’re not used to it. We can all learn to be more free, more unapologetic, more open.
Despite what the voice inside your head is saying – we are all allowed to take up space.
And the hardest part of all – if people judge, let them. Who knows what insecurities they are holding onto. They are not yours to take on.
Would you ever try Ecstatic Dance? Let me know in the comments below.
