Spiritual Dance Blog

The 21st of December marks the Winter Solstice for the northern hemisphere. This is the day when the sun stands still (which is the meaning of the word solstice) at the lowest point in the sky. After this day she will begin to ascend again - hence the use of phrases such as “rebirth of the sun” or “return of the light”. We’ve reached a turning point and from here, our days will begin to get longer and longer until we reach the peak of the sun’s height at the Summer Solstice in June.

If I could title this picture I would call it “Harnessing My Shadow”. That phrase just about sums up 2020 for me. I’ve spent so much time looking inward to discover what’s under the surface. I’ve learned to embrace the parts of me that I didn’t like, or that I kept hidden for protection and even found parts of me I didn’t know existed. And I’ve been slowly putting some of those things out into the world for others to see. Those decisions came with a tremendous cost. However, what I’m left with is a life much healthier for me than the one I previously lived. And one that’s definitely more enjoyable!

Our bodies have a voice that longs to be heard. That voice is movement. By engaging in movement that is guided by what we feel to be true (versus what we know to be true), we learn to channel our inner wisdom. Intuitive movement is a personal practice of self-expression that can transport us to a place of being fully aware and fully present in our physical bodies. When we move guided solely by our intuition, not focused on technique or choreography, dancing becomes something of a treasure hunt. We can discover our unique truth and embrace our authenticity. Inside this type of container, we can begin to speak our innate soul language in a way that words can’t adequately express.

• You are allowed to grow, evolve, and change your mind.
• You belong to yourself.
• You have complete autonomy and authority over your life.
• Don't ever let anyone steal your power.

These are the things I have to remind myself of daily because for a good chunk of my life, I was taught the opposite. Things like compliance and conformity were rewarded in my church community. To question or think differently was to risk exile - and yes I’m speaking from experience.

A shaman is an intuitive healer. The word shaman literally means “one who knows”.  Shamans connect with the spirit realm through altered states of consciousness in order to direct spiritual energy back into the physical world, usually for the purpose of healing. Dance or movement is one way to achieve this altered state and begin your journey. Then there is a turning point where you begin to move through a dream-like landscape - interacting with the world beyond the veil.