Movement meditation, guided by music and facilitator. Both contemplative and dynamic practice to connect with body wisdom, inner source of inspiration and balance.
Benefits
Conscious movement bringing awareness to the body, realisation of the microcosm of our inner landscapes through the lens of five elements of the natural world; air, earth, fire, water and ether. Can help to embody a deeper understanding of our interdependence with all beings.
Example
A 90-minute guided movement meditation session that included guided explorations and exercises – to help participants ‘arrive’ in their bodies, explore and express sensations and feelings through movement, connect with others in the space and explore qualities of the five elements within. After the short meditation to arrive in the body, followed by a gradual movement, we built up through the elements, peaking with fire, ending with a gentle finish and a brief sharing circle. Before beginning, it is important to establish a safe space, giving proper introduction and clear guidance so that participants can enter the intuitive, free-form dance that allows them to express themselves freely. If possible, to dance outdoors can add to the experience.
Variations
Reduced
One short session, focused on arriving in the body through mindful movement – body listening.
Extended
A (shorter) session every day – starting with an introduction to mindful movement – body listening, next five days focusing on one of the five elements, final long session combining all elements.
Online
Any variety of this session is possible to do online. It can be better supported with additional equipment, such as a good mic and two screens. It is important to ensure participants have safe space to dance in their homes, no trip hazards for example.
Possible traps
People may feel resistant to movement or dance. Many have been judged before for the way they move (which may have brought them to shut down), others may just not enjoy it. It is important to reassure participants there are no right or wrong movements, and encourage them to bring anything that is going on for them in the moment to the movement, however small or big it may be.
‘There is a dance only you can do, that exists only in you, here and now, always changing, always true. Are you willing to listen with fascination? If you are, it will deliver you unto the self you have always dreamed you could be.’ - Gabrielle Roth
The European Commission support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents which reflects the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.