PLEASE NOTE UNFORTUNATELY BRUCE IS NO LONGER ABLE TO OFFER SOUNDBATH AS ADVERTISED. WE ARE WORKING ON A REPLACEMENT. APOLOGIES FROM ALLAbout this Event
Join us on Saturday 21st November at The barn, kingston at 2pm for meditative movement in this wonderful space.
Let go of your inhibitions and let the music guide you as we dance away what no longer serves us to maintain balance and create space for what is to come through non verbal, barefoot dance in a safe and inclusive space.
We look forward to seeing you there.Please come with an open mind and heart and respect these principles:
Respect other people's space in the room. Dancing with another is welcome but please ask for consent if it is not obvious and take the hint.
No talking throughout the conscious dance. This is a sober event, no intoxicants please.
No mobile phones on the dance floor, please make sure they are turned off or on silent for the duration
We encourage you to stay from begining till end or at least until we have finished the closing circle.
While we aim to bring good vibes with the music we play we understand the possibility that some sounds may bring up difficult emotions so if you you feel you need to step outside for a while or need to leave for what ever reason please come speak to one of us before hand
Ecstatic dance offers numerous health benefits, both physical and emotional. It promotes cardiovascular fitness by encouraging movement that increases heart rate, while also improving flexibility, coordination, and muscle strength. The freeform nature of the practice helps reduce stress and anxiety, as it allows for emotional release and enhances mental clarity. By fostering mindfulness and body awareness, ecstatic dance can also improve mood, boost self-esteem, and promote a sense of connection with oneself and others. Overall, it provides a holistic approach to wellness, integrating mind, body, and spirit.
The blue lotus (*Nymphaea caerulea*), revered since ancient times, has a rich history of ceremonial use, particularly in Egyptian culture where it was associated with the sun god Ra and symbolized creation and rebirth. Consuming the flower, often brewed as a tea or used in poultices, was believed to induce mild psychoactive effects, including relaxation, euphoria, and heightened sensory perception. Its calming properties made it a staple in various rituals and ceremonies, enhancing spiritual experiences and promoting introspection. In addition to its psychoactive effects, blue lotus is also known for its potential health benefits. It has been attributed with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties, and may aid in alleviating anxiety, improving sleep, and enhancing overall well-being. As a symbol of transcendence, the blue lotus continues to captivate both the ancient and modern worlds, valued for its ability to facilitate deep meditative states and connect individuals to the divine while offering versatile health benefits
Percussion playing is one of the oldest forms of human musical expression, dating back to prehistoric societies where drums and rhythmic striking were used in rituals, communication, and communal gatherings. Across cultures—from African djembe traditions to Indigenous ceremonial drumming and Asian rhythmic systems—percussion has been deeply tied to movement, trance, and collective experience. Its emphasis on rhythm over melody makes it especially powerful in guiding the body rather than the intellect. This is why it pairs so naturally with ecstatic dance: the steady or evolving beat creates a foundation for spontaneous, uninhibited movement, allowing participants to enter a meditative or euphoric state. The physicality of percussion resonates with the body’s own rhythms—heartbeat, breath, steps—making it an ideal companion for dance practices focused on release, connection, and embodied awareness.
Gong Baths are a powerful way to gently bring an ecstatic dance journey to a close, offering participants a deeply restorative and grounding experience. After the expressive, high-energy movement of dance, the rich, resonant tones of the gong help calm the nervous system, slow the breath, and guide the body into a state of relaxation and integration. This soothing soundscape supports emotional release, mental clarity, and a sense of inner balance, making it the perfect transition from dynamic movement into stillness. As a closing element, a gong bath leaves participants feeling centered, nourished, and deeply connected—both to themselves and the collective energy of the space.
Please note
While sound baths are generally safe and deeply relaxing, there are certain groups who should approach them with caution or seek medical advice beforehand. People with a history of epilepsy or seizures, especially those sensitive to sound or vibration, may be at risk of triggering an episode. Those with severe mental health conditions such as acute anxiety, PTSD, or psychosis—might find the intense sensory experience overwhelming. Individuals who are pregnant (particularly in the first trimester), have heart conditions, or use pacemakers should also check with a healthcare professional, as the vibrations can affect the body in subtle ways. Additionally, anyone with sound sensitivities, tinnitus, or hearing aids may need adjustments or ear protection. With proper awareness and guidance, most people can still enjoy the benefits safely.
If you are have any doubts or unsure whether gongs are for you please contact Bruce on 07740 072877
While Blue Lotus is considered safe it isn’t suitable for everyone. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid it, as there’s very limited safety research. Those taking medications that affect the brain—such as antidepressants, sedatives, or anti-anxiety drugs—should be cautious, since blue lotus may enhance drowsiness or interact unpredictably. Individuals with a history of mental health conditions (like psychosis or severe anxiety) may also want to avoid it, as its psychoactive properties could worsen symptoms. It’s also not recommended for people with low blood pressure or those consuming alcohol or other substances at the same time, as the combined effects can increase dizziness or sedation. When in doubt, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional before use.
If you have any doubts or are unsure whether or not blue lotus is for you then please contact us.
Agenda
🕑: 02:00 PM
Doors open
🕑: 02:15 PM
Welcome circle with blue lotus tea offering
🕑: 02:35 PM
Warm up
🕑: 02:30 PM
Dance with live vocals and percussion
🕑: 04:15 PM
Gong Bath
🕑: 05:00 PM
Hot meal
🕑: 05:30 PM
Closing circle
Event venue
Kingston Village Hall aka The Barn, 25 The Street, Kingston, United Kingdom