Outdoor Ecstatic Dance

Join us for an Outoor Ecstatic Dance at Vincent Massey Park with APUKUNA joining us from Nelson, BC!!

LOCATION:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/GcVWQXZrMPbxC4qh9?g_st=ic

*More driving and Parking directions below*
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About Ecstatic Dance:
Ecstatic dance is an immersive free-form movement guided by a musical journey intentionally crafted to induce healing and self-discovery. This journey follows a wave-like progression: it begins with gentle rhythms, builds to a vibrant climax, and softly descends into tranquility. It's an inclusive practice where no prior dance experience or partner is required—only an openness to explore personal expression within a supportive environment.

The essence of ecstatic dance lies in its creation of a space devoid of judgment, conversation, and external distractions. Here, there are no observers, only participants fully engaged in the moment. It's the dance of introspection, where movement is uninhibited, driven not by aesthetics but by the authenticity of the moment, allowing individuals to lose themselves in the eperience. A profound inner and outer journey, ecstatic dance acts as a moving meditation, establishing a direct connection between body, mind, and spirit.

Participants are encouraged to let their body and intuition lead, using dance as a medium to release and transcend the stuck patterns of the body, emotions, and mind. It offers a stark contrast to mind-dominated interactions of typical social gatherings, focusing instead on genuine presence and connection. Ecstatic dance champions the spirit of universal acceptance, empowering people from all walks of life to express themselves freely.

The liberating atmosphere and the fearless movements of others inspire participants to dance without inhibition, embracing their unique rhythms. It's a celebration of individuality and unity, where everyone is recognized as a dancer and warmly welcomed into the fold. Through ecstatic dance, we find a powerful avenue for expression, healing, and connection, unearthing the pure joy of being utterly and authentically oneself.
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About APUKUNA
Apukuna, is a multifaceted artist who weaves melodies inspired by the world's medicine songs. He curates 'heart-beats' for the dancefloor while simultaneously crafting sonic storytelling that supports inward reflection and outward expression. His unique approach to DJ’ing involves looping, live remixing, and live digital percussion – making each journey a one-of-kind improvised experience. With a passion for creating transformative spaces, Apukuna invitesdancers to embark on a journey into the depths of their being and out into the expansiveness of the universe.
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DANCE TEMPLE GUIDELINES (PLEASE READ)

THE FLOW:Please arrive on time so that we may all journey together. We begin in silence and we end in silence. Upon entering the dance space, come into silence and sync in. When the set is complete, please remain in silence until guided otherwise or into a closing circle.

DANCING AND CONSENT
If you'd like to dance with someone be mindful of consent via body language and eye contact. A person's willingness to dance and exchange energy may change throughout the dance and from week to week. At any time, you or the person you are dancing with may choose to close the dance by moving away or bowing with hands in prayer.

TALKING
There is no talking on the dance floor. Limiting talking supports dancers to drop into the experience more fully. If you would like or need to have a conversation, please do so in the foyer. If you witness a conversation happening, you are welcome to gently remind people of this request (with a gesture).

KIDS
Parents are asked to kindly monitor their kids and keep them close (at arm's reach). If it's quiet (especially during opening and closing meditation and circle), and your kids aren't - please see that they are guided into relative silence. Otherwise we ask you to take them outside or to the foyer so as not to distract others from the proceedings.

PHYSICAL BOUNDARIES
Please respect each others space. Be mindful of your own needs and boundaries and feel free to communicate them. Be mindful of the needs of others. If unsure, ask before engaging in physical touch such as hugs and other physical touch.

ENERGETIC BOUNDARIES
Ecstatic Dance may result in a heightened sense of awareness and energetic sensitivity. Please be mindful of this and refrain from staring, watching or scanning other dancers. If unsure, ask yourself “where is my awareness and energy, now”? If it’s with someone else, call your energy and awareness back to your body.

CELL PHONE USE
Please refrain from using your cellphone on the dance floor, If you want or need to use your device, please do so in the foyer.

SWEATING
If you come and intend to sweat (like REALLY sweat), please bring a towel and clean the space around you from time to time - if the floor is wet from your sweat, stop, wipe off and clean up. Then, resume!!

SCENT-FREE SPACE
Please refrain from wearing perfumes.

SCREAMING
While sounds and cathartic releases are invited, we ask that you be mindful of the dancers in the space. Ongoing sounds and screaming can distract other dancers from their practice.

FOOTWEAR
Please dance barefoot or wear indoor shoes in the dance space.
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HERE'S MORE OF WHAT DANCE TEMPLE OFFERS:

Practice freedom of expression through movement, while respecting and being aware of those around you.

• Tune into an eclectic selection of musical flavours from a revolving lineup of experienced facilitators.
• Inspire and explore new ways to move your body.
• Explore the altar space for contemplation, reflection and intention setting.
• Learn to enter into a state of trance without the use of substances (no drugs or alcohol please).
• Non denominational opening and closing (can be in the form of a prayer, meditation or circle).
• Minimal facilitation.

You are free to move as you wish.We celebrate and honour gender diversity in our community.

In Closing:

Please arrive early or on time so that we may all journey together.

Bring a water bottle.

Breathe.

Take care of yourself, others and the environment.

Wear comfortable clothing for movement.

Be prepared to sweat.
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We acknowledge with deep respect that we gather on unceded Algonquin Anishinabe Territory. We are deeply grateful to live, work, dance and play on this land.
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DRIVING:
Vincent Massey Park is located off Heron drive.

PARKING:
There is PAID parking in the "Vincent Massey Parking Lot" which is right beside the Bandstand dance area.

Free parking is available at Hog’s Back park. If parking at Hogs Back, please ensure you know how to get to the bandstand. (It’s a 15 minute walk!)

LOCATION:

We will be dancing at the "Bandstand”Bandstand:

USE GOOGLE MAPS:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/GcVWQXZrMPbxC4qh9?g_st=ic

Event Venue

Vincent Massey Park, Heron Road, Ottawa, Canada