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Circling to share and explore, uplift, and celebrate the essential unity of the people of all cultures, we embody prayer through movement, walk, chant, and song.


The Dances of Universal Peace happen in a supportive, safe environment where we may be who we really are, and where we may share our dancing hearts with others. Almost all dances begin holding hands in the circle. Some dances involve partnering and "progressing," partner-to-partner, throughout the dance. Some dances include more intimate gestures, such as hugging, or energetic movements, like raising hands high in the air and spinning! Usually, a brief period of silence follows each dance.

While the leader suggests movements for all dancers to move together in unison, there are no "rules" that must be followed; in all cases, dancers are encouraged to move and interact in ways that are comfortable for them. Similarly, while all are encouraged to participate throughout the meeting, one may "sit out" as needed for comfort.

Also, as some members of the community may be especially sensitive to scents, please kindly do not wear strong fragrances to the Dances.

Interested children are welcome to all Dances of Universal Peace events.

 

 

"11 Keys to Dancing" - Some suggestions to enhance the Dance


1. LISTEN
2. FEEL
3. CONCENTRATE ON THE SACRED PHRASE
4. DON'T BE AFRAID TO STOP THE DANCE (for dance leaders)
5. SIMPLE RHYTHMIC MUSIC
6. MOVE TOGETHER
7. WATCH YOUR BREATH
8. ECSTASY
9. DEVOTION
10. AMIN (ah-meen)
11. SILENCE

 

   

Murshid Wali Ali Meyer, one of the original students of Murshid Samuel Lewis, said this about the silence at the end of a Dance: "As the sound and music of the dance stop, enter the silence. This is your opportunity to hear what has been created. In this silence one can absorb the qualities evoked during the dance. This is the most important part of the dance. It becomes all-encompassing."