“Open Floor is an exploration of free movement and of oneself through movement.
The Open Floor is a place where you can be and move exactly as you are and become more of who you truly are with each dance.”

- Lucie Nerot, Founding Member Of Open Floor


If you are new to conscious dance here are a few tips to help you feel at home...

It's normal to feel nervous on the dance floor, but this eases over time. In my classes and workshops, we begin with a warm-up and guidance to help you connect with your body. We explore themes through movement, allowing time for personal expression. Occasionally, you'll work with others, which can be intimidating but offers a powerful, non-judgmental healing experience. Some workshops also incorporate art, which helps tap into the unconscious and express emotions that are hard to verbalise.

I really enjoyed the embody group experience. It allowed me enough time dancing to start to settle in and feel the benefits of this work. I love it!!!

-Kate

SOME MORE TIPS...

(Courtesy of  Joanne Winstanley)

  • Is whatever you feel comfortable to really move in. Layered clothes are good to adjust if your body gets too hot or cold. Bare feet or soft dance shoes are recommended. Bring water to drink and leave it on the side.

  • As we move we stir things up. You may hit places of fatigue or discomfort. Even if you can only tap your toes to the beat stay in motion until something changes. It will!

  • Listen to your body, it’s energy levels and any limitations. Stretching yourself beyond your usual zone may be good, but don’t push.

  • Let’s face it, dropping into meditation isn’t as easy we think. This movement meditation is a chance to drop down below the words, below the social chit-chat and to speak with our bodies. Everything that’s going on inside is fuel for your dance. If you can’t resist speaking please go outside and allow others their chance to drop in. Turning your resistance into a dance is a way of consciously participating.

  • Is your partner sending you signals that they want to be left alone? Do people have to dance around while you stop for a chat on the dance floor? Are you so absorbed by your own enthusiasm, swinging yourself or another through the air that people have to take themselves out of their meditation in order to not get whacked by one of your limbs?
    Mindfulness is a basic tenet of this movement meditation. Mindfulness respects our own bodies and sharing space with others.

  • Your body is the place to be. Are you one who’s always going for a drink, to the bathroom? Distractions are always available, but not really new.