Question 1

Do I need dance or breathwork experience?

Accepted Answer

Not at all! No dance experience, rhythm, flexibility, or breathwork background is needed. This is a space to explore movement and breath in your own way. No steps to learn, no performances, and no right or wrong way to participate.

Question 2

What exactly is ecstatic dance and breathwork?

Accepted Answer

Ecstatic dance is a free-form movement experience guided by music through different rhythms, emotions, and energies. Ecstatic breathwork combines guided rhythmic breathing, music, and somatic awareness. Together, these practices invite you to pause, reflect and reconnect with yourself.

Question 3

What should I expect during the evening?

Accepted Answer

We'll begin with grounding, introductions, and gentle somatic exercises to help everyone settle in. From there, we'll move into an immersive experience of music, ecstatic dance, and guided breathwork. We'll finish with time for stillness and reflection.

Question 4

What if I feel awkward dancing or moving in front of others?

Accepted Answer

You're in good company! Many people feel uncertain when trying something new. There is no choreography, no judgment, and no expectation to move in a particular way. You can sway, stretch, dance, sit, or simply notice what your body wants.

Question 5

Do I have to participate in everything?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely not. This is a choice-centered experience. You're always welcome to slow down, rest, modify an exercise, observe, or step away when needed. We encourage you to listen to your body and honor your own boundaries throughout the evening.

Question 6

What should I wear and bring?

Accepted Answer

Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. Bring a water bottle, yoga mat, and any blankets or cushions that help you feel comfortable during breathwork and relaxation. We'll dance barefoot or in socks, depending on the space and your comfort.

Question 7

Is this a safe space for emotional expression?

Accepted Answer

We aim to create a welcoming, trauma-informed environment where a range of emotions and experiences can be present. Some people experience joy, laughter, tenderness, or emotional release, while others simply enjoy the movement and music.

Question 8

What if I become overwhelmed during breathwork?

Accepted Answer

Our facilitators will offer grounding and self-regulation options throughout the experience. You can return to your natural breathing rhythm, open your eyes, sit up, rest, or discontinue an exercise at any time. You are always in charge of your participation.

Question 9

Is activating breathwork appropriate for everyone?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Rhythmic, activating breathwork can cause dizziness, tingling, lightheadedness, or strong emotional responses. It may not be appropriate for people with certain cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, or psychiatric conditions.

Question 10

Will there be physical touch or partner exercises?

Accepted Answer

Some activities may invite connection with others, but participation is always optional. Physical contact is never required, and consent is essential. You're welcome to participate independently throughout the entire experience.

Question 11

Is this therapy or a mental health treatment?

Accepted Answer

Although this experience is facilitated by trauma-informed somatic therapists, it is an experiential wellness and community event rather than group psychotherapy or individualized mental health treatment. It is not a substitute for medical or psychological treatment.

Question 12

Can I come alone?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Many people attend movement and breathwork experiences alone. This is a chance to connect with yourself and, if you choose, with others in a welcoming community.

Question 13

Is this a sober event? Can I take photos?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is a substance-free experience. To protect privacy and encourage presence, we ask participants to keep phones and cameras off the dance floor. We also invite everyone to minimize conversation during the movement experience so participants can connect deeply with the music and their bodies.

Question 14

What might I feel afterward?

Accepted Answer

Everyone's experience is different. You may feel energized, relaxed, emotional, connected, playful, tired, or reflective. We encourage you to take time afterward to hydrate, rest, journal, and notice what feels supportive.

Question 15

Who is facilitating the experience?

Accepted Answer

Ruth Minnick, LCPC, and Zoya Sirota, LCPC, are somatic therapists with backgrounds in trauma-informed and holistic healing. Ruth brings Somatic Experiencing, Transformative Touch therapy, Somatic EMDR, & breathwork. Zoya brings somatic approaches, Somatic EMDR, IFS, & 5Rhythms movement.

Ecstatic Dance & Breathwork in Evanston

More events from Living Well Psychotherapy

Discover more events from Living Well Psychotherapy, from Health to other experiences you might love.

Still looking for the right event?

Explore all events in Evanston and filter by date, category, and more to find the perfect fit.

Ecstatic Dance & Breathwork in Evanston

More events from Living Well Psychotherapy

Discover more events from Living Well Psychotherapy, from Health to other experiences you might love.

You might also like...

Browse more events with different dates, prices, and formats to find your next great experience.

Still looking for the right event?

Explore all events in Evanston and filter by date, category, and more to find the perfect fit.