Question 1

Can anyone come?

Accepted Answer

This first dance is meant for women and those who identify as women.  Ages 18+ are welcome.

Question 2

Will there be drinking?

Accepted Answer

No, this is a sober event.  In order to create safe space, we'll be dancing sober.

Question 3

What is Ecstatic Dance?

Accepted Answer

Ecstatic dance is free, authentic movement to music—without choreography or "right" ways to move. It's a somatic practice where your body expresses what wants to move through you. You're invited to let go of self-consciousness and move as your body knows. It can be fast, slow, wild, subtle, or still

Question 4

Do I need dance experience?

Accepted Answer

No. This isn't a dance class. There's no choreography to learn, no "right" technique, and no performance. You just move however your body wants to. People of all movement backgrounds—and zero background—come to ecstatic dance.

Question 5

I'm not flexible/coordinated/a dancer. Will I feel out of place?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. This is a somatic and movement experience, not a fitness or dance class. Your body's authentic expression is what matters—not flexibility, coordination, or "looking good." You'll be in a room of women all honoring their own bodies' wisdom.

Question 6

What if I just want to sway or stand still?

Accepted Answer

That's welcome too. Ecstatic dance invites free movement, but "free" includes stillness. Some people move a lot; some people move gently. Trust what your body wants. There's no pressure to move in any particular way.

Question 7

Is this a spiritual practice?

Accepted Answer

It can be. Ecstatic dance is offered as a somatic and embodied practice rooted in nervous system regulation and presence. Many people experience it as spiritual; others experience it as therapeutic or simply joyful. You bring whatever intention feels right for you.

Question 8

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

Comfortable, movement-friendly clothing. Layers are great because you can adjust as you warm up. Most people move barefoot, so wear or bring something easy to slip off.

Question 9

Do I need to bring anything?

Accepted Answer

Please bring a yoga or exercise mat, a blanket and a water bottle.

Question 10

What if I arrive late?

Accepted Answer

You can arrive anytime before 4:00 PM and jump into the opening circle or gentle warm-up sequences. After 4:00, we'll be deep in the work, so arriving then would be jarring. Aim to arrive by 4:00 if possible.

Question 11

Can I leave early?

Accepted Answer

The closing and integration (4:50–5:10) are brief and grounding. If you need to leave before then, that's okay—just slip out quietly during the dance section so you don't disrupt others' experience.

Question 12

What if I need to sit out or take a break?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. This is your experience. If you need to rest, step to the side, or sit down during the dance, do it. There's no judgment. Your body's wisdom is the guide.

Question 13

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there's plenty of parking in the lot next to the building.

Question 14

What if I get emotional during the dance?

Accepted Answer

That's normal and welcome.  That's normal and welcome. Movement can bring up emotions—grief, joy, anger, release. If you feel emotional, keep moving or rest as needed. You're held in a safe, non-judgmental space. No one will interrupt or question you.

Question 15

What if I feel triggered or uncomfortable?

Accepted Answer

You're always in control. If something doesn't feel right, you can step out, sit down, or leave. This is your experience. The facilitator creates a safe container, but your boundaries matter most.

Question 16

Is this physically intense?

Accepted Answer

It can be, depending on how you move. Some people dance vigorously; some move gently. You decide the intensity. If you have injuries, limitations, or health concerns, listen to your body and move within what feels safe. Let Amanda know ahead of time if you need modifications.

Question 17

I have anxiety/trauma/a health condition. Is this safe for me?

Accepted Answer

This can be deeply healing, but it's also good to check in with yourself first. If you have specific concerns, reach out to Amanda before the event and share what you're comfortable sharing. She can offer modifications or grounding techniques. You're always in control of your experience.

Question 18

What if I feel self-conscious about my body or how I move?

Accepted Answer

This is one of the most common feelings—and it usually dissolves within the first 5-10 minutes of dancing. When you're focused on what your body wants to do rather than how it looks, self-consciousness fades. You're in a room of women doing the same thing. Everyone's in their own experience.

Question 19

Will we share personal stories or be expected to talk?

Accepted Answer

The closing circle includes an optional moment of gratitude or sharing, but you never have to share. You can sit in silence. This is about honoring your own experience, not performing or explaining it.

Question 20

How many people will be there?

Accepted Answer

There will likely be less than 25 people present...expect between 5 and 20.

Question 21

Will this be recorded?

Accepted Answer

No. This is a sacred, private space. No photos, videos, or recordings. What happens here stays here.

Question 22

Can I bring a friend?

Accepted Answer

Yes! In fact, coming with a friend or bringing someone new is wonderful. Just have them register separately on Eventbrite.

Question 23

What should I do to prepare?

Accepted Answer

Come as you are. Eat lightly (not right before). Wear comfortable clothes. Come with an open heart and a willingness to let your body move. There's nothing to prepare or "get right."

Question 24

Should I stretch or warm up beforehand?

Accepted Answer

Not necessary—we do a full warm-up together. Just arrive with your body ready to move.

Question 25

What if I'm nervous?

Accepted Answer

That's totally normal, especially if this is your first ecstatic dance. That nervousness usually transforms into joy and aliveness once you start moving. You're in good hands, and you're surrounded by other women choosing to show up authentically.

Question 26

What can I expect to feel afterward?

Accepted Answer

Many people feel grounded, alive, lighter, and more present. Some feel energized; others feel peacefully tired. Some experience emotional release or clarity. Effects can last for days. Everyone's experience is different—trust what comes for you.

Question 27

Can I come to future events?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Amanda will be offering more ecstatic dance experiences. Stay tuned for announcements.

Sacred Remembering

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Discover more events from Amanda Bartlett, from Spirituality to other experiences you might love.

Sacred Remembering

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