OPIS

5Rhythms is a holistic movement meditation practice. Its foundation is the Wave, comprised of five rhythms or movement qualities that together form a seamless whole. The Rhythms are maps for exploring not only our movement but also many different aspects of being human. The rhythm of Flowing teaches us the power of being in our bodies; Staccato fires us up into the power of authenticity and self-expression; Chaos guides us to the power of surrender and letting go; Lyrical sweeps us off our feet into the full power of our creativity and lightness; and Stillness invokes the power of presence in motion.

This is a workshop where we explore being in our own power. However, the power we are seeking is not brute strength, ambition, achievement, or winning. We’re reaching for the power to be ourselves and the courage arising from openness, honesty, and vulnerability. We will practice recognising our physical needs and tuning into and receiving the messages in our bodies (flowing). Staccato, on the other hand, has to do with action: what do we do with the information that we hear? What direction to we move in? Fast or slow? Staccato focuses energy and awakens our intention, direction, and determination. It challenges us to practice being clear, grounded, and open in our physical expression – which, with enough practice, can translate into the way we move through our lives. In Staccato we will particularly practice opening our connection into our hips, the physical power centre of our bodies. And in order for us to understand our own power and to have the courage to step into it, we also need to understand what corrodes, disrupts, or undermines our power. How and when do we give our own power away? How does powerlessness feel in the body? What is our relationship to boundaries – are we able to say yes and no?

With movement, dance, awareness, and breath, we can open our doors and windows and let the light shine in. At best, we get to fall in love with ourselves. We can fully step into the power of being who we already are.

5Rhythms is suitable for everyone and bodies of all ages, shapes, and sizes. No previous experience is necessary. Each participant is encouraged to move according to their own energy level: you need not worry about how to make it through a weekend of dance! You may be surprised at the energising and catalytic power of this practice.