What happens in the dance class?
Is it free expression or is there a structure?
What participants say about it ...
What happens in the dance class?
Your teacher or facilitator describes and demonstrates a series of exercises or dances. The group does each dance after it is demonstrated. All dances are an invitation - there is no right or wrong and you can choose whether or not to participate. You just express yourself in the spirit of each exercise however you wish. But they are fun 
you will want to join in! There is always lots of laughter and smiles.
The dances usually start with energy and vitality and become quieter and more reflective as the session progresses.
Classes usually last for around 60 to 75 mins. Except for groups just starting out, each session normally begins with an opportunity for people to share their experiences and learnings for a little while. After this, to enhance our experience we dance without talking.
Will I recognise the dances?
The exercises are drawn from dance traditions all over the world. You might find yourself spinning around the room to waltz music - by yourself! Doing a tribal stomp. There is almost always a walk. Some exercises might remind you of tai chi. Some are games - be a child again! Some exercises you do alone, some are for the whole group and some are in pairs or groups of three to five. With the great range of possibilities you will be constantly surprised.
Is it free expression or is there a structure?
Both at once! You are invited to express yourself freely - for example "Dance feeling like you are a flower in the breeze". We use a methodology called Biodanza, which means 'dance of life'. Music and invitation to dance are closely matched. The overall purpose: connecting with others and body and mind joyfully learning and healing together.
How will I feel?
It is always fun! But after a while you will start to experience vivencia. This is best thought of as being transported into another world - a trancelike state where you lose awareness of everything except the intense experience of what is happening here and now. Do you remember the wonder of your first time as a child on a merry-go-round? That's vivencia. There were movement, music and experiences shared with others then too ...
Much the same as with meditation, in Biodanza vivencia is believed to be healing.
I'm a bit unsure ...
Your teacher works very hard to create a safe and supportive environment and to bring those values to the group culture. You will be encouraged to look after yourself, acknowledge your own feelings and always self-care. And to give the same to others. There is no judgement, no right or wrong way. But if you still have questions — feel free to contact us, we will be happy to help.
Our dance sessions are based on the ‘Biodanza’ system created by Chilean psychologist and anthropologist Rolando Toro Araneda. The name ‘Biodanza’ means ‘dance of life’. Rolando began developing the system in the 1960s, working in the mental health area. He then brought it into the wider world. Today you can participate in "The Dance of Life" in over 54 countries. It is particularly well known in South America and Europe and has been in Australia for about 10 years. By now it has both theory and long experience behind it. And your session facilitator will have done a lot of training in how to choose from over 250 exercises and hundreds of pieces of music to create each single class of 10-15 exercises.
Biodanza is supported by a growing body of research showing that participants experience real biological and psychological changes with regular practice, including:
• reductions in stress, impatience, depression and anxiety;
• improvements in self-esteem and emotional intelligence;
• increased ability to express emotion;
• changes in biochemical and immunological response (measured through factors such as changes in heart rate, skin response, and cortisol levels).
At Life Dance Community, we believe this form of dance is a powerful tool in addressing social isolation and loneliness in our society.
Join Us!
Here are dates, times and Marrickville location details. It helps to let us know the session you are coming to.
Thanks for reading! If you have any questions, ideas, or comments please contact us.
What people say about their experiences ...
For the first time I was able to think of myself as belonging … fitting in and connecting deeply with others and through others. Julie
This dancing gives me the opportunity to remember joy, pleasure, connection with nature, connection with others, the giving and receiving of love and sweetness … Mary
Who knew evolving one’s consciousness could be so fun? The facilitators blend music and movement with group and solo exercises aimed at releasing the freedom and truth within. I have found myself walking in waves of bliss, surging with aliveness and I have repeatedly been humbled by sharing deep connection with classmates. Jacinta
I have opened up a part of me that was covered with fear. I smile with confidence now and I dance like never before. Spiro
These sessions saved my life. I was sinking deeply into depression and the joyful experience of dancing with a wonderful group of people pulled me back. Mike