Frequently asked questions
What kind of music is played?
Usually an ecclectic mix of recorded music from many different cultures and genres is used, and occasionally live music. For the teacher music is a tool which can help create a particular mood, and if you have strong musical preferences it will probably help you to think of the music in this way in order to stay open to opportunities. Music is very powerful and can trigger all sorts of memories, feelings and associations. If a track (or anything else for that matter) triggers something in you, you are encouraged to stay real and express whatever is happening through your dance... which means: Yes! You have permission to dance the 'I hate this music' dance!
How might I benefit from dancing 5 rhythms?
5 Rhythms can be beneficial on many levels:
Socially it can be an interesting way of interacting with and meeting new peopleEmotionally it can be expressive and sometimes catharticPhysically it's a fantastic way to exercise at a level appropriate to your fitnessMentally, the 5 Rhythms can help the dancer achieve a meditative state of mindAs you become familiar with the Rhythms you may find them a useful lens through wich to view the World, offering insight and understanding into your life and relationships and assisting personal development and transformation.
In what way is 5 Rhythms a spiritual pracitce?
Gabrielle's original aim in articulating the 5 Rhythms was to map her journey to what she called the 'silver desert' - a timeless place she had discovered through dancing. This intention places spirituality at the heart of 5 Rhythms. Most dancers at some time experience a feeling of connectedness or being part of something bigger, trance or ecstacy. 5 Rhythms is not affiliated with any religion or belief system and is open to all.
is 5 rhythms ok for people with mental health issues?
We all experience times when we feel slightly off balance mentally and emotionally. 5 Rhythms can be a useful healing tool in these circumstances. Dancing the Rhythms can help us release tensions and old habit patterns, highlight life skills and weaknesses, and provide a safe environment in which to explore and practice new ways of being. Nonetheless 5 Rhythms is not a therapy and your teacher is not qualified as a therapist through 5 Rhythms training.
If you have long-term mental health issues or are experiencing anything that concerns you during or as a result of your 5 Rhythms practice, it is important that you communicate this to your teacher so that if necessary they can help you to decide on a course of action or find the support you need.
