The Practice

To make the most of your time at Peninsula Rise, please read the information below.

What is conscious dance?

It is an unchoreographed, dynamic, mindful movement practice.  Conscious dance has the potential to unlock inner wisdom, healing, and spiritual growth. Here is more information on the healing benefits of conscious dance. 

What is a class like?

There are no steps to follow.  You move as the music moves you.  You can dance fast or slow, big or small.  You are guided through the music with instructions for breath and to focus on being in your body.

Sometimes, the teacher will invite you to dance near another participant to deepen your dance experience.  It is always your choice to dance by yourself or with others.  

The practice is intended to go beyond simply dancing to music.  Your movement becomes therapeutic, a type of meditation, and a representation of your emotional state.  

During class, you practice awareness of your body's physical sensations and feelings that coincide with your movements.  As you move, you allow your attention to pass through your mind.  Emotions are released and equilibrium returns to the mind and body.

This process of releasing emotional energy stuck in your mind and body can help you move through life with greater ease and well being.

Why Peninsula Rise?

To bring more conscious dance to the San Francisco Bay Area's Peninsula and build community around it.  The purpose of the class is to create opportunities for regular practice.  Consistent practice allows us to more deeply integrate the principles of the dance into our being.  We welcome those near and far!

Class Guidelines

• We ask that conversations be off the dance floor

• Silence your phones

• Bare feet or dance shoes - no socks to prevent falls

• Refrain from wearing scents - we aim to keep the space scent-free for those with allergies

• Individual, floor-based, activities (stretching, yoga, etc.) may be practiced on the outskirts of the floor

• This is a drug/alcohol free practice

• No weapons allowed

• We reserve the right to ask anyone who does not support our safe container to leave

How do I begin?

• Listen to your body 

• Dance as you are moved.  You are your choreographer.

• Go at your own pace

• Take care of yourself.  Be mindful of physical limitations.

• Stay hydrated.  Bring a water bottle.  

• The music can get loud.  Wear ear plugs if you are sensitive to loud sounds.

• Trust that every body has a dance.  Your task is to find and express yours.

• Enjoy!

How can I learn more about conscious dance?

• Read this article on the benefits of conscious dance

• Gabrielle Roth was a key creator of  modern conscious dance. She developed 5Rhythms®, a foundational form of conscious dance. Get to know the body of work here - www.5rhythms.com

• Familiarize yourself with other key forms of conscious dance, including:

  • Open Floor - openfloor.org

  • Soul Motion - soulmotioninternational.com