DANCE

Neuro-Meditative Dance could easily be called Neuro-Meditative Movements. The term "dance" does have a neuroassociation that travels with it. In the same way that dance has many categories and styles, NMD has its own flavor or rendition. Unless the theme is something like, "getting lost in the dance," most dances themselves are extremely conscious and mindful. The dance in NMD enhances awareness as well as fluidity of movements. This overall benefit of the dance cannot be overstated.

The dance phase, which lasts approximately ten minutes, captures the theme. After the dance itself, a bridging phase occurs. This period of slowing down, of slowing the movements, combines the dance phase and the integration phase. This bridging phase lasts approximately five minutes. Clearly, you are still moving during this phase. At the same time, you are beginning the process of integrating your movements. Can you see that this bridging phase overlaps the dance phase and the integration phase? This is by design.

The last note regarding the dance phase has to do with the positioning of your body. This is where the term "dance" can be a distraction. Most dances are on your feet. You are standing up while dancing. Although that is the most common position for NMD, it is not the only position. Different positions often help in fully representing the theme and in the integration of the movements. Give yourself permission to explore other positions, especially if doing so is supportive to the theme or integration. Beyond sitting, moving on the floor, kneeling, rolling, you can lay on a couch on your side, belly, or back. In fact, positioning during the dance itself can arise spontaneously. Some positions that reveal themselves play a large role in being more in touch with your body. Feel free to explore these possible changes.