Tips & Tricks: How to Create and Facilitate an Ecstatic Dance

For over a decade, I’ve been creating and holding spaces for ecstatic dances across the country—building containers that are well-loved, feel safe, transformative, and deeply alive. Along the way, I’ve mentored many new facilitators on how to create an ecstatic dance that truly serves the community. I’ve witnessed newbie failures, missed intentions, what works beautifully, what can fall flat, and the common pitfalls to avoid.

Facilitating an Ecstatic Dance is both a privilege and a responsibility. It takes energy, intention, and a willingness to lead from the heart. Having a guide and clear best practices can make all the difference in helping your dance thrive.

That’s why I’ve written this resource—to support others in building and facilitating magical, embodied spaces where their communities can grow. In this article, you’ll find best practices on how to facilitate and create an ecstatic dance that lasts. Want a more comprehensive ecstatic dance guide? Download my Comprehensive Ecstatic Dance Guide & Checklist PDF for step-by-step details:

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Now, let's start with the basics: Ecstatic dance is a unique form of movement and self-expression that can be a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation. Facilitating and preparing an ecstatic dance can be a lot of work and is essential for the success. Since an ecstatic dance is often a place of inquiry, it is critical to create a safe container for all. To get started, here are some tips for facilitating an ecstatic dance:

1. Create a Safe and Supportive Environment: It is essential to create a safe and supportive environment for participants to express themselves freely. Set up the space with comfortable lighting, good sound quality, and create a sacred space with some beautiful decorations. I suggest having printed guidelines at the entrance, an opening circle that clearly explains the guidelines, and support staff trained up. Also, have a plan for when people don't follow policies.

2. Set Clear Intentions: Before starting the dance, set clear intentions for the session. Share with participants the purpose of the dance and encourage them to set their own intentions for the session.

3. Establish Guidelines: Establish clear guidelines for the dance, such as respecting boundaries, no talking, no shoes, and no alcohol or drugs. It is important to create a container where people feel free to move and express themselves without fear of judgment or disruption.

4. Choose the Music Carefully: The music is a crucial element in an ecstatic dance. Select music that is diverse, energizing, and that has a clear rhythm that encourages movement. The music should inspire participants to express themselves fully and to connect with their bodies. Make sure DJs know what waves are.

5. Offer Warm-up Exercises: Begin the dance with a brief warm-up that will prepare the participants' bodies for movement. This can include stretching, breathing exercises, or a brief guided meditation.

6. Facilitate the Journey: As the dance progresses, guide the participants through the journey by offering prompts or themes to explore. This could be done verbally or through nonverbal cues such as lighting or movement.

7. Close the Dance: Once the dance is complete, take some time to bring the participants back to a grounded state. This can be done through a closing circle, brief meditation, or offering refreshments.

Remember that the goal of an ecstatic dance is to allow participants to connect with their inner selves and express themselves freely through movement. As the facilitator, your role is to create a safe and supportive environment and guide the journey.

If you're just starting out, I recommend that you visit What is an Ecstatic Dance? and our ecstatic dance homepage to become more familiar.

Want to learn more about how to be a host and create a successful ecstatic dance? Watch these helpful videos: