Dance of Awareness™ (DoA) is a new approach to working with movement, dance and awareness, and aims to increase self-awareness and self- acceptance. There are no steps to learn, it is simply about allowing yourself to follow the movements that are waiting to happen.

The DoA cycle - sensing, grounding, expressing, releasing, connecting and completing - follows an energetic wave, and is similar in structure to the 5 Rhythms wave developed by Gabrielle Roth, but has been adapted to take account of psychodynamic theory and developmental psychology.

The phases of the cycle follow themes of human development from pre-birth through to around five years, which is the time period associated with the growing sense of self which becomes embodied through early experience, and which sets the patterns for adulthood.

The mover has the opportunity to become aware of old patterns, and to explore new ways of moving and relating.

Music and gentle instruction help guide you through the phases which are: Sensing the body directly – arriving into ‘being’ with a focus on sensation; Grounding our bodies in connection to the earth, receiving support; Expressing the shapes, patterns and movements that are ready to take form; Releasing the energy that is ready to move in the body; Connecting deeper with ourselves and with others; Completing the journey and returning to our true nature.

Throughout the process there is strong emphasis on body awareness which provides the ground for our experience. For more information, go to www.embodiedtherapy.org.uk, & for local dances contact Wendy on 01983 641653 or email [email protected].

The next Isle of Wight Dance of Awareness will be on Sunday 10th June 2018 from 7.30-9.30pm at St Mary's Church Hall, Brading. Cost is £7, payable on the door.

Water will be provided, but please bring your own cushions, blankets, and/or yoga mats.