What to expect at Ground Swell

What is this spin-off of Ecstatic Dance like?

Ground Swell PC: Julia Malich

ETHOS

Ground Swell was created to build community with shared values of embodiment, self-expression, and dancing wildly without alcohol!

We don’t call it an ecstatic dance because all of you is welcome. You can be ecstatic, nervous, messy, irritated, grateful, grieving: all and any of your emotions are welcome to be felt and moved with.

Typically 15-25 people attend.

ARRIVAL

When you arrive, there is a little check-in area with community guidelines and registration.

You can pay in cash or use Venmo. Cash is preferred.

The cost is $15-$25 or whatever you are able to offer! Barter ideas are welcome.

If you arrive on time, the music is slow and most lay down and stretch. If you arrive late, the music might be more upbeat with people dancing.

Please note that at Aspen Grove, where we hold our indoor dance, the doors close at 7:45pm sharp.

DANCE

Once the music starts, conversation ceases for the next 90 minutes while we dance and move. The music starts slow, builds into a peak, and then slows down.

You are welcome to dance by yourself the whole time. Sometimes people dance together and you are also welcome to try engaging with others with or without physical contact. We practice consent in the space and will help guide you into listening to others’ yes and no.

There is NO RIGHT WAY TO DANCE at Ground Swell. We encourage you to be curious, try different ways of moving, and allow yourself to take inspiration from others around you!

You are welcome to rest or witness at any time!

There is NO RIGHT WAY TO DANCE at Ground Swell!

CLOSING CIRCLE

When the music ends, we sometimes sing a really simple, soothing song that you are welcome to join in on.

Then we have an optional closing circle where people may opt to share about their experience and any community announcements.

You can leave whenever you want.

READY TO COME CHECK IT OUT?

Ground Swell occurs weekly in MIssoula, MT!

Can’t wait to meet you!

JP and the Ground Swell team

contact: JP@touchandchange.me