Discover Ecstatic Dance Retreats & Festivals Ireland
Ecstatic dance retreats and festivals in Ireland are deeply transformative. It’s not just about dancing; it’s a journey of self-expression and growth. You do this in a supportive environment within beautiful natural settings. This is a perfect break from the stress of everyday life.
Retreats usually last 4 days and 3 nights1. The cost varies from USD$640 to USD$961, depending on where you stay. You can choose from places like a Shared Triple Women’s Yurt to your own Private Yurt or Camping/Vans1. To secure your spot, you need to pay a USD$99 deposit. This includes 9 meals, with options for those with special diets like dairy or gluten-free1.
Ecstatic Experiences carefully plan these events to make them special. They create safe spaces for different movement classes and workshops. Most retreats happen at Embercombe, a beautiful 50-acre estate near Dartmoor National Park1. Here, you can join in on activities like Ecstatic Dance, yoga, and cacao ceremonies for a full well-being experience1.
Key Takeaways
- Retreats generally last 4 days and 3 nights.
- Prices range from USD$640 to USD$961 based on accommodation choices.
- A USD$99 deposit is required, covering 9 meals.
- Accommodations cater to various dietary preferences, including vegan and organic.
- Embercombe’s rewilding estate offers a serene retreat setting.
Introduction to Ecstatic Dance in Ireland
Ecstatic dance is gaining more fans in Ireland. It’s all about moving to the beat without a care in the world. Participants often find themselves in a trance, experiencing freedom and a connection to something deeper when they dance.
What is Ecstatic Dance?
Ecstatic dance is diving into music with abandon. You lose self-consciousness and let go of judgement while moving freely. The rules are simple for these sessions: no alcohol, shoes, or phones, no talking, dance however you please, and always show respect2. This mix of freedom and structure clears the mind and releases emotions, bringing a host of mental benefits.
History of Ecstatic Dance
In Ireland, ecstatic dance springs from ancient shamanic traditions and local folklore. It has evolved over time, keeping its core while adopting global dance trends. The result is a unique dance scene that bridges the old with the new, attracting both locals and tourists.
Benefits of Ecstatic Dance
Ecstatic dance isn’t just about fun; it’s also good for your health. It relieves stress, boosts your physical and emotional health, and connects you with others. Sessions are immersive and feature great music in awesome spaces with top-notch sound systems2. Enjoying raw vegan cacao drinks on the side adds to the fun and boosts your creativity2. This makes ecstatic dance a perfect choice for a healthy mind and body.
Top Ecstatic Dance Retreats in Ireland
In Ireland, we have amazing ecstatic dance events with many themes and practices to explore. The Cliffs of Moher Retreat is highly praised for its great stay, tasty meals, and excellent facilities. It stands out for its morning yoga, guided hikes, breathwork, saunas, and singing classes. All these activities aim to boost the spiritual dance experience3.
These retreats offer varied dates, including weekends, long weekends, and midweeks. This makes it easy for people to join a retreat that suits their own timing. They get to pick a time that’s best for them to enjoy Ireland’s dance retreats3. Plus, the events are always adding new wellness experiences to keep things interesting for all attendees3.
One special part of these gatherings is The Wim Hof Method. It helps with deep breathing and exposure to the cold. This approach boosts physical health and adds something exciting to the wellness journeys of those taking part3. The retreats are interactive, with activities like art, music, and sound healing. They aim to provide a full adventure for the mind, body, and spirit3.
Some of these retreats are also big on being eco-friendly. Hosts promise to give a part of the booking money to plant trees. This green effort matches well with the goal of personal growth and helping the planet4. Also, the prices for these events suit a range of budgets. They start from a reasonable $284 and go up to $3,666, making sure there’s something for everyone4.
Lastly, ecstatic dance events don’t just take place in Ireland. They can also be found in Portugal, Spain, the UK, Montenegro, Italy, and Belgium. These global retreats are highly praised, often getting “Excellent” reviews. They offer a wide variety of themes, from tantra and yoga to art and self-improvement. This helps make each retreat unique and transformative, turning every visit into a discovery of self and connection with others.
Ecstatic Dance Festivals in Ireland
Irish ecstatic dance festivals are like no other. People come from all parts of the world to join these joyful gatherings. This year, these events are shining examples of Ireland’s rich dance traditions mixed with modern practices. At their heart, these festivals are about letting go and moving freely to the beat.
Major Festivals to Attend
The top event in Ireland is the Ecstatic Dance Festival, taking place on several dates, starting from February 21. Then, the New Year’s Eve Celebration offers something special with a Sober Rave & Conscious Clubbing experience2. In spring, the Dorset Retreat, from April 10-14, promises joyful dancing and meditation2. Finally, in summer, the Ecstatic Dance Festival in Dorset, July 24-28, is a must-visit for music and dance lovers2.
Unique Features of Irish Festivals
Irish festivals are truly different, with rules like no booze, no shoes, no phones, and no chit-chat. This helps everyone jump into the dance, managing a unique event’s rhythm and flow2. The evening starts sharply at 5:50 pm with a special dance session. It’s important to be on time, not to disturb the experience for others2. Later, at 7:15 pm, the Movement Meditation with Cacao Positive Intention Circle begins. At the end, enjoy a Chai Social with free chai from 9:30 pm to 10:00 pm2.
At these festivals, there’s a special vibe for dancing freely. Participants can enjoy Diana’s raw vegan cacao drinks. This special drink, mixed with an intention ritual, makes the dance session even more magical. Remember to dress comfortably for dancing, do it barefoot or with soft shoes, and bring a water bottle and a snack2.
Transformative Movement Gatherings
In Ireland, transformative movement events offer a place for people eager to grow personally through movement. These events mix structured workshops and spontaneous dance, perfect for self-expression and letting go.
What to Expect
Expect a mix of planned workshops and dancing freely. They often have live music, creating a lively space perfect for creativity and reflection. These events focus on well-being, connection, and changes through dance. They offer various practices, like ecstatic dance and meditation, to help everyone on their journey.
Personal Experiences
Many who attend talk about crying and making strong bonds with others. They say these dance moments push them to grow and heal. For instance, the “Sense & Sensuality” retreat in Wicklow from August 16th – 18th, offers everything for €445, or €425 if you book by July 22nd5. These events create a strong sense of community and joy, touching both new and old dancers.
Mindfulness Workshops in Dublin
Mindfulness practice in Dublin is becoming more popular. It’s a great place for people wanting to be more aware in a busy city. Mindfulness workshops in Dublin are special. They use ecstatic dance to make the experience better. Being in Dublin means you not only focus on mindfulness but also enjoy the city’s lively culture.
Why Choose Dublin for Mindfulness Workshops
Dublin is a top choice for mindfulness workshops for many reasons. It has a wide range of workshops that help you be mindful using different methods. They include both moving and quiet activities. This mix, including ecstatic dance, gives participants a full and interesting experience.
Dublin’s rich history and culture add to the workshop’s appeal. They let you connect with local people and feel a part of the community. These workshops are perfect for those who want to experience mindfulness in Ireland’s iconic city. They mix peace with the city’s lively spirit.
Furthermore, Dublin offers many mindfulness retreats all year. These retreats often include stays in lovely places and activities such as yoga and meditation6. They have something for everyone, making the retreat experience great with lots of wellness activities.
Conscious Movement Events in Cork
Cork has really come alive with conscious movement events. They focus on being aware of yourself and moving intentionally. At these events, you can enjoy dancing, listening to music, and exploring different art forms. It all comes together to help everyone feel good and connect with their community.
Highlights of Cork Events
One special thing about Cork’s events is the amazing leaders. They help people discover themselves through different kinds of dance and art. You might try body awareness exercises, enjoy some live music, and maybe even join a cacao ceremony. It all adds up to a special experience7.
In Cork, the events are well-organised to make sure everyone has a great time. You can start with a group circle, move into exercises to connect with your body, and then enjoy time to dance freely. It’s all about being mindful and having fun at the same time7.
Community Feedback
The people in Cork love these events. They say they’re welcoming and can change how you see yourself. There’s always a warm feeling and chance to really connect with others, even if you’re new to dancing.
People also talk about the calm and respectful atmosphere. They dance without shoes, keep quiet when they move, and leave their phones behind. This all helps make the experience really special7.
With such positive feedback and a strong focus on self-awareness, it’s clear why Cork’s events are popular. They attract a diverse crowd looking for something meaningful.
Spiritual Dance Festivals in Galway
Galway is gaining fame for its unique spiritual dance celebration. It mixes traditional Irish dance with modern forms. This blend creates a special experience that touches hearts from near and far. It showcases Ireland’s culture while adding new spiritual aspects to dance.
These festivals offer more than just dance. They include insightful workshops led by experts like Caitlín Ní Chualáin. She is a celebrated sean-nós singer, winning awards in 2005, 2008, and 2014. Her victory in the Corn Uí Riada competition in 2016 highlights her role in traditional dance8.
These events are part of Galway’s creative scene. They also feature local art, music, and philosophy. Caitlín will lead a workshop at NUI Galway starting on October 1st, kicking off at 7 pm. The event is backed by several organisations, including the Centre for Irish Studies at NUI Galway8.
Dance Ireland, founded in 1989, is central to these festivals. It manages DanceHouse, a premier dance rehearsal space. Supported by the Arts Council and Dublin City Council, Dance Ireland helps keep these events accessible to all9.
DanceHouse’s top-notch facilities attract many dance professionals. The guide features 63 dance groups, showcasing a wide range of talent9. This combination of skill and top facilities ensures these Galway festivals are a key part of the cultural calendar.
Festival Name | Key Features | Notable Artists |
---|---|---|
Galway Dance Festival | Mix of traditional and contemporary dance, art installations | Caitlín Ní Chualáin |
Spiritual Dance Celebration | Ecstatic dance sessions, mindfulness workshops | Various local and international artists |
Expect to see even more amazing performances and workshops at these growing festivals. They bring a vibrant spirit and meaningful experiences to everyone looking for a unique spiritual dance celebration in Galway.
Wellness Retreats in Wicklow
Wicklow is known as the ‘Garden of Ireland’ for a good reason. It’s a perfect place for wellness retreats. These events include dance as a key part of their healing process. We can join in dance, walks in nature, and sessions to calm our mind. All this happens in the middle of Wicklow’s beautiful hills and forests.
Activities and Workshops
At a retreat in Wicklow, we find many activities for our well-being. One example is the “Sense & Sensuality” weekend from August 16th to 18th. It combines dance and mindfulness to enhance our senses5. Another example is the “In Darkness Dreaming” weekend from October 25th to 27th. It focuses on personal reflection and healing5. We can also enjoy walks in Wicklow’s green landscapes to feel closer to nature.
Location Highlights
The main draw of a retreat in Wicklow is its amazing natural scenery. The lush woods and hills offer many beautiful places to see. Wicklow has some of the most scenic trails in Ireland. This makes it perfect for peaceful walks and meditation outdoors. Additionally, the annual retreat weekends make the most of Wicklow’s stunning beauty from April 26th to 28th or August 16th to 18th, 20245.
Ecstatic Dance Community Events in Ireland
Ecstatic dance events are growing all over Ireland. People from all backgrounds come together for these events. They are driven by love for dance and a need for self-expression.
The dance community in Ireland has blossomed into a rich network. It is made up of regular meetups and surprise events. Here, people find joy and share their human stories.
A shining example of this network is the varied meetups it hosts. Dance events network Ireland ensures everyone has a chance to join in the fun. These gatherings help forge strong relationships and create a supportive environment.
These events are more than just dance; they’re a showcase of unity and passion. They take place all over, binding different communities together. Each event is a celebration of what we can achieve together.
Conclusion
Ecstatic dance retreats and festivals in Ireland are special. They let us connect through the power of dance. These events, big or small, allow a deep dive into joy and mindfulness. They open the door to change and making friends. The schedule is packed with mindful practices, dance, meditations, and unique sound experiences10. This all-round experience caters to our whole being.
At these events, we follow simple rules to create a sacred atmosphere. We dance without shoes, embracing the earth, and keep an open heart10. Being in the moment and respecting each other is key. Experts like Joseph Duggan guide us. Their wisdom supports and inspires us during the event10.
These activities are getting more popular, showing how much dance matters. Ireland’s beautiful nature makes these events even more special. Everyone, whether new or experienced, finds connection and meaning through dance. In short, Ireland has become a lively place for those wanting to connect deeply and enjoy free dance10.
FAQ
What is Ecstatic Dance?
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What are the benefits of engaging in Ecstatic Dance?
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What are the unique features of Irish Ecstatic Dance festivals?
What should I expect at Transformative Movement Gatherings in Ireland?
Why choose Dublin for Mindfulness Workshops?
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References:
- https://bookretreats.com/r/4-day-ecstatic-dance-retreat-in-devon-uk
- https://www.roundchapel.org/listings
- https://cliffsofmoherretreat.com/
- https://bookretreats.com/s/other-retreats/dance-retreats/cork
- http://www.themovingbody.ie/classesworkshops
- https://www.cliffsofmoherretreat.com/
- https://allevents.in/dublin/ecstatic-dance-cacao-and-live-music/200026583473835?ref=footer-up-eventlist
- https://www.universityofgalway.ie/colleges-and-schools/arts-social-sciences-and-celtic-studies/geography-archaeology-irish-studies/disciplines/irish-studies/news/
- https://www.danceireland.ie/content/pubs/A-Guide-to-Independent-Choreographers–Dance-Companies.pdf
- https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/ecstatic-dance-journey-from-activation-to-relaxation-tickets-918976021017?aff=ebdssbdestsearch
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