Biodanza is a group session promoting whole-being wellness through guided movement and music. It encourages expression, self-exploration and connection in a safe, welcoming space. There are no steps to learn and no performances.
This activity is good for wellbeing because
- It is designed to foster joy through fun and playfulness;
- Participants can develop better self-awareness and self-confidence;
- It can boost overall wellbeing.
"I'm usually quite nervous in groups of unfamiliar people, but somehow Gwen and Marie and everyone there created such a warm, welcoming atmosphere. There was a genuine sense of calm and presence that felt serene and inclusive. The emphasis on groundedness was deeply healing and the music choices were engaging. I especially appreciated how we were encouraged to express ourselves and connect without any pressure to perform or speak - it was refreshingly gentle and authentic. I left feeling both light and centred. I am looking forward to the next one."
How to contact
Where to go
St Andrew's Hall
Saint Andrew's Road
Chesterton
Cambridge CB4 1DH
UK
What to expect
Who is the activity for?
Anyone aged 14+ is welcome to try Biodanza. There is no upper age limit. Attendees need to be mobile enough to stand, walk and dance to rhythm. No previous dance experience is required.
What happens during the sessions?
The sessions involve moving and relating to music within a safe group. You will be greeted on arrival. You will then join the other attendees in a circle. From there you will be led through various exercises explained and demonstrated by Gwen, the group leader. Each exercise involves moving to a different piece of world music, either by yourself or interacting with others through hand-holding, dancing with 'back to back connections' or taking part in contact games. Personal boundaries are respected if you prefer not to take part in all the contact activities. Chatting whilst dancing and between exercises is discouraged, to help everyone stay present.
The sessions begin with active/dynamic exercises. The music then gradually transitions to more melodic tracks with gestural expressiveness, to inspire creativity and bring about slower breathing and heartbeat. Towards the end of the session there is some restful time with music where stillness is encouraged. At the end of the session everyone is encouraged to go and thank everyone else in turn, if they wish, for their participation and presence. The final track brings attendees back into a circle. The session ends with social time with tea and refreshments provided.
Can I bring a carer / parent / guest / social prescriber?
Carers/companions are very welcome to attend, but they will need to fully participate, they cannot sit and watch.
When do sessions take place and how long do they last?
Sessions take place twice a month on Sunday evenings from 5 - 6.30pm. For upcoming dates visit the Biodanza East Anglia Facebook page. The final 30 minutes of each session is social time with teas and refreshments available. Attendees are required to stay for the duration of the session.
How do I book?
If you are interested in attending you should call or WhatsApp message Gwen on 07985 094590 or email [email protected]. Before coming along for the first time you are invited to have a short chat with Gwen over the phone or via WhatsApp videocall (alongside a helpful advocate if needed).
More information
Where do sessions take place?
Sessions are held at St Andrew's Hall in Chesterton. It is an accessible building. Toilets are available. There is a very small car park, or there is street parking available nearby.
What should I wear / bring?
You should wear comfy but layered clothes, to self-regulate if hot. You should bring water to sip in-between music tracks. You are encouraged to dance barefoot, but if this is not comfortable you can wear thin soled shoes. The floor in the hall is made of wooden boards but not sprung. Wipes are always available to clean hands and feet, before and/or after each session as needed.
What is the history of Biodanza?
Biodanza was initially started 60 years ago in South America by a psychologist called Rolando Toro, as a way of bringing joy, hope & meaningfulness to the life of left-out disaffected and institutionalised people in Chile. Classes are now held in many countries around the world. You can find out more the Biodanza Association UK website.
The first in-person session is free to anyone who at the end declares “it’s just not for me!”. However if you enjoyed your first session you are invited to give a cash donation at the end.
After your first session a fee is payable on entry to the class. Details on the Facebook page. You can also pay for your ticket in advance by visiting the individual Facebook events. There is a reduced rate for carers / supporters: the suggested donation is half-price.
How to contact
Where to go
St Andrew's Hall
Saint Andrew's Road
Chesterton
Cambridge CB4 1DH
UK
