Dance The Medicine
Dance your medicine, find your balance.
Step onto the dance floor with Dance The Medicine and discover a unique approach to well-being that prioritizes embodied expression over choreographed steps. This isn't about perfecting moves, but rather about bringing your authentic self – your joys, your sorrows, your curiosities – into a space where movement becomes your guide. The philosophy centers on trusting your body's innate wisdom to find balance and release through ecstatic dance. While the core practice remains consistent, Dance The Medicine hosts its retreats at various serene venues, such as Quinta São José dos Montes in Portugal, offering peaceful natural surroundings, a refreshing swimming pool, and diverse accommodation options. It's an invitation to celebrate, connect, and restore yourself through the liberating art of dance.
Highlights
- Focus on ecstatic dance as a therapeutic tool
- Encourages dancing with whatever you're carrying
- Retreats held at various serene venues
- Emphasis on trusting your body's innate ability to heal
Good for
Setting
Dance The Medicine hosts retreats at various tranquil locations, such as Quinta São José dos Montes in Tomar, Portugal. These venues are typically set amidst hills, offering peaceful natural surroundings that invite rest, connection, and embodied celebration. Expect a serene environment conducive to introspection and movement.
The practice
Dance The Medicine centers on ecstatic dance, a freeform movement practice where participants are encouraged to move authentically without judgment or choreography. It's about connecting with your inner self and allowing your body to express whatever arises, whether it's joy, grief, or curiosity. There are no steps to learn, just an invitation to trust your body's natural rhythm and find release through movement.
A typical day
The daily rhythm at Dance The Medicine retreats varies depending on the specific event and venue. Generally, days include guided ecstatic dance sessions, opportunities for rest and connection, and time to enjoy the natural surroundings and amenities like a swimming pool. Specific schedules are provided for each retreat.
Accommodation
Accommodation options vary by venue, but generally include a range of choices to suit different preferences. Specific details for each retreat, including room types, are available on their respective event pages.
What to bring
Pack comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows for free movement. Given the natural settings, consider layers and swimwear if a pool is available. Don't forget any personal items you might need.
How to get there
Dance The Medicine runs retreats at different locations. For the Quinta São José dos Montes venue in Tomar, Portugal, the address is Estrada Municipal 530-1 nº 134. Please visit the specific event page for detailed arrival instructions for your chosen retreat.
Please visit the specific event pages on the Dance The Medicine website for details on how to book your chosen retreat.
Retreats start from EUR444. Specific pricing details and what is included can be found on the individual event pages.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of dance is practiced at Dance The Medicine retreats?
Dance The Medicine focuses on ecstatic dance, which is a freeform movement practice. It's not about learning specific steps or choreography, but rather about moving authentically and allowing your body to express itself without judgment.
Are these retreats suitable for beginners with no dance experience?
Absolutely! Dance The Medicine is designed for everyone, regardless of their dance experience. The emphasis is on personal expression and trusting your body's innate wisdom, making it welcoming for all levels.
What kind of food is served during the retreats?
Meals at Dance The Medicine retreats are vegetarian and vegan-friendly. They can also accommodate ovo-lacto, gluten-free, and other special dietary requirements. Please inform the center of your needs when booking.
Where are the retreats held?
Dance The Medicine hosts retreats at various serene venues. For example, in 2026, they have retreats planned at Oasis Al Hamam in Spain and Quinta São José dos Montes in Portugal. Full venue details are available on each event page.
What should I bring to a Dance The Medicine retreat?
Since the focus is on movement, comfortable clothing that allows for free expression is recommended. As retreats are held in natural settings, consider packing layers and items for enjoying amenities like a swimming pool. Specific packing suggestions may be provided for each retreat location.
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