Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 5Rhythms dance space agreements?
To create a safe and judgment-free space, this floor is for dancers only; there are no observers, only participants. A shared container is built by arriving on time and staying from the opening beat to the final circle. Adults are expected to be responsible for their own wellbeing.
All bodies, ages, abilities, genders, nationalities, and backgrounds are welcome here; diversity is our strength. To maintain a clear space for practice, this is a substance-free environment.
Communication happens using movement, not words. Please be aware of and respect each other’s bodies and boundaries. Touch is an invitation, not an expectation; honor each other’s space and only connect physically when it is clearly welcomed by both.
Dancing happens barefoot, in grippy socks, or soft dance shoes to keep us grounded and safe. Synthetic perfumes are avoided to support a breathable atmosphere.
Phones are turned off to protect the privacy of the room. Taking photos, recording videos, or using Shazam is strictly forbidden.
What is the difference between a class and a workshop?
Classes are short-format Waves sessions, the foundational 5Rhythms map, that occur on a regular (generally weekly) schedule and typically last for 2 hours. Our weekly classes are open to anyone from new-comers to long-time practitioners. Workshops are longer-format events (from half-day to multiple days) that explore one or more of the 5Rhythms maps (Waves, Heartbeat, Cycles, Mirrors, etc.) providing an opportunity for in-depth study. Attendance at workshops may require prerequisites of a certain number of hours of, or previous attendance at other 5Rhythms classes or workshops.
Do I need experience or some minimum level of fitness?
No experience or level of fitness is required to begin your 5Rhythms practice.
I have/had an injury. Can I still do 5Rhythms?
The 5Rhythms is a simple and flexible practice that can be experienced by anyone regardless of their physical limitations. Because there is no specific “routine” to follow you will be able to participate at your own pace, within your own capacity to move.
Are 5Rhythms classes appropriate for children?
5Rhythms can be wonderful for children, however typically our regular 5Rhythms classes are geared towards adults. Unless a class is specifically listed as a family/all-ages class, or a class specifically for children, please email us (admin@plesritmova.net) ahead of time to explore whether our class will be a good fit for your child/teen. Thank you!
What can I expect when I first arrive at 5Rhythms?
When you arrive at 5Rhythms you will check-in with the registration table near the entrance to let them know you are here. Assistants at the reg table can answer any questions you may have about the class or the venue. When doors open to the dance floor, participants enter in silence, leaving their belongings near the entrance to the space, and bringing just their water bottle and an extra layer of clothing if desired to a spot along the edge of the dance floor. Most classes and workshops begin with a warm-up movement practice right away. You will hear some gentle music playing as you enter, and you can come straight on to the floor and begin to stretch and warm-up your body in the ways that feel good for you in that moment. Sometimes it feels good to lie down on the ground at the start, or to take a gentle walk through the space. There will be some guidance from the teacher that will encourage a settling in and tuning in to what movement your body may be asking for.
What happens during a 5Rhythms dance?
While every 5Rhythms class/workshop/special event is different, each time we gather to dance 5Rhythms, we co-create a sacred space where our bodies, hearts, minds, and spirits are awakened and encouraged to explore and express what is alive in that moment. Classes provide basic instruction in the 5Rhythms practice, whether that is the full Wave (the 5Rhythms in sequence) or focusing on one or another of the Rhythms and its energies. There will be a warm-up period, some verbal teaching, and exercises for exploring the teaching. Teachers may use a variety of different kinds of music, or no music at all, to support embodying the Rhythms. There may be a combination of individual, partnered, and group work. Some 5Rhythms dances are more structured than others but all provide the opportunity to be moved by and with the 5Rhythms. You are welcome to leave the studio to use the washroom or re-fill your water bottle whenever you need to. Please just do so quietly so as not to disturb others in the group.
What do I need to bring to a 5Rhythms class?
It is suggested that you dress comfortably in clothing that you don’t mind sweating in and allows you a full range of motion. You may want to bring layers so you don’t get cold, and/or a small towel to dry off with if you sweat a lot. We dance bare-footed or in light-soled dance shoes. Bring a bottle of water and your curiosity. That’s all you need.
What if I’m REALLY terrified?
First of all remember that right on the other side of that terror there’s excitement. Take to heart that the 5Rhythms practice has the room for you to move with however you’re feeling. There’s nothing to get right and you can’t get it wrong so there is nothing for you to “do” except move in whatever way feels right in the moment. You will not be the first person to be so terrified that you just barely made it over the threshold of the door. Once in the room you will be encouraged to move to your full potential and you will also have the space to move into your potential from wherever you are in the moment.
How do I become a teacher?
In the practice of anything, some of us reach a point where we are called to give back to our community. If you are interested in becoming a teacher the best way to start is to dive into regular weekly classes and workshops whenever possible, to deepen your embodiment and understanding of the practice. Please note that only classes and workshops with members of the 5Rhythms Teachers’ Association (listed at www.5Rhythms.com) will count towards prerequisite hours.
Please visit http://www.5rhythms.com/gabrielle-roths-5rhythms/the-dancing-path/teacher-trainings/ for more information about Teacher Training prerequisites and the application process.
Should I dance with just one 5Rhythms teacher?
In a word, “no”. The 5Rhythms practice is rich with the teachings of many hundreds of certified teachers internationally – each teacher bringing their own unique flavour, style, and passion for the work. Many of us have 1 or 2 core teachers who we rely on based on geography or particular resonance, but you are enthusiastically encouraged to seek out classes and workshops with the other certified teachers of this practice!
Where can I find an international list of 5Rhythms teachers?
5Rhythms Global has an online search tool that allows you to search for classes and workshops with all certified 5Rhythms teachers who are also accredited members by the 5Rhythms Teacher’s Association.
How to bring 5Rhythms in my community?
Please contact us at: admin@plesritmova.net for more information. If I am not available, I can connect you with other teachers.
Big thanks for Layah Jane Singer Wilson for creating this FAQ, and big thanks to Sarah Jane Johnson, organizer of South London Dance Community for inspiring me with her Dance Etiquette.
