The Dances of Universal Peace are offered at Southwest Sufi Community throughout the year. The Dances of Universal Peace were begun by Sufi mystic, Murshid Samuel Lewis, as a way to illuminate the unity of religious ideals and to forge a community of remembrance where song, dance and fellowship carry us to union with our divine nature. The dances use simple movements, music and lyrics to touch that spiritual essence.
We join hands, forming a circle. Throughout the afternoon, the leader teaches the simple movements, melodies and chants, and sacred words. The songs and movements include themes of peace, love, healing, and the celebration of life's great mystery. Dancers focus on heart-opening harmony, creating a sense of solidarity and community, while celebrating the underlying unity of all spiritual traditions. By experiencing these many traditions, we experience a greater understanding and appreciation of universal ideals.
The mood of the Dances is infinitely variable, evoking feelings of love, joy and compassion. Whether invoking compassion of the Buddhist Qwan Yin or celebrating the playful energy of Krishna, for example, dancers take part in a dynamic relationship between the group, the self, and spirit.
No musical or dance experience is necessary and everyone is invited to join in. We'll share Dances, Zikr, chanting and spiritual practices. If you would like to stay overnight on Friday or Saturday night, please contact us at sscvoc@gmail.com.