For 90 minutes, the music carries the room from slow and grounded, up into something wilder, and back down into stillness. You move however your body wants to: fast or slow, on the floor, eyes closed, alone or with someone. There’s no wrong way to do it, and nobody’s watching or judging because we’re all in it together.
There is no performance aspect here — no DJ for people to focus on, no need to “look” a certain way, no need to push yourself, and no over-the-top ultra spiritual fluff. Just a community of movers and shakers coming together to interact and share dance.
We welcome families and dancers from other communities. We welcome Ticos, expats, and visitors. All are welcome.
How it works
- The dance floor is talk-free. Words stay outside so the body can do the talking. Smiles, eye contact and laughter are all welcome. You’re welcome to talk outside of the Shala.
- Bare feet are ideal. You can wear socks or soft indoor shoes (please respect the floor), and light clothes you can sweat in. Bring water. Some people might find the music loud, so earplugs (especially for little ones) can be a great idea.
- Arrive a few minutes early to settle in. We start when the music starts, at 3:33 — no opening circle. The closing circle is always optional, but it’s a great way to share and connect with community afterwards (and we keep it short).
Bring the kids
Children are welcome, and under 12s come free. They usually get ecstatic dance better than the adults do: they just move. Parents keep an eye on their own little ones.
Dancing with others
If you’d like to dance with someone, invite them with your eyes or a gesture. A hand on the heart, a “namaste”, or simply turning away means “no, thank you,”.
I know, it can be vulnerable, maybe seem a bit weird if you’re new to it. It felt that way for me once… and now, it’s an incredible way to celebrate being embodied together.
Format:
🕒 3:33 PM — Music begins. No opening circle, just show up and slide into non-verbal movement.
🕒 Around 5:00 PM — Music ends. Brief closing circle to bring us all together and to share upcoming community events.
🍲 After — Invitation to stay for dinner at Kinkara all together (purchased separately).