BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Farima Dance - ECPv6.16.2//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Farima Dance X-ORIGINAL-URL:http://farimadance.com X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Farima Dance REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Europe/Istanbul BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0300 TZOFFSETTO:+0300 TZNAME:+03 DTSTART:20210101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Los_Angeles BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20170312T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20171105T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20180311T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20181104T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20190310T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20191103T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20200308T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20201101T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20210314T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20211107T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20220313T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20221106T090000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Europe/Moscow BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0300 TZOFFSETTO:+0300 TZNAME:MSK DTSTART:20180101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20200308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20201101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20210314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20211107T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20220313T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20221106T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Asia/Beirut BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0300 TZNAME:EEST DTSTART:20200328T220000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0300 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:EET DTSTART:20201024T210000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0300 TZNAME:EEST DTSTART:20210327T220000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0300 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:EET DTSTART:20211030T210000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0200 TZOFFSETTO:+0300 TZNAME:EEST DTSTART:20220326T220000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0300 TZOFFSETTO:+0200 TZNAME:EET DTSTART:20221029T210000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Istanbul:20220115T160000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Istanbul:20220115T180000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20220113T045340Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220113T050117Z UID:25135-1642262400-1642269600@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Istanbul Sema Gathering DESCRIPTION:“Love is the bridge between you and everything.”\n~ Rumi \nJoin us to celebrate our fellowship in love and spirit with whirling dance (Sema)\, meditation\, live music\, prayers\, and poetry. We will create a sacred\, supportive space where we can all release whatever energy no longer serves us\, relax and open our heart\, body\, and mind. We will discover the power and mystery of ancient dances and rituals – a gateway for self-growth and spiritual transformation–through prayers\, whirling\, music\, and love. \nDuring our Sema Gathering\, Master Farima Berenji and other guest Sufi Masters will lead Zikr\, Sema\, Khorasan Semah\, and other rituals and ceremonies. \nYou are welcome to set and feel the healing energy\, bring a poem to share\, join our Zikr\, pray with us\, laugh or cry… as we journey together to be closer to the light. \n\nMusicians — Feel free to bring your instruments and join our music circle. Let your heart guide your music during our open floor Sema\nSemazens — Open your heart and whirl!\nLovers\, Seekers\, and Watchers — Come and join our sacred circle. You are welcome to set and feel the healing energy\, bring a poem to share\, join our Zikr\, pray with us\, laugh or cry… as we journey together to be closer to the light.\n\nOpen your heart! Listen! Turn\, dance\, and move in anyway that makes you feel alive! \nRegistration\nThere is no fee for this sema. We are organizing this sema from the heart but we kindly ask participants to help us by making a donation or volunteering. Remember this is a private event and you need to make sure you contact us and register in advance. A Facebook notification will not be counted as registration. \nDue to Covid restrictions\, I will only accept a limited amount of participants. You must contact me and register your name. \nPlease send us an email to farimadance @ gmail.com with your full name to confirm with us. Thank you. 😊 \nGuidelines and Rules\n\nWe kindly ask for no talking on the whirling floor and to keep the Sema area quiet at all times. Respect yourself as well as those around you.\nFor this gathering please wear proper and respectful clothing\, whirling skirt (optional)\, socks or soft-soled shoes.\nPlease do not smoke inside and around the room. There will be some designated areas for smoking.\nPlease keep the Sufi House clean. Clean after yourself and help others to keep the area clean.\n\nEnglish: Farima Berenji URL:http://farimadance.com/event/sema-gathering-istanbul/ LOCATION:Addar Center\, Kumbaracı Ykş. No:50\, Istanbul\, Turkey CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema) ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/SemaGatheringTR2022-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Istanbul:20220108T150000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Istanbul:20220108T180000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20220104T212417Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220104T212653Z UID:25098-1641654000-1641664800@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Dance of the Soul (Sema Gathering and Workshop) DESCRIPTION:Discover the power and mystery of sacred dance with mediation\, music\, poetry\, whirling and ancient Healing Practices. \nJoin Farima for a Sufi Whirling Workshop and Sema Gathering\, with sacred music\, meditation\, whirling\, Zikr (Sufi Prayer) and Sohbet (Sufi Talk). We will create a sacred\, supportive space where we can all release whatever energy no longer serves us\, relax and open our heart\, body\, and mind. We will discover the power and mystery of ancient dances and rituals – a gateway for self-growth and spiritual transformation– through movement\, music\, love\, and stillness. Be moved by beautiful\, sacred music \nOverview\nOur gathering is NOT a performance. More details about sacred dance and Sema training may be found here. \n\nFirst join for a welcoming circle and Farima will lead us into her unique 4 element breathing meditation or 7 mode music meditation and relaxation.\nWe will progress into various Sufi whirling workshop techniques and styles.\nNext we will progress into a prayer and open floor whirling with both live and recorded world sacred music\, poetry\, and drumming.\nWe will close with a Zikr (Sufi Prayers)\, ancient Iranian Shamanic rituals\, sharing\, a gratitude circle\, and Sohbet (Sufi Talk) by Dervish and Semazen\, Farima Berenji.\n\nFarima’s teachings are based on ancient Iranic rituals\, science of whirling\, and the sacred geometry of whirling. We will learn essential techniques of whirling preparation\, maintaining balance and posture\, controlling dizziness\, self-focus during turning\, breath work\, and more. \nBy donation \nIn advance:\n\nWe kindly ask for no talking on the whirling floor and to keep the Sema area quiet at all times. Respect yourself as well as those around you.\nPlease wear comfortable clothing (white or light colored if possible) and wear socks or soft soled shoes.\nAvoid eating a large meal 1-2 hours prior\nBring poetry to share.\nBring a musical instrument that you play.\n\nNo experience necessary to begin participating. With help anyone can learn and master whirling techniques while respecting one’s own limitations. \nFarima Berenji\nFarima Berenji Farima Berenji is an Iranian-born scholar and an award winning\, internationally acclaimed performing artist\, choreographer\, instructor\, lecturer\, dance ethnologist\, Sufi master\, and archaeologist specializing in classical\, folkloric\, and sacred dances of Persia and the Silk Road. Her training spans a lifetime of intensive collaboration and research with master artists\, scholars\, and spiritual teachers worldwide. She is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective\, a worldwide collaborative devoted to teach dance technique\, interpret\, illustrate\, present\, and perform dances of the Silk Road. In 2018\, Farima became the first American-Iranian woman honored to be a TEDx dance speaker and performer. Farima is a member of the International Dance Council (CID – UNESCO)\, UNESCO\, and the National Folk Organization (NFO). Read more.. URL:http://farimadance.com/event/workshop-and-sema-turkey/ LOCATION:Addar – Istanbul\, Kumbaracı Ykş. No:50\, 2XHG+FJ Beyoğlu\, İstanbul\, Turkey CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema),Workshop ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/SemaGatheringTR2022.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20211221T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20211221T223000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20211103T175913Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220227T021144Z UID:24732-1640115000-1640125800@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Yalda: A Festival of Light DESCRIPTION:Join us for an evening celebrating Yalda (winter solstice)\, the longest night of the year. \nShab-e Yalda (Yalda Night) is the Persian Winter Solstice Celebration on the eve of the Winter Solstice. The Persians believed that this night is the night of the birth of Ahura Mazda and Mithra\, Persian God of Light and Truth. \nThe longest and darkest night of the year is a time when friends and family gather together to eat\, drink and read poetry (especially Hafez) and Shahnameh until well after midnight. Fruits and nuts are eaten and pomegranates and watermelons are particularly significant. The red color in these fruits symbolizes the crimson hues of dawn and glow of life. The poems of Divan-e Hafez\, which can be found in the bookcases of most Iranian families\, are read or recited on various occasions such as this festival and Nowruz. Shab-e Yalda was officially added to Iran’s List of National Treasures in a special ceremony in 2008. Yalda is observed in Iran\, Azerbaijan\, Afghanistan\, Tajikistan\, by Iraqi Kurdistan\, and in Turkey by Kurds and Azeris. \nPresented by Eastern Arts and the Simorgh Dance Collective\, this second annual online gathering will be accompanied by traditional music\, dance\, poetry reading\, presentations\, quizzes\, stories\, and more! \nAll are welcome. Please register in advance to obtain a link to the online presentation. \nRegister \nPlease consider making a donation at http://donate.farimadance.com to support our artists below \nArtists\nSimorgh Dance Collective\nSimorgh Dance Collective The Simorgh Dance Collective is a world community of artists devoted to cross-cultural dialogue and artistic collaboration through traditional\, classical\, and sacred dance styles of the Silk Road. The Collective currently has member companies and artist affiliations in Alaska\, British Columbia\, Turkey\, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Read more..\nEastern Arts\nEastern Arts Based in Salt Lake City\, Utah\, Eastern Arts is a non-profit organization of dancers\, artists\, musicians\, and scholars who present the folkways and traditions of many lands and peoples. Eastern Arts originated in 1960 and has been active internationally presenting dance and music of lands from Asia to North Africa\, from India to the Balkans in concerts\, workshops\, publications\, audio and video productions.\nFarima Berenji\nFarima Berenji Farima Berenji is an award winning\, internationally acclaimed performing artist\, instructor\, choreographer\, and dance ethnologist. A master instructor and performer in Persian and Sufi dance\, she specializes in ancient\, sacred\, classical\, and folkloric dances of Persia and Central Asia. She is honored to be the first Iranian woman to direct a Persian dance company to perform during receptions for President Obama and President Biden. Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective\, founder of Dance of the Soul\, she is the advisory council member of Mosaic America\, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO)\, Eastern Arts\, National Folk Organization\, and the first Iranian-American woman TEDx lecturer and performer in the field of dance. Recognized as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical dance ethnology\, she travels worldwide to record\, research\, lecture\, perform\, educate\, and to inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. Read more.. \n\nSeyed Salman Hosseini\nSeyed Salman Seyed Salman Hosseini possesses a bachelor degree in music ethnology and is an Iranian traditional music researcher\, composer and a master musician of tambour\, setar\, tar\, and rebab. He directs the traditional Persian music ensemble Cherikeh which has been performing sacred and traditional music for many years. Seyed has produced many albums including Javdanegni and Tabeh Ghaleh. He is the music director and composer for films such as Song of God and Gadam Yar. Seyed has composed and performed more than 40 concerts and TV programs including composing music for national broadcasts of Iran. He has performed professionally in Iran\, Germany\, Syria\, and the Iraqi Kurdistan region. Additionally\, he is a Sufi master and has his own school of music and mysticism.\n\nNariman Assadi\nNariman Assadi Nariman Assadi was born in Hamedan\, Iran on January 1\, 1992. Raised in Tehran\, he always felt drawn to percussion instruments. At the age of thirteen\, he began studying tombak under Master Amir Mogharab Samadi. From 2008 to 2013\, Nariman performed at Vahdat Hall as a soloist and with the Persian Percussion Ensemble at Pars Academy\, the premier music academy for children. After mastering tombak\, he then began learning Daf under the great Master Bijan Kamkar. With a strong understanding of the daf and tombak\, Nariman started learning barbat (Oud) under Master Mohammad Firouzi. \nIn 2015\, Nariman immigrated to the United States. He immediately began his professional music career by performing and attending festivals. In 2017\, he started learning percussion performance and world music with Professor Daniel Kennedy at Sacramento State University. Along with being a member of various ensembles\, Nariman teaches daf\, tombak\, other percussions\, and music for children in Davis\, Sacramento\, and the Bay Area. He also offers music classes and workshops online. Read more..\nDr. Lloyd Miller\nDr. Lloyd Miller Dr. Lloyd Miller received his PhD in Persian Language and Literature from the University of Utah after spending seven years living in Iran where he had a weekly prime time television program titled “Kurosh Ali Khan va dastan”. His program featured musicians and other artists from around the world. Lloyd was urged to leave Iran during the revolution in the late 70s\, though he had never planned to leave. An expert in world music including American jazz\, Lloyd has made numerous recordings. The most popular being “Oriental Jazz” first released in 1968 and recently re-released by Vinyl Me Please selling thousands of copies worldwide. A film about Lloyd’s extraordinary life\, including 6 years in Europe as a jazzman and university student where he played with some of the most well-known musicians of the time\, was released in 2019 as Sufi\, Saint & Swinger. It was in Paris that Lloyd met Dr. Daryush Safvat who became his lifelong mentor and who taught Lloyd the importance and significance of Persian classical music. Founder of Eastern Arts\, with the blessing of Dr. Safvat\, Lloyd has taught music\, philosophy\, history\, dance and culture to thousands of students at various universities for over 40 years. Read more… \nKatherine St. John\nKatherine St. John Katherine St. John received a Master’s degree in dance pedagogy from Brigham Young University and a Master’s in Persian from the University of Utah and completed coursework for a PhD in dance history and theory from the University of California. Katherine has performed and choreographed for theater\, dance companies\, operas and at universities for 30 plus years. She was an artist in residence teaching world dance to students throughout Utah and neighboring states for 20 years. Her Master’s thesis is about dance in Herat Afghanistan from 1970-1980 during Russian interference. Read more.. \nand others… URL:http://farimadance.com/event/yalda-2021/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Fundraiser,Lecture,Meditation Gathering (Sema),Online,Party,Performance ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Yalda-2021.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20211212T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20211212T113000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20211128T015455Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220227T021116Z UID:24855-1639303200-1639308600@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Whirling and Sema Celebrating Sheb-i Arus DESCRIPTION:Join us to celebrate our fellowship in love and spirit with whirling dance (Sema)\, meditation\, music\, prayers\, and poetry. Sheb-i Arus commemorates the death and thereby union between the Persian mystical poet Khodavandeghtar Jalaludin Mohammad Balkhi (Rumi) and the universe. \nOur ceremony will be shared multi-nationally online with Master Seyed Salman Hosseini\, Master Farima Berenji\, and with live music by Dr. Lloyd Miller\, Nariman Assadi\, and Evan Phillips. \nThere will be sacred and mystical Sufi poetry (Farsi and English)\, meditation\, whirling with live Sufi music\, and Yarsani zikr. Please join masters and dervishes of the Yarsani and Mevlevi Sufi order for this sacred commemoration. \nWe will whirl and journey together to celebrate love\, unity\, and allow the light to enter our soul. Open your heart! Listen! Turn\, dance\, and move in anyway that makes you feel alive! \n$10-15 sliding scale donation. Your donation is greatly appreciated. \nOur gathering is not a performance. Come and join our sacred circle. Everyone is welcome to practice and/or observe. \nRegister \nGuidelines and Tips\n\nWe kindly ask for no interruptions during the ceremony. We will mute all participants during the ceremony then unmute for open participation. \nIf you are whirling from home prepare to wear comfortable clothing\, whirling skirt (optional)\, socks or soft-soled shoes. Avoid eating a large meal 2 hours prior.\n\nFarima Berenji\nFarima Berenji Farima Berenji is an award winning\, internationally acclaimed performing artist\, instructor\, choreographer\, and dance ethnologist. A master instructor and performer in Persian and Sufi dance\, she specializes in ancient\, sacred\, classical\, and folkloric dances of Persia and Central Asia. She is honored to be the first Iranian woman to direct a Persian dance company to perform during receptions for President Obama and President Biden. Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective\, founder of Dance of the Soul\, she is the advisory council member of Mosaic America\, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO)\, Eastern Arts\, National Folk Organization\, and the first Iranian-American woman TEDx lecturer and performer in the field of dance. Recognized as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical dance ethnology\, she travels worldwide to record\, research\, lecture\, perform\, educate\, and to inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. Read more.. \n\nSeyed Salman Hosseini\nSeyed Salman Seyed Salman Hosseini possesses a bachelor degree in music ethnology and is an Iranian traditional music researcher\, composer and a master musician of tambour\, setar\, tar\, and rebab. He directs the traditional Persian music ensemble Cherikeh which has been performing sacred and traditional music for many years. Seyed has produced many albums including Javdanegni and Tabeh Ghaleh. He is the music director and composer for films such as Song of God and Gadam Yar. Seyed has composed and performed more than 40 concerts and TV programs including composing music for national broadcasts of Iran. He has performed professionally in Iran\, Germany\, Syria\, and the Iraqi Kurdistan region. Additionally\, he is a Sufi master and has his own school of music and mysticism.\n\nNariman Assadi\nNariman Assadi Nariman Assadi was born in Hamedan\, Iran on January 1\, 1992. Raised in Tehran\, he always felt drawn to percussion instruments. At the age of thirteen\, he began studying tombak under Master Amir Mogharab Samadi. From 2008 to 2013\, Nariman performed at Vahdat Hall as a soloist and with the Persian Percussion Ensemble at Pars Academy\, the premier music academy for children. After mastering tombak\, he then began learning Daf under the great Master Bijan Kamkar. With a strong understanding of the daf and tombak\, Nariman started learning barbat (Oud) under Master Mohammad Firouzi. \nIn 2015\, Nariman immigrated to the United States. He immediately began his professional music career by performing and attending festivals. In 2017\, he started learning percussion performance and world music with Professor Daniel Kennedy at Sacramento State University. Along with being a member of various ensembles\, Nariman teaches daf\, tombak\, other percussions\, and music for children in Davis\, Sacramento\, and the Bay Area. He also offers music classes and workshops online. Read more..\nDr. Lloyd Miller\nDr. Lloyd Miller Dr. Lloyd Miller received his PhD in Persian Language and Literature from the University of Utah after spending seven years living in Iran where he had a weekly prime time television program titled “Kurosh Ali Khan va dastan”. His program featured musicians and other artists from around the world. Lloyd was urged to leave Iran during the revolution in the late 70s\, though he had never planned to leave. An expert in world music including American jazz\, Lloyd has made numerous recordings. The most popular being “Oriental Jazz” first released in 1968 and recently re-released by Vinyl Me Please selling thousands of copies worldwide. A film about Lloyd’s extraordinary life\, including 6 years in Europe as a jazzman and university student where he played with some of the most well-known musicians of the time\, was released in 2019 as Sufi\, Saint & Swinger. It was in Paris that Lloyd met Dr. Daryush Safvat who became his lifelong mentor and who taught Lloyd the importance and significance of Persian classical music. Founder of Eastern Arts\, with the blessing of Dr. Safvat\, Lloyd has taught music\, philosophy\, history\, dance and culture to thousands of students at various universities for over 40 years. Read more… URL:http://farimadance.com/event/sheb-i-arus-2021/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema),Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/DanceOfTheSoul-ShebiArus2021.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Moscow:20211023T120000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Moscow:20211024T120000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20211014T221423Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211018T172606Z UID:24643-1634990400-1635076800@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Bursa Sema Gathering DESCRIPTION:Sufi brothers and sisters\, you are invited to participate in a Sema Gathering taking place at the Uludağ Forest Farm in Bursa\, Turkey from October 23 noon to October 24 noon. Please note that this is an invitation only and that all coming must register in advance for RSVP. If you wish to invite anyone please contact us and register their names. No entry without advance registration. \nWe will create a sacred\, supportive space where we can all release whatever energy no longer serves us\, relax and open our heart\, body\, and mind. We will discover the power and mystery of ancient dances and rituals – a gateway for self-growth and spiritual transformation–through prayers\, whirling\, music\, and love. Be moved by beautiful Sufi and Sacred music\, songs\, chanting\, poetry\, rituals\, and dance in prayers! \nDuring our Sema Gathering\, Master Farima Berenji and other guest Sufi Masters will lead Zikr\, Sema\, Khorasan Semah\, and other rituals and ceremonies. \nYou are welcome to set and feel the healing energy\, bring a poem to share\, join our Zikr\, pray with us\, laugh or cry… as we journey together to be closer to the light. \n\nMusicians — Feel free to bring your instruments and join our music circle. Let your heart guide your music during our open floor Sema\nSemazens — Open your heart and whirl!\nLovers\, Seekers\, and Watchers — Come and join our sacred circle. You are welcome to set and feel the healing energy\, bring a poem to share\, join our Zikr\, pray with us\, laugh or cry… as we journey together to be closer to the light.\n\nOpen your heart! Listen! Turn\, dance\, and move in anyway that makes you feel alive! \nRegistration\nThere is no fee for this sema. We are organizing this sema from the heart but we kindly ask participants to help us by making a donation or to volunteer in helping us with food\, cleaning\, organizations and other expenses. \nRemember this is a private event and you need to make sure you contact us and register in advance. A Facebook notification will not be counted as registration. \nDue to Covid restrictions\, I will only accept a limited amount of participants. You must contact me and register your name. \nPlease send us an email to farimadance @ gmail.com with your full name to confirm with us. Thank you. 😊 \nGuidelines and Rules\n\nWe kindly ask for no talking on the whirling floor and to keep the Sema area quiet at all times. Respect yourself as well as those around you.\nFor this gathering please wear proper and respectful clothing\, whirling skirt (optional)\, socks or soft-soled shoes.\nAbsolutely no drugs or alcohol is allowed for this event. Using any illegal substance will be severely enforced. Organizers have the right to block entry to any participants who do not respect these rules.\nPlease do not smoke inside and around the Sufi House. There will be some designated areas for smoking.\nPlease keep the Sufi House clean. Clean after yourself and help others to keep the area clean.\n\nEnglish: Farima Berenji URL:http://farimadance.com/event/bursa-sema-gathering/ LOCATION:Uludağ Forest Farm\, Osmangazi\, Bursa\, Turkey CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema) ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/SemaGatheringTR2021-A.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20210929T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20210929T210000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20210924T024338Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220227T021251Z UID:24487-1632943800-1632949200@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Dance of the Soul DESCRIPTION:Celebrating Rumi’s Birthday\n“Love is the bridge between you and everything.”\n~ Rumi \nJoin us to celebrate our fellowship in love and spirit with whirling dance (Sema)\, meditation\, live music\, prayers\, and poetry. We will be celebrating the birthday of Jalāl ad-Dīn Mohammad Rūmī \nOur ceremony will be shared multi-nationally online with live music including Pir Seyed Salman\, Master Farima Berenji\, Dr. Lloyd Miller\, Evan Phillips\, and Homeyra Banejad. \nJoin us for sacred and mystical Sufi poetry (Farsi and English)\, meditation\, whirling with live music\, prayer\, and zikr. \nWe will whirl and journey together to celebrate love\, unity\, and allow the light to enter our soul. Open your heart! Listen! Turn\, dance\, and move in anyway that makes you feel alive! \n$10 sliding scale donation. Your donation is greatly appreciated. \nOur gathering is not a performance. Come and join our sacred circle. You are welcome to set and feel the healing energy and prepare a poem to share as we journey together to be closer to the light. \nRegister \nGuidelines and Tips\n\nWe kindly ask for no interruptions during the ceremony. We will mute all participants during the ceremony then unmute for open participation. \nIf you are whirling from home prepare to wear comfortable clothing\, whirling skirt (optional)\, socks or soft-soled shoes. Avoid eating a large meal 2 hours prior.\n\nFarima Berenji\nFarima Berenji Farima Berenji is an Iranian-born scholar and an award winning\, internationally acclaimed performing artist\, choreographer\, instructor\, lecturer\, dance ethnologist\, Sufi master\, and archaeologist specializing in classical\, folkloric\, and sacred dances of Persia and the Silk Road. Her training spans a lifetime of intensive collaboration and research with master artists\, scholars\, and spiritual teachers worldwide. She is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective\, a worldwide collaborative devoted to teach dance technique\, interpret\, illustrate\, present\, and perform dances of the Silk Road. In 2018\, Farima became the first American-Iranian woman honored to be a TEDx dance speaker and performer. Farima is a member of the International Dance Council (CID – UNESCO)\, UNESCO\, and the National Folk Organization (NFO). Read more.. \nSeyed Salman Hosseini\nSeyed Salman Seyed Salman Hosseini possesses a bachelor degree in music ethnology and is an Iranian traditional music researcher\, composer and a master musician of tambour\, setar\, tar\, and rebab. He directs the traditional Persian music ensemble Cherikeh which has been performing sacred and traditional music for many years. Seyed has produced many albums including Javdanegni and Tabeh Ghaleh. He is the music director and composer for films such as Song of God and Gadam Yar. Seyed has composed and performed more than 40 concerts and TV programs including composing music for national broadcasts of Iran. He has performed professionally in Iran\, Germany\, Syria\, and the Iraqi Kurdistan region. Additionally\, he is a Sufi master and has his own school of music and mysticism. \nDr. Lloyd Miller\nDr. Lloyd Miller Dr. Lloyd Miller received his PhD in Persian Language and Literature from the University of Utah after spending seven years living in Iran where he had a weekly prime time television program titled “Kurosh Ali Khan va dastan”. His program featured musicians and other artists from around the world. Lloyd was urged to leave Iran during the revolution in the late 70s\, though he had never planned to leave. An expert in world music including American jazz\, Lloyd has made numerous recordings. The most popular being “Oriental Jazz” first released in 1968 and recently re-released by Vinyl Me Please selling thousands of copies worldwide. A film about Lloyd’s extraordinary life\, including 6 years in Europe as a jazzman and university student where he played with some of the most well-known musicians of the time\, is soon to be released. Titled “” the film will be screened in Finland October 25 at the World Music Expo. It was in Paris that Lloyd met Dr. Daryush Safvat who became his lifelong mentor and who taught Lloyd the importance and significance of Persian classical music. Founder of Eastern Arts\, with the blessing of Dr. Safvat\, Lloyd has taught music\, philosophy\, history\, dance and culture to thousands of students at various universities for over 40 years. Read more… \nHomerya Banejad\nHomerya Banejad and Ensemble Homerya Banejad is an Iranian daf player and vocalist. As a member of the Iranian Musician Union of Iran she has performed in Iran and the US with Sima Bina\, Hamed Nikpay\, Simin Ghanem\, and many more artists! URL:http://farimadance.com/event/sema-gathering-21/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema),Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/DanceOfTheSoul-9-21.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20210905T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20210905T163000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20210705T010817Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210813T075756Z UID:23907-1630850400-1630859400@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Dance and Rhythm of the Soul DESCRIPTION:Sema Gathering (Sufi Whirling) and Workshops \nLearn essential sacred rhythms on percussion with Nariman Assadi and Sufi whirling with Farima Berenji in this combined Sufi sacred music and dance workshop for musicians and dancers. Following the workshop participants will drum and dance in a Sema lead by both masters. \nMusic makes it possible to bring our awareness to the present and feel united with ourselves and the universe. Music is like a journey from the mind to the heart. Whirling dance originated thousands of years ago with the ancient Persians in the practice of devotion\, healing\, and meditation. Then as today\, music\, poetry\, and movement unite to help connect the body\, mind\, and soul in harmony and healing. \nFarima will teach the essentials of whirling meditation including preparation\, balance and posture\, controlling dizziness\, self-focus\, breathwork\, and more. Nariman will illustrate common Sufi drum rhythms for practice with the participants. \nGuidelines and Tips \n\n Dancers please wear comfortable clothing (white or light colored if possible) and wear socks or soft soled shoes. Avoid eating a large meal 1-2 hours prior.\nMusicians should attend ready to practice Sufi rhythms with their own daf or hand drum.\n\nThe workshop and Sema will be held online however we invite participants to join us in the studio with a mask. \nRegister \n\nNariman Assadi\nNariman Assadi Nariman Assadi was born in Hamedan\, Iran on January 1\, 1992. Raised in Tehran\, he always felt drawn to percussion instruments. At the age of thirteen\, he began studying tombak under Master Amir Mogharab Samadi. From 2008 to 2013\, Nariman performed at Vahdat Hall as a soloist and with the Persian Percussion Ensemble at Pars Academy\, the premier music academy for children. After mastering tombak\, he then began learning Daf under the great Master Bijan Kamkar. With a strong understanding of the daf and tombak\, Nariman started learning barbat (Oud) under Master Mohammad Firouzi. \nIn 2015\, Nariman immigrated to the United States. He immediately began his professional music career by performing and attending festivals. In 2017\, he started learning percussion performance and world music with Professor Daniel Kennedy at Sacramento State University. Along with being a member of various ensembles\, Nariman teaches daf\, tombak\, other percussions\, and music for children in Davis\, Sacramento\, and the Bay Area. He also offers music classes and workshops online. Read more..\nFarima Berenji\nFarima Berenji Farima Berenji is an Iranian-born scholar and an award winning\, internationally acclaimed performing artist\, choreographer\, instructor\, lecturer\, dance ethnologist\, Sufi master\, and archaeologist specializing in classical\, folkloric\, and sacred dances of Persia and the Silk Road. Her training spans a lifetime of intensive collaboration and research with master artists\, scholars\, and spiritual teachers worldwide. She is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective\, a worldwide collaborative devoted to teach dance technique\, interpret\, illustrate\, present\, and perform dances of the Silk Road. In 2018\, Farima became the first American-Iranian woman honored to be a TEDx dance speaker and performer. Farima is a member of the International Dance Council (CID – UNESCO)\, UNESCO\, and the National Folk Organization (NFO). Read more.. URL:http://farimadance.com/event/dance-and-rhythm/ LOCATION:Center for Creative Living\, 1460 Koll Circle\, Suite C\, San Jose\, CA\, 95112\, United States CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema),Workshop ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/DanceAndRhythm-2.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20210822T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20210822T210000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20210816T194357Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210816T194642Z UID:24212-1629658800-1629666000@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Dance of the Soul (Sema Gathering and Workshop) DESCRIPTION:Discover the power and mystery of sacred dance with mediation\, music\, poetry\, whirling and ancient Healing Practices. \nJoin Farima for a Sufi Whirling Workshop and Sema Gathering\, with sacred music\, meditation\, whirling\, Zikr (Sufi Prayer) and Sohbet (Sufi Talk). We will create a sacred\, supportive space where we can all release whatever energy no longer serves us\, relax and open our heart\, body\, and mind. We will discover the power and mystery of ancient dances and rituals – a gateway for self-growth and spiritual transformation– through movement\, music\, love\, and stillness. Be moved by beautiful\, sacred music \nOverview\nOur gathering is NOT a performance. More details about sacred dance and Sema training may be found here. \n\nFirst join for a welcoming circle and Farima will lead us into her unique 4 element breathing meditation or 7 mode music meditation and relaxation.\nWe will progress into various Sufi whirling workshop techniques and styles.\nNext we will progress into a prayer and open floor whirling with both live and recorded world sacred music\, poetry\, and drumming.\nWe will close with a Zikr (Sufi Prayers)\, ancient Iranian Shamanic rituals\, sharing\, a gratitude circle\, and Sohbet (Sufi Talk) by Dervish and Semazen\, Farima Berenji.\n\nFarima’s teachings are based on ancient Iranic rituals\, science of whirling\, and the sacred geometry of whirling. We will learn essential techniques of whirling preparation\, maintaining balance and posture\, controlling dizziness\, self-focus during turning\, breath work\, and more. \nPrice is $15 – 20. \nRegister \nIn advance:\n\nWe kindly ask for no talking on the whirling floor and to keep the Sema area quiet at all times. Respect yourself as well as those around you.\nPlease wear comfortable clothing (white or light colored if possible) and wear socks or soft soled shoes.\nAvoid eating a large meal 1-2 hours prior\nBring poetry to share.\nBring a musical instrument that you play.\n\nNo experience necessary to begin participating. With help anyone can learn and master whirling techniques while respecting one’s own limitations. \nFarima Berenji\nFarima Berenji Farima Berenji is an Iranian-born scholar and an award winning\, internationally acclaimed performing artist\, choreographer\, instructor\, lecturer\, dance ethnologist\, Sufi master\, and archaeologist specializing in classical\, folkloric\, and sacred dances of Persia and the Silk Road. Her training spans a lifetime of intensive collaboration and research with master artists\, scholars\, and spiritual teachers worldwide. She is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective\, a worldwide collaborative devoted to teach dance technique\, interpret\, illustrate\, present\, and perform dances of the Silk Road. In 2018\, Farima became the first American-Iranian woman honored to be a TEDx dance speaker and performer. Farima is a member of the International Dance Council (CID – UNESCO)\, UNESCO\, and the National Folk Organization (NFO). Read more.. URL:http://farimadance.com/event/dance-of-the-soul-salem/ LOCATION:Purple Door Yoga\, 10 Colonial Road\, Salem\, MA\, 01970\, United States CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema),Workshop ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/1-copy-5-2.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Beirut:20210623T110000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Beirut:20210623T170000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20210617T184712Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210619T170123Z UID:23812-1624446000-1624467600@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Whirling And Sacred Dances Of Nature DESCRIPTION:Due to overwhelming demand and for those who were unable to join Farima’s recent workshop\, we invite you to join us for a special spiritual Sufi and Sacred workshop in nature with Master Farima Berenji. Together we will call upon the spirit of nature (the trees\, flowers\, and the forest) and learn sacred dance and Sema (whirling) found in the spirals of nature. \nWe will explore the sacred geometry and the spirituality of nature and the seven sacred flowers/trees through Sufi whirling\, ancient Persian mystic dance movements\, meditation\, poetry\, and music. We will open to a deeper level of communication and interaction with nature and discover the many ways in which the Earth speaks to us. \nThe day’s activities include: \n\nFive Element Sufi Breathing\, Meditation\, and Nature Walk.\nBasic Whirling Technique for beginners.\nCommunication with plants through dance\, prayers\, and rituals.\nSema of Nature – Sufi whirling (Iranian Sufi Tradition) of the Seven Sacred flowers/trees among its mystical and healing meanings.\nPoetry\, Music\, Chanting\, Sharing Circle.\nZikr (Sufi Prayer) and Ancient Zoroastrian Prayers based on Nature\n\nThe location chosen is Pine Forest in Beit Mery \nArrival time is 10:30am. The workshop will start 11:00am sharp. \nWhat to bring: \n\nYour mask and preferred disinfectant/sanitizer. \nA poetry book or prose from which you might read and share.\nPotluck – light food like sandwiches\, pastries and fruits. Your lunch\, snacks and drinks\, and most importantly drinking water. (Please keep your choices vegetarian!)\nYoga mat or something comfortable to place and sit on the ground.\nPractical and comfortable walking shoes. (There is a downhill walk to the area where the retreat will take place)\nSoft soled shoes\, socks\, and whirling skirt (optional) for whirling\n\nRules & Guidelines: \n\nAll programs begin promptly at 11:00am. Please be respectful and arrive on time. Farima will give a single basic whirling technique training only at the start of the workshop so arrive on time. We will not go over the basic technique again that day.\nWe kindly ask for no talking on the teaching or whirling space and to keep the area quiet at all times. \nFor this gathering please wear comfortable and discreet clothing\, a whirling skirt (optional)\, socks\, or soft-soled shoes. White or light colored clothing is preferred.\nNo drugs\, alcohol or smoking are allowed for this event.\nNo video or photography is permitted unless permission is granted by the teacher/master.\n\nPlease keep the area clean and help each other to do so.\nCome with an open heart and be receptive to what comes up for you.\nIt’s a time to be of support and balance altogether in this sacred circle. We are all Love.\n\nKindly RSVP for registration\, and let’s whirl one last time! \nRSVP \nFarima Berenji\nFarima Berenji Farima Berenji is an Iranian-born scholar and an award winning\, internationally acclaimed performing artist\, choreographer\, instructor\, lecturer\, dance ethnologist\, Sufi master\, and archaeologist specializing in classical\, folkloric\, and sacred dances of Persia and the Silk Road. Her training spans a lifetime of intensive collaboration and research with master artists\, scholars\, and spiritual teachers worldwide. She is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective\, a worldwide collaborative devoted to teach dance technique\, interpret\, illustrate\, present\, and perform dances of the Silk Road. In 2018\, Farima became the first American-Iranian woman honored to be a TEDx dance speaker and performer. Farima is a member of the International Dance Council (CID – UNESCO)\, UNESCO\, and the National Folk Organization (NFO). Read more.. \nThe Wellness Project\nThe Wellness Project aims to raise awareness and support community by presenting relevant and emerging information in the field of holistic well-being and environmental health. Read more… \nFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/WellnessMiddleEast\nInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wellnessproject_me/ URL:http://farimadance.com/event/sema-of-nature-lebanon/ LOCATION:Beit Mery Pine Forest\, VJ64+62\, Ouyoun\, Lebanon CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema),Workshop ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/image003.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20210328T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20210328T120000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20210228T020412Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210303T223321Z UID:23364-1616929200-1616932800@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Traditional Afghan Dance DESCRIPTION:This lecture will present an overview of traditional dance in Afghanistan and influences by neighboring countries India\, Iran\, Central Asia and Russia. Katherine will be sharing her field experience and stories researching dance within Afghanistan. \nAll are welcome. Please register in advance to obtain a link to the online lecture. \nRegister \nPlease consider making a donation at http://donate.farimadance.com to support our artists below \nKatherine St. John\nKatherine St. John Katherine St. John received a Master’s degree in dance pedagogy from Brigham Young University and a Master’s in Persian from the University of Utah and completed coursework for a PhD in dance history and theory from the University of California. Katherine has performed and choreographed for theater\, dance companies\, operas and at universities for 30 plus years. She was an artist in residence teaching world dance to students throughout Utah and neighboring states for 20 years. Her Master’s thesis is about dance in Herat Afghanistan from 1970-1980 during Russian interference. Read more.. URL:http://farimadance.com/event/afghan-dance/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema),Online,Party,Performance ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/3-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20210320T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20210320T220000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20210213T202734Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220227T021339Z UID:23284-1616263200-1616277600@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Norouz Celebration DESCRIPTION:Join us for an evening celebrating Norouz\, the coming of Spring! \nNorouz is the traditional spring and new year celebration of the Persian and Central Asian people. Norouz means “New Day” and it falls on the March equinox\, the first day of spring. Families on Norouz gather together and wait for the exact time it is declared\, exchange gifts and eat a feast of traditional food. It’s a time to celebrate ancestry and family. Norouz has been celebrated by people from diverse ethnic communities and religious backgrounds for thousands of years. \nPresented by the Simorgh Dance Collective and Eastern Arts\, activities for our online gathering will include: \n\nTraditional performances of sacred\, classical\, and folkloric dances of the Silk Road\nLive traditional Persian music\nStory telling and lectures of Norouz and rituals across the Silk Road\nPoetry reading\nDance and music workshops\n\nAll are welcome! Please register in advance to obtain a link to the online presentation. \nRegister \nPlease consider making a donation at http://donate.farimadance.com to support our artists below \nSimorgh Dance Collective\nSimorgh Dance Collective The Simorgh Dance Collective is a world community of artists devoted to cross-cultural dialogue and artistic collaboration through traditional\, classical\, and sacred dance styles of the Silk Road. The Collective currently has member companies and artist affiliations in Alaska\, British Columbia\, Turkey\, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Read more..\nEastern Arts\nEastern Arts Based in Salt Lake City\, Utah\, Eastern Arts is a non-profit organization of dancers\, artists\, musicians\, and scholars who present the folkways and traditions of many lands and peoples. Eastern Arts originated in 1960 and has been active internationally presenting dance and music of lands from Asia to North Africa\, from India to the Balkans in concerts\, workshops\, publications\, audio and video productions.\nFarima Berenji\nFarima Berenji Farima Berenji is an Iranian-born scholar and an award winning\, internationally acclaimed performing artist\, choreographer\, instructor\, lecturer\, dance ethnologist\, Sufi master\, and archaeologist specializing in classical\, folkloric\, and sacred dances of Persia and the Silk Road. Her training spans a lifetime of intensive collaboration and research with master artists\, scholars\, and spiritual teachers worldwide. She is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective\, a worldwide collaborative devoted to teach dance technique\, interpret\, illustrate\, present\, and perform dances of the Silk Road. In 2018\, Farima became the first American-Iranian woman honored to be a TEDx dance speaker and performer. Farima is a member of the International Dance Council (CID – UNESCO)\, UNESCO\, and the National Folk Organization (NFO). Read more.. \nDr. Lloyd Miller\nDr. Lloyd Miller Dr. Lloyd Miller received his PhD in Persian Language and Literature from the University of Utah after spending seven years living in Iran where he had a weekly prime time television program titled “Kurosh Ali Khan va dastan”. His program featured musicians and other artists from around the world. Lloyd was urged to leave Iran during the revolution in the late 70s\, though he had never planned to leave. An expert in world music including American jazz\, Lloyd has made numerous recordings. The most popular being “Oriental Jazz” first released in 1968 and recently re-released by Vinyl Me Please selling thousands of copies worldwide. A film about Lloyd’s extraordinary life\, including 6 years in Europe as a jazzman and university student where he played with some of the most well-known musicians of the time\, is soon to be released. Titled “” the film will be screened in Finland October 25 at the World Music Expo. It was in Paris that Lloyd met Dr. Daryush Safvat who became his lifelong mentor and who taught Lloyd the importance and significance of Persian classical music. Founder of Eastern Arts\, with the blessing of Dr. Safvat\, Lloyd has taught music\, philosophy\, history\, dance and culture to thousands of students at various universities for over 40 years. Read more… \nKatherine St. John\nKatherine St. John Katherine St. John received a Master’s degree in dance pedagogy from Brigham Young University and a Master’s in Persian from the University of Utah and completed coursework for a PhD in dance history and theory from the University of California. Katherine has performed and choreographed for theater\, dance companies\, operas and at universities for 30 plus years. She was an artist in residence teaching world dance to students throughout Utah and neighboring states for 20 years. Her Master’s thesis is about dance in Herat Afghanistan from 1970-1980 during Russian interference. Read more.. \n\nNariman Assadi\nNariman Assadi Nariman Assadi was born in Hamedan\, Iran on January 1\, 1992. Raised in Tehran\, he always felt drawn to percussion instruments. At the age of thirteen\, he began studying tombak under Master Amir Mogharab Samadi. From 2008 to 2013\, Nariman performed at Vahdat Hall as a soloist and with the Persian Percussion Ensemble at Pars Academy\, the premier music academy for children. After mastering tombak\, he then began learning Daf under the great Master Bijan Kamkar. With a strong understanding of the daf and tombak\, Nariman started learning barbat (Oud) under Master Mohammad Firouzi. \nIn 2015\, Nariman immigrated to the United States. He immediately began his professional music career by performing and attending festivals. In 2017\, he started learning percussion performance and world music with Professor Daniel Kennedy at Sacramento State University. Along with being a member of various ensembles\, Nariman teaches daf\, tombak\, other percussions\, and music for children in Davis\, Sacramento\, and the Bay Area. He also offers music classes and workshops online. Read more..\nRashid Sadat\nRashid Sadat Rashid Sadat is a well-known performer\, originally from Tashkent\, Uzbekistan. His work in Central Asia included lead roles in popular films during early 2000’s\, plus regular TV appearances and as a daily radio host on Auto Radio Hamroh FM102. With over 10 years of theatre experience including acting and directing\, Rashid is also a well known folk dancer\, having performed at dance and music festivals in London\, Sweden\, Greece\, and Germany. Now living in London\, Rashid has expanded his portfolio to include work as an extra in big budget films. In 2015 alone he worked on Spectre (James Bond)\, Star Wars: The Force Awakens\, Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation\, and others. In addition to film\, Rashid is also well known in London as a host for cultural and arts events\, and starred in his own one-man show\, Dervish\, at the Lion and Unicorn Theatre in 2012. \nSeyed Salman Hosseini\nSeyed Salman Seyed Salman Hosseini possesses a bachelor degree in music ethnology and is an Iranian traditional music researcher\, composer and a master musician of tambour\, setar\, tar\, and rebab. He directs the traditional Persian music ensemble Cherikeh which has been performing sacred and traditional music for many years. Seyed has produced many albums including Javdanegni and Tabeh Ghaleh. He is the music director and composer for films such as Song of God and Gadam Yar. Seyed has composed and performed more than 40 concerts and TV programs including composing music for national broadcasts of Iran. He has performed professionally in Iran\, Germany\, Syria\, and the Iraqi Kurdistan region. Additionally\, he is a Sufi master and has his own school of music and mysticism. \nHomeyra Banejad\nHomeyra Banejad Homeyra Banejad is an Iranian daf player and vocalist. As a member of the Iranian Musician Union of Iran she has performed in Iran and the US with Sima Bina\, Hamed Nikpay\, Simin Ghanem\, and many more artists! URL:http://farimadance.com/event/norouz2021/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema),Online,Party,Performance ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/NorouzGala-3a.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20210220T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20210220T123000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20171015T233045Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210129T234510Z UID:17165-1613820600-1613824200@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Dance of the Soul (Sufi Whirling & Virtual Gathering) DESCRIPTION:Join us at our monthly Sufi Whirling and Sema Gathering\, with live/recorded music\, meditation\, whirling\, Zikr (Sufi Prayer) and Sohbet (Sufi Talk). We will create a sacred\, supportive space where we can all release whatever energy no longer serves us\, relax and open our heart\, body\, and mind. We will discover the power and mystery of ancient dances and rituals – a gateway for self-growth and spiritual transformation– through movement\, music\, love\, and stillness. Be moved by beautiful\, sacred music. \n \nThis will be an online event only with participation by Zoom conferencing. \nOverview\nOur gathering is NOT a performance. \n\nFirst join for a welcoming circle and Farima will lead us into her unique 4 element breathing meditation or 7 mode music meditation and relaxation.\nWe will progress into Sufi whirling following facilitation by Farima.\nWe will close with a Zikr (Sufi Prayers)\, ancient Iranian Shamanic rituals\, sharing\, and a gratitude circle\n\nFarima’s teachings are based on ancient Iranic rituals\, science of whirling\, and the sacred geometry of whirling. We will learn essential techniques of whirling preparation\, maintaining balance and posture\, controlling dizziness\, self-focus during turning\, breath work\, and more. \nFarima’s monthly Sema Gathering offers a unique expression of sacred culture\, inspired by nature\, ancient Iranic rituals\, and the beautiful spiritual traditions of Sufism. We will whirl and journey together to celebrate love\, unity\, and allow the light to enter our soul. \nOpen your heart! Listen! Turn\, dance\, and move in anyway that makes you feel alive! \nRegister online \nGuidelines and Tips\n\nWe kindly ask for no talking on the whirling floor and to keep the Sema area quiet at all times. Respect yourself as well as those around you.\nPlease wear comfortable clothing (white or light colored if possible) and wear socks or soft soled shoes.\nAvoid eating a large meal 1-2 hours prior\n\nFarima Berenji\nFounder and Artistic Director\, Worldwide Simorgh Dance Collective\, 2007\nFounder and Director of Dance of the Soul ® and the Awakening and Lioness Project ® (Ancient Iranic Warrior Dances and Rituals\, 2013) \nFarima Berenji is an award winning Dance Ethnologist and internationally acclaimed dance artist\, choreographer\, instructor\, and Sufi dance master. Recognized and certified as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology by UNESCO\, she travels worldwide to record\, research\, lecture\, perform\, educate\, and to inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. She is a Magi (Iranian Shaman Master) and a Sufi. \nFarima has worked as a UN scholar\, researching and led an excavations team of Iranian archeology emphasizing the preservation of ancient and mystical Iranic dances. Farima’s dance and spiritual training spans years of intensive research with master artists\, scholars\, and spiritual teachers worldwide. She comes from the Sufi Order of Yarsan of Iran and has devoted her life into researching and brining back the ancient Sufi traditions of Iran and the origin of Sema (Khorasan Sema). \nFarima teaches her own original research findings\, methods\, techniques\, and exercises to uncover the connection between the soul and dance movements based on the book she is writing ‘Seven Sema’ the connection of human soul and the 7 sacred elements of life. Her signature dance projects (dance of the soul and the lioness) combines Persian and Near Eastern sacred and mystical dance forms\, history\, poetry\, and the Sufi and healing rituals of ancient Iran Persia\, the Altai Mountains\, and Central Asia. \nAs a scholar\, Farima presents new archaeological discoveries and research upon Sufism and its connection to the ancient Zoroastrianism and Sufism\, the human body\, and its symbolic meaning in the Universe along the pathway to the soul. She will introduce you to ritual movements celebrating the grace and joy of life and to a society where and when people lived in harmony with each other and with nature. She teaches her own unique movement and techniques that are researched and inspired during her various studies in Khaneqas (Sufi Houses) and Fire temples of Khorasan\, Kurdistan\, Tehran\, and Shiraz. \nFarima is one of the few Iranian women who has been allowed to teach\, write and perform the Gwati and Vahishta Sema Rituals in Iran and around the world and has been recognized by Iran and UN as the pioneer of bringing back the original mystic Rituals of Khorasan. She is the first Iranian woman to have received the CID-UNESCO award and certification and is currently the dance ambassador of UNESCO\, the first Iranian woman artist to receive the National Folk Dance Association award\, and the first Iranian woman healer and dancer to have been chosen for TED Talk. Farima is the recipient of the prestigious UN award and has been recognized by Congressman Mike Honda\, by the Iranian Women’s Rights Committee “30 Voices\,” Music and Cultural Organization of Turkey. Farima was the first Iranian\, to have been invited and perform during a reception for US President Obama\, Governor of Alaska\, UN\, EU\, Ambassador of Canada\, and Ambassador of Spain. Read more… URL:http://farimadance.com/event/sema-gathering/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema),Workshop ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Dance-of-the-Soul-Feb2021.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20201221T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20201222T000000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20201215T084605Z LAST-MODIFIED:20201221T024556Z UID:22668-1608573600-1608595200@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Yalda: A Festival of Light DESCRIPTION:Join us for an evening celebrating Yalda (winter solstice)\, the longest night of the year and the birth of Mithra. \nShab-e Yalda (Yalda Night) is the Persian Winter Solstice Celebration on the eve of the Winter Solstice. The Persians believed that this night is the night of the birth of Ahura Mazda and Mithra\, Persian God of Light and Truth. He was born on the morning of the longest night of the year. \nPresented by Eastern Arts and the Simorgh Dance Collective\, this first annual online gathering will be accompanied by music\, dance\, poetry reading\, Persian mythology and stories\, and more! Portions are recorded and live. \nAll are welcome. Please register in advance to obtain a link to the online presentation. \nRegister \nPlease consider making a donation at http://donate.farimadance.com to support our artists below \nSimorgh Dance Collective\nSimorgh Dance Collective The Simorgh Dance Collective is a world community of artists devoted to cross-cultural dialogue and artistic collaboration through traditional\, classical\, and sacred dance styles of the Silk Road. The Collective currently has member companies and artist affiliations in Alaska\, British Columbia\, Turkey\, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Read more..\nEastern Arts\nEastern Arts Based in Salt Lake City\, Utah\, Eastern Arts is a non-profit organization of dancers\, artists\, musicians\, and scholars who present the folkways and traditions of many lands and peoples. Eastern Arts originated in 1960 and has been active internationally presenting dance and music of lands from Asia to North Africa\, from India to the Balkans in concerts\, workshops\, publications\, audio and video productions.\nFarima Berenji\nFarima Berenji Farima Berenji is an Iranian-born scholar and an award winning\, internationally acclaimed performing artist\, choreographer\, instructor\, lecturer\, dance ethnologist\, Sufi master\, and archaeologist specializing in classical\, folkloric\, and sacred dances of Persia and the Silk Road. Her training spans a lifetime of intensive collaboration and research with master artists\, scholars\, and spiritual teachers worldwide. She is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective\, a worldwide collaborative devoted to teach dance technique\, interpret\, illustrate\, present\, and perform dances of the Silk Road. In 2018\, Farima became the first American-Iranian woman honored to be a TEDx dance speaker and performer. Farima is a member of the International Dance Council (CID – UNESCO)\, UNESCO\, and the National Folk Organization (NFO). Read more.. \nDr. Lloyd Miller\nDr. Lloyd Miller Dr. Lloyd Miller received his PhD in Persian Language and Literature from the University of Utah after spending seven years living in Iran where he had a weekly prime time television program titled “Kurosh Ali Khan va dastan”. His program featured musicians and other artists from around the world. Lloyd was urged to leave Iran during the revolution in the late 70s\, though he had never planned to leave. An expert in world music including American jazz\, Lloyd has made numerous recordings. The most popular being “Oriental Jazz” first released in 1968 and recently re-released by Vinyl Me Please selling thousands of copies worldwide. A film about Lloyd’s extraordinary life\, including 6 years in Europe as a jazzman and university student where he played with some of the most well-known musicians of the time\, is soon to be released. Titled “” the film will be screened in Finland October 25 at the World Music Expo. It was in Paris that Lloyd met Dr. Daryush Safvat who became his lifelong mentor and who taught Lloyd the importance and significance of Persian classical music. Founder of Eastern Arts\, with the blessing of Dr. Safvat\, Lloyd has taught music\, philosophy\, history\, dance and culture to thousands of students at various universities for over 40 years. Read more… \nKatherine St. John\nKatherine St. John Katherine St. John received a Master’s degree in dance pedagogy from Brigham Young University and a Master’s in Persian from the University of Utah and completed coursework for a PhD in dance history and theory from the University of California. Katherine has performed and choreographed for theater\, dance companies\, operas and at universities for 30 plus years. She was an artist in residence teaching world dance to students throughout Utah and neighboring states for 20 years. Her Master’s thesis is about dance in Herat Afghanistan from 1970-1980 during Russian interference. Read more.. URL:http://farimadance.com/event/yalda-festival-of-light/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema),Online,Party,Performance ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Yalda-SJ-2020-2.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20201216T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20201216T113000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20201210T180805Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220227T021423Z UID:22667-1608112800-1608118200@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Whirling and Sema Celebrating Sheb-i Arus DESCRIPTION:Join us to celebrate our fellowship in love and spirit with whirling dance (Sema)\, meditation\, music\, prayers\, and poetry. Sheb-i Arus commemorates the death and thereby union between the Persian mystical poet Rumi and the universe. \nOur ceremony will be shared multi-nationally online with Master Seyed Salman\, Master Farima Berenji\, and with live music by Dr. Lloyd Miller and other musicians. \nJoin us for sacred and mystical Sufi poetry (Farsi and English)\, meditation\, whirling with live and recorded music\, then closure with prayer and zikr. \nWe will whirl and journey together to celebrate love\, unity\, and allow the light to enter our soul. Open your heart! Listen! Turn\, dance\, and move in anyway that makes you feel alive! \n$5-10 sliding scale donation. Your donation is greatly appreciated. \nOur gathering is not a performance. Come and join our sacred circle. You are welcome to set and feel the healing energy and prepare a poem to share as we journey together to be closer to the light. \n \nGuidelines and Tips\n\nWe kindly ask for no interruptions during the ceremony. We will mute all participants during the ceremony then unmute for open participation. \nIf you are whirling from home prepare to wear comfortable clothing\, whirling skirt (optional)\, socks or soft-soled shoes. Avoid eating a large meal 2 hours prior.\n\nFarima Berenji\nFarima Berenji Farima Berenji is an Iranian-born scholar and an award winning\, internationally acclaimed performing artist\, choreographer\, instructor\, lecturer\, dance ethnologist\, Sufi master\, and archaeologist specializing in classical\, folkloric\, and sacred dances of Persia and the Silk Road. Her training spans a lifetime of intensive collaboration and research with master artists\, scholars\, and spiritual teachers worldwide. She is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective\, a worldwide collaborative devoted to teach dance technique\, interpret\, illustrate\, present\, and perform dances of the Silk Road. In 2018\, Farima became the first American-Iranian woman honored to be a TEDx dance speaker and performer. Farima is a member of the International Dance Council (CID – UNESCO)\, UNESCO\, and the National Folk Organization (NFO). Read more.. \nSeyed Salman Hosseini\nSeyed Salman Seyed Salman Hosseini possesses a bachelor degree in music ethnology and is an Iranian traditional music researcher\, composer and a master musician of tambour\, setar\, tar\, and rebab. He directs the traditional Persian music ensemble Cherikeh which has been performing sacred and traditional music for many years. Seyed has produced many albums including Javdanegni and Tabeh Ghaleh. He is the music director and composer for films such as Song of God and Gadam Yar. Seyed has composed and performed more than 40 concerts and TV programs including composing music for national broadcasts of Iran. He has performed professionally in Iran\, Germany\, Syria\, and the Iraqi Kurdistan region. Additionally\, he is a Sufi master and has his own school of music and mysticism. \nDr. Lloyd Miller\nDr. Lloyd Miller Dr. Lloyd Miller received his PhD in Persian Language and Literature from the University of Utah after spending seven years living in Iran where he had a weekly prime time television program titled “Kurosh Ali Khan va dastan”. His program featured musicians and other artists from around the world. Lloyd was urged to leave Iran during the revolution in the late 70s\, though he had never planned to leave. An expert in world music including American jazz\, Lloyd has made numerous recordings. The most popular being “Oriental Jazz” first released in 1968 and recently re-released by Vinyl Me Please selling thousands of copies worldwide. A film about Lloyd’s extraordinary life\, including 6 years in Europe as a jazzman and university student where he played with some of the most well-known musicians of the time\, is soon to be released. Titled “” the film will be screened in Finland October 25 at the World Music Expo. It was in Paris that Lloyd met Dr. Daryush Safvat who became his lifelong mentor and who taught Lloyd the importance and significance of Persian classical music. Founder of Eastern Arts\, with the blessing of Dr. Safvat\, Lloyd has taught music\, philosophy\, history\, dance and culture to thousands of students at various universities for over 40 years. Read more… URL:http://farimadance.com/event/sheb-i-arus-2020/ LOCATION:Online CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema),Online ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/ShebiArus2020A-2.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20200806T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20200806T130000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20200805T222858Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200805T222858Z UID:21701-1596715200-1596718800@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Prayers and Whirling for Beruit DESCRIPTION:Join us for a prayer session and meditative whirling in memory of the casualties and widespread devastation caused by an unbelievable explosion Tuesday at the Port of Beruit. Together we wish the people of Beruit healing in the face of this tremendous tragedy\, to all those who have been wounded or have had homes\, offices\, and property destroyed. \nIf you wish to help the injured or affected please make a donation to \nLebanese Red Cross\nhttp://www.redcross.org.lb/SubPage.aspx?pageid=1370&PID=158 \nLebanese Crisis NGO\nhttps://lebanoncrisis.carrd.co/#donate URL:http://farimadance.com/event/prayers-and-whirling-for-beruit/ LOCATION:San Jose\, CA\, San Jose\, CA\, United States CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema) ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/117372176_4578169988860595_5612109521124195253_o.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20200307T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20200307T150000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20200204T033113Z LAST-MODIFIED:20210129T225400Z UID:20577-1583586000-1583593200@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Dance of the Soul: Sufi Whirling Gathering DESCRIPTION:Join Farima for a Sufi Whirling Workshop and Sema Gathering\, with sacred music\, meditation\, and whirling. We will create a sacred\, supportive space where we can all release whatever energy no longer serves us\, relax and open our heart\, body\, and mind. We will discover the power and mystery of ancient dances and rituals – a gateway for self-growth and spiritual transformation– through movement\, music\, love\, and stillness. Be moved by beautiful\, sacred music. \nOverview\nOur gathering is NOT a performance. More details about sacred dance and Sema training may be found here. \n\nFirst join for a welcoming circle and Farima will lead us into her unique 4 element breathing meditation or 7 mode music meditation and relaxation.\nWe will progress into various Sufi whirling workshop techniques\, styles\, and rules (Turkish Sema\, Khorasan Sema\, Ancient Iranic Sema\, Baktashi Sema\, Uyghur Sema).\nNext we will progress into a prayer and open floor whirling with both live and recorded world sacred music\, poetry\, and drumming.\nWe will close with a Zikr (Sufi Prayers)\, ancient Iranian Shamanic rituals\, sharing\, a gratitude circle\, and Sohbet (Sufi Talk) by Dervish and Semazen\, Farima Berenji.\n\nFarima’s teachings are based on ancient Iranic rituals\, science of whirling\, and the sacred geometry of whirling. We will learn essential techniques of whirling preparation\, maintaining balance and posture\, controlling dizziness\, self-focus during turning\, breath work\, and more. \nFarima’s monthly Sema Gathering offers a unique expression of sacred culture\, inspired by nature\, ancient Iranic rituals\, and the beautiful spiritual traditions of Sufism. We will whirl and journey together to celebrate love\, unity\, and allow the light to enter our soul. \nOpen your heart! Listen! Turn\, dance\, and move in anyway that makes you feel alive! \nRegister Online \nGuidelines and Tips\n\nPlease have a yoga mat or pillow to sit on.\nWe kindly ask for no talking on the whirling floor and to keep the Sema area quiet at all times. Respect yourself as well as those around you.\nPlease wear comfortable clothing (white or light colored if possible) and wear socks or soft soled shoes.\nAvoid eating a large meal 1-2 hours prior\n\nFarima Berenji\nFounder and Artistic Director\, Worldwide Simorgh Dance Collective\, 2007\nFounder and Director of Dance of the Soul ® and the Awakening and Lioness Project ® (Ancient Iranic Warrior Dances and Rituals\, 2013) \nFarima Berenji is an award winning Dance Ethnologist and internationally acclaimed dance artist\, choreographer\, instructor\, and Sufi dance master. Recognized and certified as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology by UNESCO\, she travels worldwide to record\, research\, lecture\, perform\, educate\, and to inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. She is a Magi (Iranian Shaman Master) and a Sufi. \nFarima has worked as a UN scholar\, researching and led an excavations team of Iranian archeology emphasizing the preservation of ancient and mystical Iranic dances. Farima’s dance and spiritual training spans years of intensive research with master artists\, scholars\, and spiritual teachers worldwide. She comes from the Sufi Order of Yarsan of Iran and has devoted her life into researching and brining back the ancient Sufi traditions of Iran and the origin of Sema (Khorasan Sema). \nFarima teaches her own original research findings\, methods\, techniques\, and exercises to uncover the connection between the soul and dance movements based on the book she is writing ‘Seven Sema’ the connection of human soul and the 7 sacred elements of life. Her signature dance projects (dance of the soul and the lioness) combines Persian and Near Eastern sacred and mystical dance forms\, history\, poetry\, and the Sufi and healing rituals of ancient Iran Persia\, the Altai Mountains\, and Central Asia. \nAs a scholar\, Farima presents new archaeological discoveries and research upon Sufism and its connection to the ancient Zoroastrianism and Sufism\, the human body\, and its symbolic meaning in the Universe along the pathway to the soul. She will introduce you to ritual movements celebrating the grace and joy of life and to a society where and when people lived in harmony with each other and with nature. She teaches her own unique movement and techniques that are researched and inspired during her various studies in Khaneqas (Sufi Houses) and Fire temples of Khorasan\, Kurdistan\, Tehran\, and Shiraz. \nFarima is one of the few Iranian women who has been allowed to teach\, write and perform the Gwati and Vahishta Sema Rituals in Iran and around the world and has been recognized by Iran and UN as the pioneer of bringing back the original mystic Rituals of Khorasan. She is the first Iranian woman to have received the CID-UNESCO award and certification and is currently the dance ambassador of UNESCO\, the first Iranian woman artist to receive the National Folk Dance Association award\, and the first Iranian woman healer and dancer to have been chosen for TED Talk. Farima is the recipient of the prestigious UN award and has been recognized by Congressman Mike Honda\, by the Iranian Women’s Rights Committee “30 Voices\,” Music and Cultural Organization of Turkey. Farima was the first Iranian\, to have been invited and perform during a reception for US President Obama\, Governor of Alaska\, UN\, EU\, Ambassador of Canada\, and Ambassador of Spain. Read more… URL:http://farimadance.com/event/dance-of-the-soul-sacramento/ LOCATION:Sol Collective\, 2574 21st St.\, Sacramento\, CA\, 95818\, United States CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema) ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Dance-of-the-Soul-Feb2021.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20191223T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20191223T143000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20191207T215146Z LAST-MODIFIED:20191207T215343Z UID:20159-1577098800-1577111400@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Sacred Dance Gathering and Workshop DESCRIPTION:Discover the power and mystery of whirling as a gateway for self-growth and spiritual enlightenment through movement\, music\, and meditation. Inspired by nature\, ancient Iranic rituals\, the science of whirling\, and the beautiful spiritual traditions of Sufism\, join Farima to learn the essentials of whirling meditation including preparation\, balance and posture\, controlling dizziness\, self-focus\, breathwork\, and more. \nWhirling in the practice of devotion\, healing\, and meditation originated thousands of years ago with the ancient Persians using it as way of connecting the body and soul. Today\, Sufis use it as a powerful meditation ritual with music\, poetry\, and movement. Based on this centuries-old Sufi ritual\, whirling can unite mind\, heart\, and body. \nBefore Coming\n\nPlease wear comfortable clothing and plan to wear socks or soft soled shoes.\nBring water.\nAvoid eating a large meal 1-2 hours prior.\n\nNo experience necessary to begin participating. With help anyone can learn and master whirling techniques while respecting one’s own limitations. URL:http://farimadance.com/event/sacred-dance-manchester/ LOCATION:St. Mary’s School\, Alexandra Centre\, Adscombe St.\, Manchester\, England\, M16 7AQ\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema),Workshop ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/IMG_6237.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20191213T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20191213T203000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20181122T231914Z LAST-MODIFIED:20191210T024742Z UID:18016-1576263600-1576269000@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Dance of the Soul Honoring Rumi DESCRIPTION:Sema\, Semah\, Sacred Dance\, Music\, and Poetry Honoring Sheb-i Arus\nJoin us this night to celebrate our fellowship in love and spirit with whirling dance (Sema and Semah)\, meditation\, music\, and poetry. Sheb-i Arus commemorates the death and thereby union between the Persian mystical poet Rumi and the universe. \nWe will open with sacred and mystical Sufi poetry (Farsi and English)\, meditation with sacred sounds\, candle gazing\, Hu meditation\, healing circles with ancient Zoroastrian rituals\, journey into whirling with live and recorded music\, then close our gathering with prayer. sacred circles and zikr. \nFarima’s monthly Sema Gathering offers a unique expression of sacred culture\, inspired by nature\, ancient Iranic rituals\, and the beautiful spiritual traditions of Sufism. We will whirl and journey together to celebrate love\, unity\, and allow the light to enter our soul. \nOpen your heart! Listen! Turn\, dance\, and move in anyway that makes you feel alive! \nOur gathering welcomes musicians and other spiritual or healing teachers to come and share their art. \n$15-20 sliding scale donation. Your donation is greatly appreciated to help cover cost of rent. \nLight snacks and drinks will be available. \nMusicians — Feel free to bring your instruments and join our music circle. Let your heart guide your music during our open floor Sema. \nSemazens — Open your heart and whirl! \nLovers\, Seekers\, and Watchers — Come and join our sacred circle. You are welcome to set and feel the healing energy\, bring a poem to share\, join our Zikr\, pray with us\, or just laugh or cry as we journey together to be closer to the light. \nGuidelines and Tips\n\nWe kindly ask for no talking on the whirling floor and to keep the Sema area quiet at all times. Respect yourself as well as those around you.\nFor this gathering please wear comfortable clothing\, whirling skirt (optional)\, socks or soft-soled shoes. Avoid eating a large meal 2 hours prior.\n\nFarima Berenji\nFarima is an award winning\, internationally acclaimed performing artist\, instructor\, dance ethnologist\, and archeologist. Recognized as one of few world experts and scholars of Persian dance history\, Farima infuses spirituality into her dance and teachings to impassion\, empower\, and inspire. A Dervish and travels worldwide to research\, perform\, teach\, and inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance. Farima is founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective\, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO)\, and a 2018 TEDx lecturer. \nAs a scholar\, Farima presents new archeological discoveries and research upon Sufism and its connection to the ancient Zoroastrianism\, the human body\, and its symbolic meaning in the Universe along the pathway to the soul. She will introduce you to ritual movements celebrating the grace and joy of life and to a society where and when people lived in harmony with each other and with nature. She teaches her own unique movement and techniques that are researched and inspired during her various studies in Khaneqas (Sufi Houses) and Fire temples of Khorasan\, Kurdistan\, Tehran\, Azerbaijan\, Altai Mountains\, Turkey\, and Shiraz. URL:http://farimadance.com/event/dance-of-the-soul-honoring-rumi/ LOCATION:Center for Creative Living\, 1460 Koll Circle\, Suite C\, San Jose\, CA\, 95112\, United States CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema) ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/DanceOfTheSoul-ShebiArus-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20191105 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20191110 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20191102T183046Z LAST-MODIFIED:20191102T183046Z UID:19977-1572912000-1573343999@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Sufi Week at Shakti Wellness Center DESCRIPTION:Five days of whirling\, dancing\, meditation\, singing and breathing with Farima Berenji URL:http://farimadance.com/event/sufi-week/ LOCATION:Shakti Wellness Center\, 2nd floor\, Ghazaliyeh street\, Haddad Building\, Sioufi sector\, Achrafieh\, Lebanon CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema),Workshop ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/73388579_3521721057838832_8513506580975583232_n.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Shakti Wellness Center":MAILTO:info@shakti.life END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Moscow:20191025T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Moscow:20191027T170000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20190816T013538Z LAST-MODIFIED:20190816T014723Z UID:19515-1572012000-1572195600@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Love is Calling... A Sema Gathering DESCRIPTION:Sufi Brothers and Sisters\, you are invited to participate in a Sema Gathering taking place at Mutlu Baba Darghah (Sufi House) in Yalova\, Turkey from October 25-27. Please note that this is an invitation only and that all must register in advance. If you wish to invite anyone please contact us and register their names. \nThe Sema will be hosted by Farima Berenji\, Hatice Sara\, Ozlem Cagla Yorganci\, Sevim Yilmaz and Evan Janosh. We will start Friday and continue until Sunday with Music and Whirling. Please note this gathering is NOT a retreat or workshop… This is a Sema Gathering. We will NOT be teaching any lessons at this gathering. \nWe will create a sacred\, supportive space where we can all release whatever energy no longer serves us\, relax and open our heart\, body\, and mind. We will discover the power and mystery of ancient dances and rituals – a gateway for self-growth and spiritual transformation–through prayers\, whirling\, music\, and love. Be moved by beautiful Sufi and Sacred music\, songs\, chanting\, poetry\, rituals\, and dance in prayers! \nDuring our Sema Gathering\, Sufi Dance Master and Ethnologist\, Farima Berenji and other guest Sufi Masters will lead Zikr\, Khorasan Sema\, Gwati Rituals\, Iranian Sema\, and Sohbet. \n\nMusicians — Feel free to bring your instruments and join our music circle. Let your heart guide your music during our open floor Sema\nSemazens — Open your heart and whirl!\nLovers\, Seekers\, and Watchers — Come and join our sacred circle. You are welcome to set and feel the healing energy\, bring a poem to share\, join our Zikr\, pray with us\, laugh or cry… as we journey together to be closer to the light.\n\nOpen your heart! Listen! Turn\, dance\, and move in anyway that makes you feel alive! \nDirections\nMehmet Rasim Mutlu Kültür Merkezi\nMutlu Sk. 12\, Gökçedere\, Termal Yalova\, Turkey \nFrom Istanbul please take the ferry from Yenikapı to Yalova. When you arrive to Yalova\, next to the ferry station there are minibuses. Please take the minibus to Gökçedere – Termal. Most drivers know Mutlu Baba Dergha. Once you are dropped off\, there is a short walk up the road and you will see Mehmet Rasim Mutlu Cultural Center. \nYou can also purchase your ferry tickets in advance. \nLodging Options\nParticipants can stay and/or sleep in the Sufi House upstairs or down in the shared dormitories free of charge.\nIf you do not wish to stay at the Sufi House there are accommodations near the center\, such as hostels and hotels. Please note that we are not responsible for your hostel or hotel reservations. You can reserve or book in advance or when you arrive. There are also free camping spaces at the garden area. Please bring your own tents and bedding for camping. \nMeals\nLight meals\, water and tea will be provided. \nRegistration\nThere is no fee for this sema. We are organizing this sema from the heart but we kindly ask participants to help us by making a donation or to volunteer in helping us with food\, cleaning\, organizations and other expenses. \nRemember this is a private event and you need to make sure you contact us and register in advance. A Facebook notification will not be counted as registration \nPlease send us an email with your full name to confirm with us. Thank you. 😊 \nGuidelines and Rules\n\nWe kindly ask for no talking on the whirling floor and to keep the Sema area quiet at all times. Respect yourself as well as those around you.\nFor this gathering please wear proper and respectful clothing\, whirling skirt (optional)\, socks or soft-soled shoes.\nAbsolutely no drugs or alcohol is allowed for this event. Using any illegal substance will be severely enforced. Organizers have the right to block entry to any participants who do not respect these rules.\nPlease do not smoke inside and around the Sufi House. There will be some designated areas for smoking.\nPlease keep the Sufi House clean. Clean after yourself and help others to keep the area clean.\n\nFor more information…\nTurkish: Hatice Sara\nEnglish: Farima Berenji 1-408-386-5005 URL:http://farimadance.com/event/love-is-calling-a-sema-gathering/ LOCATION:Mehmet Rasim Mutlu Kültür Merkezi\, Mutlu Sk. 12\, Gökçedere\, Termal\, Yalova\, Turkey CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema) ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/DSC_0200.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20191006T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20191006T210000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20190924T182313Z LAST-MODIFIED:20191004T161518Z UID:19777-1570390200-1570395600@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Dance of the Soul (Sema Gathering and Workshop) DESCRIPTION:Join Farima for a Sufi Whirling Workshop and Sema Gathering\, with live/recorded music\, meditation\, whirling\, Zikr (Sufi Prayer) and Sohbet (Sufi Talk). We will create a sacred\, supportive space where we can all release whatever energy no longer serves us\, relax and open our heart\, body\, and mind. We will discover the power and mystery of ancient dances and rituals – a gateway for self-growth and spiritual transformation– through movement\, music\, love\, and stillness. Be moved by beautiful\, sacred music. \nRegister Online \nOverview\nOur gathering is NOT a performance. \n\nFirst join for a welcoming circle and Farima will lead us into her unique 4 element breathing meditation or 7 mode music meditation and relaxation.\nWe will progress into various Sufi whirling workshop techniques\, styles\, and rules (Turkish Sema\, Khorasan Sema\, Ancient Iranic Sema\, Baktashi Sema\, Uyghur Sema).\nNext we will progress into a prayer and open floor whirling with both live and recorded world sacred music\, poetry\, and drumming.\nWe will close with a Zikr (Sufi Prayers)\, ancient Iranian Shamanic rituals\, sharing\, a gratitude circle\, and Sohbet (Sufi Talk) by Dervish and Semazen\, Farima Berenji.\n\nFarima’s teachings are based on ancient Iranic rituals\, science of whirling\, and the sacred geometry of whirling. We will learn essential techniques of whirling preparation\, maintaining balance and posture\, controlling dizziness\, self-focus during turning\, breath work\, and more. \nFarima’s monthly Sema Gathering offers a unique expression of sacred culture\, inspired by nature\, ancient Iranic rituals\, and the beautiful spiritual traditions of Sufism. We will whirl and journey together to celebrate love\, unity\, and allow the light to enter our soul. \nOpen your heart! Listen! Turn\, dance\, and move in anyway that makes you feel alive! \nGuidelines and Tips\n\nPlease bring a yoga mat or pillow to sit on.\nWe kindly ask for no talking on the whirling floor and to keep the Sema area quiet at all times. Respect yourself as well as those around you.\nPlease wear comfortable clothing (white or light colored if possible) and wear socks or soft soled shoes.\nAvoid eating a large meal 1-2 hours prior\n\nFarima Berenji\nFounder and Artistic Director\, Worldwide Simorgh Dance Collective\, 2007\nFounder and Director of Dance of the Soul ® and the Awakening and Lioness Project ® (Ancient Iranic Warrior Dances and Rituals\, 2013) \nFarima Berenji is an award winning Dance Ethnologist and internationally acclaimed dance artist\, choreographer\, instructor\, and Sufi dance master. Recognized and certified as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology by UNESCO\, she travels worldwide to record\, research\, lecture\, perform\, educate\, and to inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. She is a Magi (Iranian Shaman Master) and a Sufi. \nFarima has worked as a UN scholar\, researching and led an excavations team of Iranian archeology emphasizing the preservation of ancient and mystical Iranic dances. Farima’s dance and spiritual training spans years of intensive research with master artists\, scholars\, and spiritual teachers worldwide. She comes from the Sufi Order of Yarsan of Iran and has devoted her life into researching and brining back the ancient Sufi traditions of Iran and the origin of Sema (Khorasan Sema). \nFarima teaches her own original research findings\, methods\, techniques\, and exercises to uncover the connection between the soul and dance movements based on the book she is writing ‘Seven Sema’ the connection of human soul and the 7 sacred elements of life. Her signature dance projects (dance of the soul and the lioness) combines Persian and Near Eastern sacred and mystical dance forms\, history\, poetry\, and the Sufi and healing rituals of ancient Iran Persia\, the Altai Mountains\, and Central Asia. \nAs a scholar\, Farima presents new archaeological discoveries and research upon Sufism and its connection to the ancient Zoroastrianism and Sufism\, the human body\, and its symbolic meaning in the Universe along the pathway to the soul. She will introduce you to ritual movements celebrating the grace and joy of life and to a society where and when people lived in harmony with each other and with nature. She teaches her own unique movement and techniques that are researched and inspired during her various studies in Khaneqas (Sufi Houses) and Fire temples of Khorasan\, Kurdistan\, Tehran\, and Shiraz. \nFarima is one of the few Iranian women who has been allowed to teach\, write and perform the Gwati and Vahishta Sema Rituals in Iran and around the world and has been recognized by Iran and UN as the pioneer of bringing back the original mystic Rituals of Khorasan. She is the first Iranian woman to have received the CID-UNESCO award and certification and is currently the dance ambassador of UNESCO\, the first Iranian woman artist to receive the National Folk Dance Association award\, and the first Iranian woman healer and dancer to have been chosen for TED Talk. Farima is the recipient of the prestigious UN award and has been recognized by Congressman Mike Honda\, by the Iranian Women’s Rights Committee “30 Voices\,” Music and Cultural Organization of Turkey. Farima was the first Iranian\, to have been invited and perform during a reception for US President Obama\, Governor of Alaska\, UN\, EU\, Ambassador of Canada\, and Ambassador of Spain. Read more… URL:http://farimadance.com/event/sema-gathering-sacramento/ LOCATION:Yoga Studio\, Anatolia Clubhouse\, 11828 Chrysanthy Blvd\, Rancho Cordova\, CA\, 95742\, United States CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema),Workshop ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/banner-fb-4-3.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Shery Allahyari":MAILTO:sherysjewelry@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190929T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190929T180000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20190817T080025Z LAST-MODIFIED:20190927T171446Z UID:19539-1569772800-1569780000@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Sacred Circle Gathering (Cancelled) DESCRIPTION:This event has been cancelled and will be rescheduled for another date \nLed by Farima Berenji and Xiaojie Zheng\, this evening session will include an introduction to: \n\nAncient Persian healing movements and rituals\nBreath work and visualization\nBasic whirling practices\n\nFarima Berenji\nFarima Berenji is an award-winning\, internationally acclaimed performing artist\, instructor\, dance ethnologist\, choreographer\, and archeologist. Recognized as one of few world experts and scholars of Persian dance history\, Farima infuses spirituality into her dance and teachings to impassion\, empower\, and inspire. Farima travels worldwide to research\, perform\, teach\, and inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance. Farima is founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective\, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO)\, and a TEDx lecturer. Read more… URL:http://farimadance.com/event/sacred-circle-gathering/ LOCATION:New Era Art Studio\, 1250 Missouri St #311\, San Francisco\, CA\, 94107\, United States CATEGORIES:Lecture,Meditation Gathering (Sema),Workshop ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/18.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190929T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190929T180000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20190817T080025Z LAST-MODIFIED:20190817T080025Z UID:22626-1569772800-1569780000@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Sacred Circle Gathering (Cancelled) DESCRIPTION:This event has been cancelled and will be rescheduled for another date \nLed by Farima Berenji and Xiaojie Zheng\, this evening session will include an introduction to: \n\nAncient Persian healing movements and rituals\nBreath work and visualization\nBasic whirling practices\n\nFarima Berenji\nFarima Berenji is an award-winning\, internationally acclaimed performing artist\, instructor\, dance ethnologist\, choreographer\, and archeologist. Recognized as one of few world experts and scholars of Persian dance history\, Farima infuses spirituality into her dance and teachings to impassion\, empower\, and inspire. Farima travels worldwide to research\, perform\, teach\, and inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance. Farima is founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective\, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO)\, and a TEDx lecturer. Read more… URL:http://farimadance.com/event/sacred-circle-gathering-2/ LOCATION:New Era Art Studio\, 1250 Missouri St #311\, San Francisco\, CA\, 94107\, United States CATEGORIES:Lecture,Meditation Gathering (Sema),Workshop ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/18.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190915T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190915T210000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20190830T060659Z LAST-MODIFIED:20200204T033828Z UID:19608-1568575800-1568581200@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Dance of the Soul (Sema Gathering and Workshop) DESCRIPTION:Join Farima for a Sufi Whirling Workshop and Sema Gathering\, with live/recorded music\, meditation\, whirling\, Zikr (Sufi Prayer) and Sohbet (Sufi Talk). We will create a sacred\, supportive space where we can all release whatever energy no longer serves us\, relax and open our heart\, body\, and mind. We will discover the power and mystery of ancient dances and rituals – a gateway for self-growth and spiritual transformation– through movement\, music\, love\, and stillness. Be moved by beautiful\, sacred music. \nRegister Online \nOverview\nOur gathering is NOT a performance. More details about sacred dance and Sema training may be found here. \n\nFirst join for a welcoming circle and Farima will lead us into her unique 4 element breathing meditation or 7 mode music meditation and relaxation.\nWe will progress into various Sufi whirling workshop techniques\, styles\, and rules (Turkish Sema\, Khorasan Sema\, Ancient Iranic Sema\, Baktashi Sema\, Uyghur Sema).\nNext we will progress into a prayer and open floor whirling with both live and recorded world sacred music\, poetry\, and drumming.\nWe will close with a Zikr (Sufi Prayers)\, ancient Iranian Shamanic rituals\, sharing\, a gratitude circle\, and Sohbet (Sufi Talk) by Dervish and Semazen\, Farima Berenji.\n\nFarima’s teachings are based on ancient Iranic rituals\, science of whirling\, and the sacred geometry of whirling. We will learn essential techniques of whirling preparation\, maintaining balance and posture\, controlling dizziness\, self-focus during turning\, breath work\, and more. \nFarima’s monthly Sema Gathering offers a unique expression of sacred culture\, inspired by nature\, ancient Iranic rituals\, and the beautiful spiritual traditions of Sufism. We will whirl and journey together to celebrate love\, unity\, and allow the light to enter our soul. \nOpen your heart! Listen! Turn\, dance\, and move in anyway that makes you feel alive! \n \nGuidelines and Tips\n\nPlease bring a yoga mat or pillow to sit on.\nWe kindly ask for no talking on the whirling floor and to keep the Sema area quiet at all times. Respect yourself as well as those around you.\nPlease wear comfortable clothing (white or light colored if possible) and wear socks or soft soled shoes.\nAvoid eating a large meal 1-2 hours prior\n\nFarima Berenji\nFounder and Artistic Director\, Worldwide Simorgh Dance Collective\, 2007\nFounder and Director of Dance of the Soul ® and the Awakening and Lioness Project ® (Ancient Iranic Warrior Dances and Rituals\, 2013) \nFarima Berenji is an award winning Dance Ethnologist and internationally acclaimed dance artist\, choreographer\, instructor\, and Sufi dance master. Recognized and certified as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology by UNESCO\, she travels worldwide to record\, research\, lecture\, perform\, educate\, and to inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. She is a Magi (Iranian Shaman Master) and a Sufi. \nFarima has worked as a UN scholar\, researching and led an excavations team of Iranian archeology emphasizing the preservation of ancient and mystical Iranic dances. Farima’s dance and spiritual training spans years of intensive research with master artists\, scholars\, and spiritual teachers worldwide. She comes from the Sufi Order of Yarsan of Iran and has devoted her life into researching and brining back the ancient Sufi traditions of Iran and the origin of Sema (Khorasan Sema). \nFarima teaches her own original research findings\, methods\, techniques\, and exercises to uncover the connection between the soul and dance movements based on the book she is writing ‘Seven Sema’ the connection of human soul and the 7 sacred elements of life. Her signature dance projects (dance of the soul and the lioness) combines Persian and Near Eastern sacred and mystical dance forms\, history\, poetry\, and the Sufi and healing rituals of ancient Iran Persia\, the Altai Mountains\, and Central Asia. \nAs a scholar\, Farima presents new archaeological discoveries and research upon Sufism and its connection to the ancient Zoroastrianism and Sufism\, the human body\, and its symbolic meaning in the Universe along the pathway to the soul. She will introduce you to ritual movements celebrating the grace and joy of life and to a society where and when people lived in harmony with each other and with nature. She teaches her own unique movement and techniques that are researched and inspired during her various studies in Khaneqas (Sufi Houses) and Fire temples of Khorasan\, Kurdistan\, Tehran\, and Shiraz. \nFarima is one of the few Iranian women who has been allowed to teach\, write and perform the Gwati and Vahishta Sema Rituals in Iran and around the world and has been recognized by Iran and UN as the pioneer of bringing back the original mystic Rituals of Khorasan. She is the first Iranian woman to have received the CID-UNESCO award and certification and is currently the dance ambassador of UNESCO\, the first Iranian woman artist to receive the National Folk Dance Association award\, and the first Iranian woman healer and dancer to have been chosen for TED Talk. Farima is the recipient of the prestigious UN award and has been recognized by Congressman Mike Honda\, by the Iranian Women’s Rights Committee “30 Voices\,” Music and Cultural Organization of Turkey. Farima was the first Iranian\, to have been invited and perform during a reception for US President Obama\, Governor of Alaska\, UN\, EU\, Ambassador of Canada\, and Ambassador of Spain. Read more… URL:http://farimadance.com/event/sema-gathering-anatolia/ LOCATION:Yoga Studio\, Anatolia Clubhouse\, 11828 Chrysanthy Blvd\, Rancho Cordova\, CA\, 95742\, United States CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema),Workshop ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/DanceOfTheSoul-Anatolia.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Shery Allahyari":MAILTO:sherysjewelry@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190329T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190329T220000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20190211T172452Z LAST-MODIFIED:20190311T230318Z UID:18375-1553886000-1553896800@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Nowruz Dance Performances and Sema Gathering DESCRIPTION:Plan to join Farima\, the Simorgh Dance Collective\, and friends and celebrate the Persian New Year and Spring Equinox with dance performances followed by a Sema Gathering (Sufi Whirling) led by Farima. \nLearn personal and spiritual Sema (Sufi Whirling) as well as other turning practices\, while listening to sacred poetry and music. Feel free to bring a poem to share or play us your favorite musical instrument. Anyone may participate in the Sema Gathering\, join the whirling\, move in a circle\, listen\, or be present. \nIf you plan to whirl bring soft soled shoes or socks. It is suggested but optional to wear white or light clothing for Sema. \nDoors open: 7PM\nDance performances: 7:30PM\nSema Gathering (Sufi Whirling) and Zikr: 8:30-10PM \nSuggested donation $10 at the door\, all welcome \nThe Abbey is wheelchair accessible and seating considerations have been made to support those with mobility issues. \nFarima Berenji\nFarima Berenji is a scholar and an award winning\, internationally acclaimed performing artist\, instructor\, dance ethnologist\, and archaeologist. Farima is a third generation artist\, both her mother and grandmother were performing artists\, poets\, musicians and provided the foundation for Farima’s devotion to the world of arts. Her love and passion for dance and history has led her on an extraordinary life-long journey throughout the world\, from her home countries Iran and Azerbaijan to other neighboring Silk Road countries such as Armenia\, Kurdistan\, and Turkey. Her scholarly background includes in-depth studies of dance\, music\, poetry\, art\, history\, as well as mythology\, and the ancient and spiritual traditions of Iran and Central Asia. Farima travels worldwide to perform and teach dance and wellness. Read more… \nFor more information call Cathy Stoyko at (250) 218-0704\, or email cdstoyko@uniserve.com. URL:http://farimadance.com/event/nowruz-and-sema-gathering/ LOCATION:Abbey Studio\, 2687 Penrith Ave.\, Cumberland\, BC\, V0R 1S0\, Canada CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema),Performance ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/DSC_0200.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Cathy Stoyko":MAILTO:cdstoyko@uniserve.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190129T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20190129T203000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20181228T232147Z LAST-MODIFIED:20181230T012011Z UID:18144-1548790200-1548793800@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Sacred Circle DESCRIPTION:An evening of ancient mystical healing rituals including breath work\, Sufi zikr circle\, Hu meditation\, sufi walk meditation\, and more facilitated by Farima Berenji. \nOpen your heart\, body\, and mind in this mystical session of meditation\, breath work\, and healing led by Farima Berenji. We will seek the foundation of spiritual healing in the mysticism of vibration and sound\, realizing how all life emerges from silence\, and all things have sound hidden within them. We will open by awakening the soul in meditation to the word “Hu”\, the breath of the devine\, God\, then journey into healing with Farima’s unique 5 element breath therapy\, zikr (Sufi prayers)\, candle gazing\, and walking meditation. \nRegister online \nFarima Berenji\nFarima is an award winning\, internationally acclaimed performing artist\, instructor\, dance ethnologist\, and archaeologist. Recognized as one of few world experts and scholars of Persian dance history\, Farima infuses spirituality into her dance and teachings to impassion\, empower\, and inspire. She is the founder and artistic director of the Farima Dance Company and the Simorgh Dance Collective. Exposed from youth to various music and dance styles her love of dance has led her upon an extraordinary life-long journey throughout the world\, including her home countries Iran and Azerbaijan as well as other neighboring Silk Road countries\, where she has researched\, studied\, and performed with master teachers and performing artists. For over 15 years\, Farima has continued her passion traveling great distances to learn\, research\, lecture\, promote\, perform\, and to teach sacred\, classical\, and folk dances of the Silk Road. \nRead more… \nHow to Find Us\nThe nearest cross streets for the Center for Creative Living are 4th St and Koll Circle. Drive into the parking lot and proceed to the left\, AROUND TO THE BACK of the building. It is well lit and there is plenty of parking. Enter through the back door. URL:http://farimadance.com/event/sacred-circle/ LOCATION:Center for Creative Living\, 1460 Koll Circle\, Suite C\, San Jose\, CA\, 95112\, United States CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema) ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/SacredCircle.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20181222T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20181222T140000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20181129T072012Z LAST-MODIFIED:20181217T091153Z UID:18074-1545480000-1545487200@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Yalda: A Celebration of Light DESCRIPTION:Join us for ancient Iranic rituals celebrating Yalda (winter solstice)\, the longest night of the year and the birth of Mithra. \nShab-e Yalda (Yalda Night) is the Persian Winter Solstice Celebration on the eve of the Winter Solstice. The Persians believed that this night is the night of the birth of Ahura Mazda and Mithra\, Persian God of Light and Truth. He was born on the morning of the longest night of the year. \nThis outside gathering will be accompanied by sacred sounds and music\, poetry reading\, Zoroastrian mantras and prayers\, ancient Zoroastrian blessing rituals\, Persian mystical dance\, and light Yalda treats! \nWe will be meeting at the gazebo of Oak Meadow Park\, Los Gatos. When you arrive please be considerate and find a place on the picnic tables nearby to put your belongings rather than on the floor of the gazebo. \nFarima Berenji\nMagi (Ancient Iranic Shamanic Master)\, Dervish and Sufi Dance Master. \nFarima is an award winning\, internationally acclaimed performing artist\, instructor\, dance ethnologist\, and archeologist. Recognized as one of few world experts and scholars of Persian dance history\, Farima infuses spirituality into her dance and teachings to impassion\, empower\, and inspire. A Dervish and travels worldwide to research\, perform\, teach\, and inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance. Farima is founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective\, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO)\, and a 2018 TEDx lecturer. URL:http://farimadance.com/event/yalda-a-celebration-of-light/ LOCATION:Oak Meadow Park Gazebo\, 233 Blossom Hill Rd.\, Los Gatos\, CA\, 95032\, United States CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema) ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/46482333_2657807857563494_2473781556246740992_o.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20181006T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20181006T210000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20180829T051525Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180829T051707Z UID:17847-1538854200-1538859600@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Healing Circle (Zikr) DESCRIPTION:Sufi healing circle AKA Zikr lead by Farima Berenji. \nAll are welcome\, suggested donation $10 at the door. URL:http://farimadance.com/event/healing-circle-zikr/ LOCATION:Abbey Studio\, 2687 Penrith Ave.\, Cumberland\, BC\, V0R 1S0\, Canada CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema) ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/10-2.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Cathy Stoyko":MAILTO:cdstoyko@uniserve.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20181005T193000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20181005T223000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20180829T050946Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180920T060536Z UID:17843-1538767800-1538778600@farimadance.com SUMMARY:Dance Performances and Sema Gathering DESCRIPTION:Sema Gathering and dance performances by Farima Berenji and the Simorgh Dance Collective. All are welcome! \nDoors open 7:30PM\, Performances 8-9PM\, Sema 9-10:30PM \nSliding scale donation $10-15 at the door. URL:http://farimadance.com/event/performances-and-sema/ LOCATION:Abbey Studio\, 2687 Penrith Ave.\, Cumberland\, BC\, V0R 1S0\, Canada CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema),Performance ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/41990907_2529265970417684_8591373341619650560_n.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Cathy Stoyko":MAILTO:cdstoyko@uniserve.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20180814T203000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20180814T213000 DTSTAMP:20260527T054453 CREATED:20180406T070437Z LAST-MODIFIED:20180725T200230Z UID:17506-1534278600-1534282200@farimadance.com SUMMARY:"Hu" Meditation and Sema DESCRIPTION:Open your heart\, body\, and mind in this mystical session of meditation\, breath work\, and whirling led by Farima Berenji. We will seek the foundation of spiritual healing in the mysticism of vibration and sound\, realizing how all life emerges from silence\, and all things have sound hidden within them. We will open by awakening the soul in meditation to the word “Hu”\, the breath of the devine\, God\, then journey into healing with Farima’s unique 5 element breath therapy. Finally\, we will conclude by whirling (Sema) in silence with only the vibrations of the heart. \nPlease wear comfortable clothing and wear socks or soft soled shoes. If you choose to turn avoid eating a large meal 2 hours prior. \nFarima Berenji\nFarima is an award winning\, internationally acclaimed performing artist\, instructor\, dance ethnologist\, and archaeologist. Recognized as one of few world experts and scholars of Persian dance history\, Farima infuses spirituality into her dance and teachings to impassion\, empower\, and inspire. She is the founder and artistic director of the Farima Dance Company and the Simorgh Dance Collective. Exposed from youth to various music and dance styles her love of dance has led her upon an extraordinary life-long journey throughout the world\, including her home countries Iran and Azerbaijan as well as other neighboring Silk Road countries\, where she has researched\, studied\, and performed with master teachers and performing artists. For over 15 years\, Farima has continued her passion traveling great distances to learn\, research\, lecture\, promote\, perform\, and to teach sacred\, classical\, and folk dances of the Silk Road. \nRead more… \nHow to Find Us\nThe nearest cross streets for the Center for Creative Living are 4th St and Koll Circle. Drive into the parking lot and proceed to the left\, AROUND TO THE BACK of the building. It is well lit and there is plenty of parking. Enter through the back door. URL:http://farimadance.com/event/hu-meditation-and-sema/ LOCATION:Center for Creative Living\, 1460 Koll Circle\, Suite C\, San Jose\, CA\, 95112\, United States CATEGORIES:Meditation Gathering (Sema) ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:http://farimadance.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/HuMeditation-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Farima Dance":MAILTO:info@farimadance.com END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR