“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.”
–Albert Camus
Dear Friends,
In recent weeks and months, many around the world have been stricken with fear, have seen isolation and sadness, and in despair have searched for hope. An old Russian proverb states “Hope is the last thing to die.” How do we find hope when we face such an uncertain and chaotic world? Therapists, pastors, and social scientists agree on several tenets we can practice to find and share hope in our lives. A powerful way to develop a sense of meaning and cope with crisis is to step outside of ourselves and be of service to others. When we can put ourselves in another person’s shoes it helps us transcend beyond our own problems and concerns. Among all means, a primary way to find hope is to challenge ourselves to make a commitment to growth and find hidden inside us what we are truly capable of.
In my work with people facing cancer or trauma I’ve found that all levels and ages of people who participate in a program of dance, meditation, and breath work improve their dignity and vitality. Dance therapy is about connecting a person to his or her body. This month I’ve added new and fun dance and meditation classes to develop new skills, open eyes to the world about us, and feed the brain.
My continuing or new students this month should experience Ornate Gestures, a class to develop expressive gestures in your dance, and Dance of the Divine Nature, a class in search of nature in sacred and mystic dance. More people are discovering my Sacred Circle and Sufi Lecture class for meditation and mystic discussion so I have added an additional gathering on Thursdays.
On Jan. 6, I offer a 2hr introductory workshop on Sufi whirling. For those who want only a sample, then join a mini-whirling workshop combined with sacred dance, meditation, and whirling and attend my monthly Dance of the Soul on Jan. 16.
All my courses meet online and it is a blessing how many wonderful people around the world join in.
Come visit me on Patreon and for your monthly support subscription receive special event previews and behind-the-scenes peeks, educational materials, lectures, and mini-tutorial videos. We also have a new Facebook group that members and friends of the Simorgh Dance Collective are invited to explore and share as forum.
Wishing you hopeful, happy 2021!
Farima
“It’s your road, and yours alone, others may walk it with you, but no one can walk it for you.”
~Rumi