A new form of mindful movement called Ecstatic Dance has made its way to the Mississippi Gulf Coast. This dance wave has taken hold in the U.S. as people recognize the benefits of moving their bodies through dance. Somatic movement is awareness or presence during movement, focusing on the internal experience of the body and mind rather than what the outward appearance looks like.

“Ecstatic Dance allows an individual to potentially process emotional and psychological pain in a healthy way by changing the body’s physiology via the dance,” says Amanda Schmidt, owner of Wild Flier boutique in Ocean Springs and co-founder of Gulf Coast Ecstatic Dance. “It’s about having a heightened, elevated and blissful experience without the use of alcohol or substances. It allows one to connect with the earth, as most do this barefoot. Cell phones are left outside to provide a space to connect with oneself.”

Talking is not permitted on the dance floor, which allows people to communicate through movement and sounds. It also facilitates an atmosphere of safety, allowing one to express themselves authentically without fear or worry of being exploited or preyed on.

Gulf Coast Ecstatic Dance is now holding monthly events. Find them on Facebook or Instagram for dates, times and locations.

Amanda Mavar-Schmidt (DJ Ananda Bliss) is a co-founder of Gulf Coast Ecstatic Dance and owner of Wild Flier boutique in Ocean Springs. ShopWildFlier.com.