Wat is Biodanza?

Biodanza is not just an alternative discipline. It is an extension of the humanities in the same way that Freud, Jung, Reich and others have done. Authors who have contributed greatly to the research of systems of healing are part of the theoretical foundations of Biodanza. Biodanza is therefore not "something else", an alternative to what already exists elsewhere. It integrates, highlights and validates what others have brought to light when it comes to addressing the global potential of health. The power of Biodanza lies in expanding and enjoying movement as a foundation for human development.

​Biodanza is not a (dance) therapy, but it does have therapeutic effects. What is the difference? Dance therapy is a form of life support, which is offered both individually and in groups, based on the developmental needs of the client. Sometimes wounds and emotions are crystallized in the body and prevent us from moving forward with strength and joy. Dance therapy and Biodanza are two processes that reinforce each other: when healing wounds, life energy is released and this gives an extra impulse to the therapeutic process. Gestures don't lie, because although controlled by the brain, the form or quality of the movement is rooted in the unconscious. Rediscovering and cultivating your movements, sensations and feelings offers the opportunity to receive information about yourself and the way you perceive the world. Dance therapy has the same general goals as Biodanza and biocentric coaching. In therapy or coaching, we provide support to highlight a specific theme or life question with a predetermined goal. Biodanza integrates the body, vivencia and movement in group situations, thus opening up new therapeutic avenues. It is a system of prevention, existential rehabilitation, psychophysical integration (overcoming dissociations), relearning of affectivity, and can be used as an adjunctive treatment of mental disorders and psychosomatic diseases. The goal of traditional psychotherapy is to alleviate or heal complaints and illnesses, the goal of Biodanza, biocentric coaching and dance therapy is to develop the potential of global health and of (suppressed) possibilities and talents.

Biodanza offers movements structured in a systemic model that encompasses all human movement categories. The starting point is a holistic study of all movement methods. Every movement is an incarnation of a skill that is present in every human being and further integrates itself during the sessions and in daily life. Everyone is capable of performing these movements. The difference with many other dance and movement proposals is the carefulness and regularity with which Biodanza encourages and supports growth. An IBF recognized Biodanza facilitator has enjoyed a 4-year training of at least 64 full days (640 hours), and at least 350 hours of additional practical experience, 16 hours of supervision and additional in-depth work at home, preceded the presentation of a thesis and the award of the diploma. In addition, a Biodanza facilitator regularly undergoes training so that the accumulated expertise remains up to date and can be applied immediately.

When we look at nature, everything is rhythm of action and rest. The Biodanzales also follow that organic rhythm. The first part of the lesson we dance actively, then we slow down and rest. You dance individually, with others, and with the whole group. The music is carefully chosen and very varied. A lesson lasts about an hour and a half.

​It is best to dance in clothes that are flexible and allow fluid movement. Layers are also easy: if you get too hot, you take something off, if you cool down too much, you put something on again. We dance barefoot. Also bring a bottle of water.

You are never too old or too young to do Biodanza. A weekly Biodanza group represents the community in all its flavors and colours. So if you feel like dancing, sign up and just drop by!

In Biodanza a dance arises from natural movements within yourself. Being able to dance or like to dance is not necessary. We don't teach dance steps. That way you don't have to think all the time. This has the advantage that you can (learn to) enjoy your movements and relax.

Everyone is welcome, whether you are sure of your sexual orientation and gender identity, or you are searching. In Biodanza (relearning) enjoying (your movements) and who you are is fundamental.

Biodanza gives you the opportunity to relax your nervous system because we offer dances that activate both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. There is always a range between action and rest moments. You learn and experience that there are more possible answers to tensions than those you already apply automatically. And you find the right balance.

Biodanza is a system of 'human' development, where we grow together with the other. That is why we dance in groups, in which we support and stimulate each other.

You come out of the routine, you become more aware of your patterns and you are more open to the new. When you connect to your original potential you will start to align your life with it. For example, if you suffered from a negative self-image and you are getting more and more self-confidence, this can be the basis of decisions you make. You also fine-tune your way of dealing with others. Social contacts become easier and your way of looking at others also becomes broader and milder

Biodanza is a system in which the 5 senses are addressed to achieve transformation. In online activities that are derived from Biodanza, we can mainly address two (hearing and sight). Smelling, tasting and feeling the presence of the dancing other is not discussed. An online offer can never replace the versatile connection with people of flesh and blood. Nevertheless, an online offer can have beneficial effects in times of imposed social isolation such as illness and/or a pandemic. When qualified and experienced Biodanza facilitators delve into the methodology and its effects, an online offer can support participants from existing Biodanza groups or with experience.