The Dance of Directions is a slow-moving prayer to the Earth and sky that clears the energetic pathways within the body-mind and the Earth. Through heart-felt intention and simple movement, the Dance guides one to attune to the land and the sacred directions. The Dance of Directions is from the tradition of the Ywahoo Lineage of the Tsalagi (Cherokee) Nation and was intentionally shared through the gift of generosity to all those of good heart to bring peace on the Earth. It can be practiced by people of all faiths and cultures. Certification is required to teach, and the instructor of this workshop was certified and given permission to teach for the purpose of peace. There is no charge to learn this dance as it was given in the spirit of generosity. 

In this workshop, participants will learn the movements of the Dance and their meanings. No dance experience is necessary; however, it is helpful if participants have good balance and moderate exercise ability. For those who are challenged with balance or gait, you are welcome to attend and receive benefits from adapting the movements in a chair. Please wear comfortable, loose clothing.

About the Instructor:

Christine Ione, RN, HTCP, is a certified practitioner of Healing Touch energy-based therapy; Workshop Facilitator for the Prepare for Surgery, Heal Faster Program, a mind-body approach to surgery and medical challenges; and instructor of contemplative movement. Christine initially learned the Dance of Directions in 2011, studied the philosophy, and was certified and given permission to teach in 2017 through the Sunray Meditation Society. She shared this class with the EcoVillage at Ithaca community in 2020 and 2022 when she was a resident. She is returning to share it once more along with another form of contemplative movement called Body Prayer.