Your first dance
Curious? That's enough.
No experience, no partner, no special clothes. Here are honest answers to the questions most people have before their first time.
01What will happen?
You'll arrive, take your shoes off and settle in. The facilitator opens with a short circle explaining the evening and how consent works. Then a solo warm-up to music, a series of short guided partner exercises, and a gentle close. The exact format is confirmed for each event.
02Who will I be dancing with?
Other people who are curious — first-timers and experienced movers alike. Each dance lasts about three tracks; when it ends you're invited to change partner if you wish, so you'll meet several people. If you've come as a couple, you're welcome to stay together for the whole evening instead. Both choices are completely normal.
03What if I feel nervous?
Almost everyone does at first. The opening exercises are simple and solo, so you can find your feet. You can take a break whenever you like, and there's always someone to talk to.
04Is there physical contact?
Yes. Tantric Dance is a close, full-body partner dance and touch is a natural part of it. You are always in charge of your boundaries. You can say no, adjust the contact, or step out at any point, and every no is respected.
05Can I come alone?
Yes. Most people do, and the rotating format means no one is left out.
06How does leading and following work?
In pairs, one person leads with their whole body, and the other follows with eyes closed, surrendering into the movement. One dance lasts about three tracks, with the same person leading throughout. When it ends you're invited to choose again: new partner, new role, or neither — couples may stay together throughout. There's no right way. The interesting part is noticing what feels natural, what feels new, and what you actually want.
07What will the space feel like?
Warm, unhurried and friendly. Soft lighting, a carefully chosen music journey, and plenty of room. More like a gathering than a class.
What to wear
Comfortable clothes you can move in. Barefoot or soft socks.
Music
A curated journey, from soft and slow to rhythmic and joyful.
Eyes closed
The receiving partner dances with eyes closed, to feel rather than look. You can open them at any time.
Your choice
Every exercise is an invitation. Adapt it, pause, or sit out.
The rules of the dance
- Respect each other's body, space and mind.
- Do not touch each other's sexual body parts.
- Dances are with clothes on.
- No talking during dancing.
- Stop the dance when this is indicated.
- Tell the teacher about any medical conditions before the session.
- Tantric Dance is not a sexual practice and not a therapy group.
How to stop a dance
There are two simple signals, one for each role. Either partner can use theirs at any moment, for any reason, and no explanation is ever needed.
- If you're leading
- Gently tap your partner's hand. This lets them know you're bringing the dance to a close, or that you'd like to pause.
- If you're receiving (eyes closed)
- Bring your hands together in prayer position at your heart (Namaste). Your partner will stop straight away and gently let go.
When either signal is given, the dance ends with care. You can then take a moment, lift your blindfold, find a new partner, or step out. If you'd like support, a helper is always close by.
We practise both signals together at the start of every session, so everyone knows them before the first dance begins.
More questions.
What is Tantric Dance?+
A guided movement practice that uses music, simple partner exercises and presence to explore leading and following, giving and receiving, boundaries and surrender. There are no steps to learn.
Do I need experience?+
None at all. Every session is guided from the beginning, and experienced movers are just as welcome.
Can I come alone?+
Yes — most people do. You're invited to change partner after each dance, so you'll never be left without someone to dance with.
Is Tantric Dance sexual?+
No. Tantric Dance is not a sexual practice. It can be intimate and sensual, and that intimacy is held consciously, with clear boundaries and respect.
Is there physical contact?+
Yes. Tantric Dance is a close, full-body partner dance and touch is a natural part of it. You are always in charge of your boundaries. You can say no, adjust the contact, or step out at any point, and every no is respected.
What happens if I feel uncomfortable?+
You can pause, decline an exercise or step out at any time, without explanation. The facilitator and assistants are always available to talk.
What should I wear?+
Comfortable clothes you can move in. We usually dance barefoot or in soft socks.
Is it suitable for couples?+
Beautifully so. Couples may choose to dance together throughout, or take the invitation to change partners when a dance ends.
Are all ages and genders welcome?+
Yes. Everyone aged 18 and over is welcome, whatever your gender, body, background or orientation.
Where in Devon are events held?+
Our next Tantric Dance Celebration in Devon will be announced soon. We'll share the venue when it's confirmed — sign up to hear first.