The Dances of Universal Peace

are a group of simple dances to live music.

The focus of each dance is in the singing of a particular sacred phrase or phrases, inspired by many spiritual, religious and mystic traditions from around the world.

No experience is necessary; come alone or bring a friend.

All dances are taught to the group each time.

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ABOUT THE DANCES

This dancing could be called spiritual practice in motion and is often referred to as Body Prayer.
This group of Dances, simple and profound, are set to sacred texts and mantras of the world’s spiritual traditions. A Dance leader teaches participants the sacred phrase (lyrics), melody, and movements, often with live guitar and drum accompaniment. Leaders must subscribe to the International Dances of Universal Peace ethical guidelines.

Movements are inspired from the sacred texts and strive to embody the essence of the spiritual message and our relationship to Life. Soon the circle is singing and moving together, deepening into the sacred phrase with each repetition. For many, the Dances become a joyous way to share heartfelt connection with others. Deepening in the sacred phrase and the flow of the movements, dancers often experience an essential unity and encounter with Life that is difficult to describe in words. In this atmosphere of openness, acceptance and trust there’s a doorway to discover our true home in Wholeness and the Eternal.
These Dances were begun by a visionary mystic, teacher Samuel L. Lewis. “Murshid Sam” a disciple of the great Indian Sufi teacher Hazrat Inayat Khan, was also a recognized Zen roshi and a student of Jewish and Christian mysticism. His exchanges with Inayat Khan and dancer Ruth St. Denis helped empower the voices, musicianship, and energies blessing us now.

Communication

The Seattle Dances of Universal Peace uses a list-serve for general announcements at seattledup@groups.io
Please contact one of the moderators below to request an invitation to the group: Helen helengabel@gmail.com / Wakil drmatthewsusa@gmail.com

Our planning meetings are held on-line. Minutes for these meetings are listed here.

Winter dances will resume at 7400 Woodlawn/Emmaus Table, 7400 Woodlawn Ave NE, Seattle 98115 on October 10 from 1:00pm-3:00pm. Enter at the rear of the church.

The Fall/Winter schedule of indoor dances is on the events page. The Aramaic Lord’s Prayer will be held December 21 from 1:00-3:00.

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Our 2026 Fall Retreat is open for registration here.

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In summertime we dance outside

Our final 2026 summer Dance at Meridian Playground/Good Shepherd Center was held on Saturday 9/19. Stay tuned to our email list for next year’s dates and times.