Dance Into Joy

Dance Into Joy is an ecstatic dance retreat for body and soul, held over a spring weekend at the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. It is led by Jurian Hughes and Jovinna Chan, and it is open to anyone who wants to move, whether or not they have ever danced. Beginners are welcome.

The weekend draws on dance as one of the world's oldest ritual practices, from the whirling dervish and the Shakers to the waltz and the rave. The idea is that we dance for joy, cleansing and clarity, guided by a wisdom that goes beyond the thinking brain.

What to Expect

You follow the lead of your body and breath. Music, movement and reflection come together in sessions that alternate ecstatic movement with deep stillness. Along the way you practice full body presence, cleanse "from your core through your pores," and give your mind room to freshen and clear. Journaling is woven through the sessions, so there is time to take in what moves through you.

The weekend runs from an opening evening to a closing morning, with a steady daily rhythm:

- Opening day: check-in begins at 2:00 pm, followed by a Kripalu Yoga class, dinner, and a first program session from 7:30 to 9:00 pm.
- Full day: yoga from 6:30 to 7:45 am, silent breakfast, a program session from 9:00 to 11:30 am, lunch, another session from 1:30 to 4:00 pm, an evening yoga class, and dinner.
- Closing day: morning yoga, silent breakfast, a final session from 9:00 to 11:30 am, then lunch and departure.

Actual times and room locations can shift, so check the schedule you receive at check-in.

About Jurian Hughes and Jovinna Chan

Jurian Hughes and Jovinna Chan lead the weekend as a duo, known for their creativity, their sense of fun, and their deep love of dance. They bring a heart-filled approach meant to support, connect and enliven the group, and to help each person find fresh energy and clarity in relationship to themselves, their community and the world.

The Setting

The program takes place on the Kripalu campus in Stockbridge, in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts. Accommodations are intentionally simple, meant to help you unplug and feel grounded. You can choose a private room for rest and solitude, or a community-style dormitory at a lower nightly rate if you would rather share the experience with others. Rooms are ready by 4:00 pm, and a luggage room is available if you arrive earlier.

Three meals are served each day, and breakfast is taken in silence. On the day of departure, room check-out is at 10:00 am, and you may stay on campus and take part in workshops until 2:00 pm.

Before You Go

No dance experience is needed, only a willingness to let go of limitation and move at the pace your body allows. Bring comfortable clothing, with layers recommended, a journal, and a refillable water bottle. You may dance barefoot, or wear clean, comfortable shoes that support you.

Tuition covers ten or more daily yoga classes, three meals a day, and access to the Kripalu grounds. Accommodations are required and booked separately. Healing Arts sessions and purchases at the Kripalu Shop and Cafe are extra.