Movement-Based Spirituality

Spiritual formation in churches often emphasizes words and thoughts with a focus on saying or believing the “right thing.” Our bodies are often ignored, forgotten, or even viewed with suspicion. In this way, faith can become a disembodied experience, especially when theologies treat certain people’s bodies (queer, female, BIPOC) as suspect and needing to be controlled.

A different way to approach spiritual formation starts with the conviction that we are created in God’s image as good, trusting that the Spirit is moving and at work in our very being. In this way, we are invited to listen to the wisdom of our bodies and practice moving in a way that shapes us into more loving, just, and faithful people.

It is through practice that we are transformed, because the things we do over and over become embedded in our very muscles and tissues. We cannot simply think our way into becoming more compassionate, peaceful, and courageous people; we repeatedly move our way into embodying the fruits of the Spirit.

Remove your shoes before stepping onto the mat.
There is a shoe rack on the right side of the room where you can store them. Bags and other belongings can be placed next to the shoe rack or on the window benches. No food or beverages should be taken onto the mat.

Make sure your phone is silenced and put away.
The dojo is a place to be fully present in our bodies; we put screens away so that we and others are not distracted. If you need to text or call, please step outside of the dojo to use your phone.

Close the doors.
Make sure to fully close the doors behind you to minimize distractions inside and outside the dojo.

Keep the dojo clean.
There is special equipment to clean the mats; if you sweat on the mat, use the cleaner to wipe it down. Make sure that items are put away and the dojo is kept tidy.