Dancing Presence and Awareness: 'Khaita – Joyful Dances' as a Mindfulness Practice

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• Abstract(s)
  • In this article, I argue that the dance practice of ‘Khaita – Joyful Dances’ has been intentionally designed as a mindfulness practice with the aim of fostering presence and awareness by the Dzogchen master Namkhai Norbu. The three Khaita principles of awareness (Dems, Gyu and Drig) revolve around aspects of proprioception, smooth movements, musicality, spatial and group awareness and guide dancers to the here and now. They demand non-judgmental, purposeful and non-reactive attention, hence mindfulness, that results in more mature states of awareness and presence.
• Date Issued 2024-03-15
• Author(s) Leick, Eva Looking for ORCID... | University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna Looking for ROR...
  
• DOI 10.5920/pam.1478
• Publication Type journal article
• Language en
• Subjects dance Khaita mindfulness awareness presence Tibetan dance Dzogchen