Sufism is a stream of knowledge which roots are reaching back several thousands of years. It is a technology of personal growth and awakening which is taught until today in several mystery schools called Tariqat in Arabic language. The ultimate goal of Sufism is to bring the connection between the human being and the divine into a personal experience.

We believe that spiritual practice is not something separated from our body, furthermore, body mind and spirit forms something One, which could be interesting to discover. The Sufi tradition uses its own techniques to make the relationship with our body clear and tangible. Based on the connection between body, mind, and soul, we use Sufi methods to address the diverse imprints left within us by our life's journey. Through regular and mindful practice, we can gain conscious access to these imprints and understand the learning potential hidden within them. This lays the foundation for a conscious identity. The Sufi tradition refers to the body as the first gate of healing. The goal is a healing process in the sense of becoming whole—not only for the client but also for the healer and the entire community.

Sufi bodywork essentially comprises four aspects:

• Al-Haraka Al-Muqaddas – These "Sacred Movements" consist of movement sequences that train coordination and awareness, thereby refining the connection between body and mind.

• Dhikr means "Remembrance of God" through chanting divine names. Its powerful effect is based on the connection of rhythmic movement, voice, and breath.

• Sama – The whirling dance of the dervishes expands perception.

• Lataif – Experiencing the subtle body centers and their energies, particularly the heart center.

During this weekend seminar, we will focus especially on the first two aspects mentioned. The training is based on practical exercise and experience.

Magical Steps, Sacred Dances from the Sufi Tradition

Every journey begins with the first step... It is crucial how consciously this step is taken. In all ancient cultures, ritual step and movement sequences were known to affect the practitioner's consciousness and perceptive ability. From many ancient cultures, archaic dancing sequences have been handed down, which have direct impact on our consciousness and our abilities of perception. Some of these have been passed down to us through the Naqshbandi-Rashidiya Sufi tradition, and we can also use them for our journey today.

To practice them is a form of meditation in motion, which opens the door to a conscious experience of the unity of body, mind and soul and to become a complete human being. The roots of these sacred dances are thousands of years old. Many of the ancient sacred dances where developed in Central Asia and still used in Sufi tradition. Practicing this dances we are diving into our inner space and the same time they are related to the space around and to other people. With diligent practice human beings tried to reach the divine and have support for their lives and communities.

From ancient times till our days mystic paths and mystic knowledge were surviving in rapidly changing world keeping something what is beyond any changes and forms.  Even today there is a strong relevance to the magic of old traditions and the ability to surrender to a lifelong path.