Service Description

Pneuma Dance merges the essence of classical Indian and Eastern dances, rooted in the sacred practices of temple priestesses and devadasis—“Women of Light and Servants of God”—who used dance as a pure form of worship and inner transformation. Stylistically, Indian Fusion movement vocabulary is inspired by cultural dances from India and the Middle East, including their modern evolutions. This dance bridges modern and folkloric Bellydance/Raqs Sharqi vocabulary with the extensive postures and spins of North Indian classical and folk dances, as well as the intricate eye, hand, and facial expressions characteristic of Eastern Indian classical dance. Elements of Central Asian dances are also woven seamlessly into this rich tapestry. Developed by Shamti Ruiz, Pneuma Dance fuses contemporary movement awareness with ancient techniques, incorporating conscious breathing, prayer, improvisation, and choreography. This holistic approach allows dancers to deeply understand the sacred components of movement, exploring symbols and archetypes across diverse ritual traditions. Pneuma Dance is both ancient and modern—expressing timeless qualities and values—inviting a transformative experience beyond the physical and emotional. It fosters devotion, service, and authentic self-expression, reconnecting practitioners with divine energy through the art of movement.