*RAKS GOTHIQUE*

Welcome to our Raks Gothique section. Here you will find a description of what Raks Gothique means to me and how I teach Raks Gothique within Desert Moon Dancers.
Here you can explore pictures and be captivated by the creative expression of the UMBRA dancers and also friends of Desert Moon Dancers from around the globe who share this passion.

What is Raks Gothique to DMD

Raks Gothique is a Dark/Mystique Fusion aspect of belly dance, that takes us on a journey to the shadow self, to bring healing, self expression and self empowerment. Integrating the shadow self is important because it unifies, brings balance and connects you to the innermost self.

Denying the shadow self or suppressing this natural aspect, is denying our truth, our emotions. Through Raks Gothique you are able to access this part of the self and express it in a positive way through dance. You are choosing through inner strength to share this expression in a unique and safe way, ultimately shining light into the dark caverns of the soul and bringing about harmony, healing and inner peace.

It is a powerful and transformative experience which deepens the meaning of your dance. There are no rules within this dance form, only imagination, freedom of creativity and spirit.

How I Teach Raks Gothique:

On my life journey I have learnt that yin and yang, day and night, light and shadow are in all things. So by living consciously ~ being aware of my choices and emotions, I have been able to heal many aspects of my life and empower my dance in unique and magickal ways.

When I teach Raks Gothique, I am opening a door that offers you a tool to do the same. Freeing your mind from limitations and taught perceptions, to a new realm of limitless possibilities of expression.

We look at movement in a new way, always with a core that comes from the dance language of
ancient times, yet fused with emotion and expression that is individual and meaningful. From isolated robotic movements to serpentine movements of nature. From Ambient music, to Darkwave, Industrial, Punk Goth, Goddess Ethereal, EBM, Techno Goth and much more within the Fusion music spectrum.

Props are an important aspect of Raks Gothique dance, from Wings, Fire, Veils, Masks, Swords/Daggers, Symbolic Ornaments, Snakes, Zills, and any other creation within your imagination.

**Most importantly be yourself…don’t just follow others. Allow your individual expression to unfold. Don’t force your growth, let it bloom as it will. Embrace your truth and magick shall fill your life and with it joy, peace, clarity, love and balance will flower.

Warmest Blessings Dani **