December 2024 ~ Full Moon
As we draw to the end of 2024, I could write about many things near to my heart. At this full moon, I want to sing out about the extraordinary journey Open Floor International has been on since it launched its first programmes in 2014, and how close to my heart and soul it remains.
If you're enjoying Open Floor Movement Practice, or are simply curious, please read on... What happens on the dance floor is supported by a remarkable collective of people working away behind the scenes!
10 years of an experiment, with hours and hours devotedly donated by people all over the world, bringing embodiment and dance into being, honouring what's been before, and listening to what's asking to be incarnated.
And, if you are reading this, it's quite likely you, and/or someone you know, that has been influenced and inspired by this experiment.
Now we are here, entering a new phase, and I remain intimately involved with the development of the organisation. I've been a member of the Board for 2 years and in May '24 stepped into a role to oversee a necessary restructuring and decentralisation process (which is an astrological phenomenon of our time).
I am proud to be part of a group of people who are committed to doing things differently; continuing to learn about Sociocracy and alternative ways of decision-making that are more 'power with' than 'power over' in an efficient way; Open Source with our material because it's what the world needs and generosity inspires generosity.
In 2023 the board committed to our next evolution of OFI being sustainable and generative. Having made the decision just before the pandemic hit to move from a Training based organisational model to a non-profit Educational model... (hard timing) we are no longer able or willing to keep this arrangement where most are volunteers, generously gifting their time. This is because it leads to burnout, and is dependent on systemic advantages (eg. where you can financially afford to offer your time for free, and then benefit from being involved with the organisation), thereby not being congruent with our commitment to diversity and inclusiveness.
This means Open Floor International and the work it offers the world is dependent on those who can donate funds so it can fulfill its vision:
“Resourced by their own embodiment practice, people create adaptive and regenerative relationships with themselves, each other, and the planet.”
To do this we need your help to bring into being:
the growth and strength of OFI as a regenerative, global nonprofit organisation.
a structured yet flexible curriculum for Open Floor Movement Practice.
membership-based practical services and resources for OF teachers, practitioners, and professionals in a variety of fields seeking to incorporate Open Floor Movement Practice in their work.
That's why, underneath this, you'll see an invitation to donate for every dance that helped you feel better, or someone you know to feel better. If you can donate, no matter how small, it will help this vision flourish.
Every dance matters, every donation matters. Thank you.
All this is also to say, that alongside completing year 2 of my training in Systemic Constellations and co-delivering the final phase of OFI's EU Teacher Training, plus my work in-person and online, my behind-the-scenes work with OFI has also been happening in 2024.. which is why I am ready for a rest!
On the Winter Solstice next weekend, I will be releasing my 'Angel of Commitment', which has served me very well and am curious what 'Angel' I will journey with into 2025.
* Support Open Floor - A Decade of Dance 2014 - 2024
"As we approach the end of 2024, we invite you to revisit the unforgettable moments you’ve had on the dance floor – whether from this year or years past. Think back to those instants of deep connection with yourself or another, the unexpected rushes of joy, the insights that sparked new possibilities. Some of these moments shaped us profoundly; others simply helped us get through the day. The need to resource ourselves has never been greater than in these unpredictable times.
Imagine if each of those moments became a gift:
a donation of £1… £10 or £100 (or any amount!) in honour of these memories, could transform their impact.
With your support, Open Floor International can continue creating a more connected, inclusive, and thriving community. Whether you are a teacher, dancer, or supporter of movement, OFI needs you! Your contribution helps us connect dancers worldwide, empower teachers, create classes, workshops, and mentorships, and develop tools that strengthen our shared practice. Together, we can move the heart of the world."
You can view the rest of my December full moon newsletter here.