FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Please read the full download of the basic layout of the PUJAFUNK Journey, as it will give you a better idea of the format of the ritual. Beyond that, here are some of the questions that I am often asked addressing common concerns and curiosities. The bottom line is that you just need to jump in and experience PUJAFUNK for yourself!
“So is this just another Ecstatic Dance Jam?”
The Ecstatic Dance community is growing and expanding. PUJAFUNK is taking it to the next level by including guided ritual and group movement exercises interspersed with free dance time. I am inspired by creations such as Four-Rhythms, Kundalini Dance, Trance Dance and the like, but PUJAFUNK is uniquely its own Ecstatic Dance Ritual experience.
“Is this a dance class? I tend to have too left feet...”
No dance experience is necessary for the PUJAFUNK. It is an exploration of your own unique way of expressing yourself through movement to funky beats. We encourage you to be wild and free, or to be slow and still, however the music and mood moves you. Together we create a welcoming dance space free of judgment and competition.
“What kind of music do you play?”
We play danceable, movable, uplifting, inspirational groovy beats that are coming out of the cutting edge modern electronica music scene. Mid/Downtempo, Jazzy, World Beat, Funky, West Coast Breaks and Tribal Tunes from revolutionary artists can be found in our mixes. What you probably won’t find is annoying ear throbbing techno, rock ’n’ roll, commercial pop, oldies but goodies, heavy rap, cheesy new age music and the such, although we may throw in some old school funk once in a while! Our mixes vary depending on the theme, community and location of the event.
If you tend to be sensitive to loud music and sound we recommend you come with earplugs for your own comfort. If the sound system allows, we like to turn the music on high to create an all-encompassing trance like state for the journey.
“What should I wear?”
Whatever makes you feel beautiful, funky and uniquely you! It is best to wear loose fitting clothes that are comfortable to move in and possibly get sweaty, but also bring a layer if you tend to run cold. Be prepared to remove your shoes and be barefoot (sometimes socks can slip on wood floors) or bring supportive dance slippers if you have foot problems.
“So if this is a party, can I bring some libations?”
PUJAFUNK is a drug, alcohol and smoke free event. In our sobriety we can get really high on the energy in the room and raise our vibrations with dance and breath work. This is a sacred space. Please respect these intentions; if anyone is showing signs of intoxication you may be asked to leave.
“I’ve got this great perfume/cologne/essential oil blend yesterday and…”
Because we are sharing close quarters, we ask you to arrive fresh and clean and FRAGRANCE FREE (including strongly scented deodorants and hair products). Some of our participants may be sensitive to scents or have allergies. Also, do remember to brush your teeth and perhaps hold off on that garlic dinner before the PUJAFUNK as some of the breathing exercises can get out of hand. Breath mints are available if needed!
“What is a Puja?”
Puja (pronounced “poo-ja”), in Sanskrit, means “worship.” In our community ritual we worship the divine through our bodies, our dance and connection with the funky soul in all. With all due respect, this is not a traditional Hindu or Buddhist puja ritual. A portion of the PUJAFUNK journey includes a “puja” that is based on Neo-Tantric practices.
“So, is this one of those Tantric Sex Pujas then?”
Although we follow the format of a Neo-Tantric Puja, in the sense that we form two concentric circles and do soul gazing exercises with one another with the intention of expanding our heart centers, the PUJAFUNK puja is NOT sexual in nature. We do explore some Tantric meditation exercises that are focused on breath and sensual awareness by bringing spiritual energy to our heart and sacral energy centers.
“What if I am uncomfortable interacting with someone in the ritual?”
PUJAFUNK is a safe place for everyone to set their own boundaries. We make agreements in the beginning of the journey to respect each others space when needed. We have a universal mudra, or hand signal, that we can use to tell someone gently and with respect that we choose not to do an exercise with them. We also agree not to take it personally if someone gives us the signal because they may just need to be on their own journey at the moment.
“Why is this Puja not gender-balanced?”
When I led gender-balanced Tantric Pujas in the past I was frustrated with registration headaches of getting an equal number of males to females to sign up. It was heartbreaking to turn people away at the door because there were too many of one sex. Also, I want to dilute the polarity between the male/female dichotomy that is so prevalent in our society. The PUJAFUNK is about celebrating community with both our brothers AND our sisters.
“I’m not sure if I want to do Puja with another guy/gal?”
The exercises we share in PUJAFUNK are non-sexual in nature. Although it can be quite intimate to be gazing into the eyes of another, sexual orientation has nothing to do with it. It is an opportunity to open and expand our connections with both sexes. Amazing growth occurs when we push our boundaries around what we think we are comfortable with. Still, if an exercise is too intimate for your liking, there are ways for you to opt out without running for the door.
“I’d like to come with my own partner, do we really have to interact with everyone?”
Well, that is kinda the point, right? Often couples come to Pujas and want to do the exercises only with each other. In the PUJAFUNK I invite you to expand your horizons and try something new. As you move around the circle sharing exercises with other people you begin to open your heart to universal love for the community. By the time you come back to your partner you will see one another in a new light. Both of you will be so expanded and full of love for one another that most likely you make a dash to the bedroom after the dance is over.
“Can I come for just part of the PUJAFUNK?”
If people filter in and out during the event, it breaks the energy. Together we create a sacred space, and together we shall close the circle. Please plan on attending for the duration of the entire event. You are welcome to take bathroom breaks and breathers during certain transition times, but please stick around for the closing circle.
“I pre-registered and paid, but now I can’t attend. Can I get a refund?”
Refunds can be received up to 48 hours before the event, minus a minor processing fee. Payment will be sent back to you via Paypal unless some other arrangement was made. You can also forward your payment to the next event (if applicable). Sorry, last minute cancellations cannot be honored.
“How can I have a PUJAFUNK at my private event?”
Please see our booking page for info.