5 RHYTHMS
5Rhythms is a movement meditation—an embodied practice of self-discovery, release, and renewal. It invites us to move through the rhythms of Flowing, Staccato, Chaos, Lyrical, and Stillness, each offering a different pathway into authentic expression.
What Are the 5Rhythms?
The 5Rhythms are a simple yet profound movement practice designed to release the dancer that lives in everybody, regardless of shape, size, age, or experience. Together, these rhythms form The Wave, a movement meditation that unfolds uniquely every time you step onto the dance floor.
While the practice is deceptively simple, it holds the power to catalyze deep healing. Gabrielle Roth, the founder of 5Rhythms, taught that:
“If you put the psyche in motion, it will heal itself.”
FLOWING
The rhythm of fluidity, receptivity, and grounded presence.
STACCATO
The rhythm of clarity, boundaries, and expression.
CHAOS
The rhythm of release, surrender, and transformation.
LYRICAL
The rhythm of expansion, lightness, and effortless movement.
STILLNESS
The rhythm of integration, emptiness, and deep listening.
What Happens on the Dance Floor?
Every class is a unique experience—because you are different every time you show up. The energy of the room, the group, and the teacher shape the journey. Some sessions will move through the entire Wave, while others might focus on a single rhythm or a specific element of the practice.
What can I expect?
A space to move at your own pace—this is not about performance.
A deeply personal journey while also being held in community.
A safe container to explore, push edges, release, and integrate.
A chance to meet resistance, surrender to the unknown, and move into new possibilities.
How do I start?
Go at your own pace.
Be responsible for your own body (listen to injuries, honor your limits).
Keep your eyes open and stay aware of others.
Move how you feel and stay open to change.
Remember—everything alive has a dance. Find and express yours.
And most importantly—enjoy yourself. (Excessive seriousness may slow you down!)
A 5 Rhythms wave demonstration by Scott Houston