Dancing Through Astrology: Exploring Aries and Libra through Movement and Reflection

We began the class by presenting the Dancing Ideas program, Dancing Through Astrology—a practice of learning about the 12 zodiac signs and each person’s natal chart through listening and dancing. The astrology we chose to use is Modern Western, i.e., Greco-Roman, meaning it is an interpretation of the reinterpretation of centuries of hegemonic history. We recognize that there is no single truth or way to interpret the sky. Many cultures have their own ways of observing and telling stories about it. We use the hegemonic approach for simplicity and to create a common ground (or, in this case, sky).

We explained that the class consists of two parts: free exploratory expression (#expressivebodydance) and a more choreographed movement sequence (#contemporarydance). In both cases, the more people, the better! We also encourage extra time for reflection, writing, and sharing. (We didn’t have time for this in the first class, but we’ll try to incorporate it into the upcoming ones.)

We begin by acknowledging and valuing the custodians of this land and their practices of observing the cosmos. We start by lying on the floor to connect with the earth and imagine ourselves surrounded by the sky. Literally, WE ARE INSIDE THE GALAXY. The sky is not above us; it’s all around us, continuously applying macrocosmic forces.

We continue with a visualization to dissolve the boundaries of our bodies, quickly entering the dissolution of Pisces. From there, at the end of the zodiac wheel, we activate the Aries Awakening, the divine spark. We suggested small or large explosive movements that fade quickly. (What moves you? What makes you explode? Was it easier for you to make micro or macro, short, quick movements?)

We then explored those same movements while moving through space, using examples like burning or fighting. Charlie explained the importance of pausing between movements to fully feel the explosion in the body.

Next, we explored the use of the head, which represents Aries. We moved our heads in different directions and used them as a movement engine, advancing like a ram with its horns. We danced to Boss Bitch to integrate all of Aries.

As we walked to recover from Aries' energy, we introduced Libra. Both Aries and Libra are Cardinal signs, but while Aries moves forward with force, Libra leads and moves in different directions—its movement can be more hesitant.

The body parts associated with Libra are the hips and balance. The hips help us change direction in our steps and jumps. We moved with these concepts and began integrating the presence of others in the space—approaching, distancing, copying movements, reacting in time and action, etc. Then, we did a round of moving through space using our hips, adding small jumps or axis shifts. While watching each other, I asked: Isn’t it beautiful? What is beauty?

We played with the challenge of trying to reach a destination while hesitating and changing directions along the way. We experienced the Libran irony: if reaching the wall was the goal, it only served as a pretext for dancing along the way. The song ended before we reached the other wall, making the process itself the real experience. It was fun to create in the moment!

Finally, we taught a partner movement sequence using different romantic songs (since it’s Libra, ha!). The sequence integrated Aries and Libra movements—sparks, balances, types of connection, opposing forces, off-axis movements, and the use of head and hips. We explored the sequence with different dynamics and tensions: softer, stronger, slower, faster, more connected, more staccato. Throughout, there were small verbal exchanges, giggles, and dance.

We filmed and ended the class!

Summary of concepts explored in the first class – Aries and Libra:

• Aries: Fire / Spark / Explosion / Sudden, forceful movement.

  • Body responses: Heat, activation, agitation, fatigue.

• Libra: Air / Doubt / Romanticism / The space between people / Relationships / More connected movement.

  • Body responses: Activation of peripheral vision, awareness of the center, more space for play, concentration.

Homework:

We invite you to complete your subjective register! It might seem small, but it’s a great tool for integrating the experience.

See you in the next class for Taurus-Scorpio! (If you can, bring a long scarf or shawl, along with water, paper, and a pen!)

Thank you!

PS:

Libra is not only connected to the hips but also to the kidneys and the purification of waters. The kidneys are linked to fear processing. If our kidneys are deficient, we may struggle with fearful thoughts, and vice versa.

Meanwhile, Aries energy pushes forward regardless of fear. So, we see a fascinating interrelationship:

• Is Libra purifying the fear that Aries refuses to acknowledge?

• Is Aries putting the body in motion before Libra has time to hesitate?

In what ways is Aries' explosive, forceful, and sometimes angry energy beneficial? How does Libra’s hesitant, diplomatic, and analytical nature help us adapt and change course?

Aries' violent, direct energy can be helpful when we need to act fearlessly, break through obstacles, and defend what’s ours. But, is Aries rushing forward without considering the consequences?

Meanwhile, Libra's deliberate and diplomatic nature helps us analyze situations, bringing fairness and balance. But, do we need a cold and clear head to embody justice?

Are Aries and Libra constantly balancing each other? And when we defend something, is it because someone else is trying to conquer or win us over?

Perhaps the relationship between Venus (ruling Libra) and Mars (ruling Aries)—desire and war—is more intertwined than we think.