The Dances of Universal Peace is a tradition that integrates spirituality with the construction of ecological societies. This practice, born in the United States in the 1960s and present in Colombia, promotes a deep connection with nature and community through movement and song.
What are the dances of universal peace?
Every month, this place hosts the Dances of Universal Peace, a tradition inspired by the social movements of the 1960s, when the world experienced a significant cultural transformation. Samuel Lewis, its creator, designed these dances as a way to connect body, mind and spirit through harmonious movements and mantras from various spiritual traditions.
Spirituality and sustainability: the basis for a green society
- How do the Dances of Peace influence social transformation?
The world is facing an unprecedented ecological crisis. Many experts argue that the roots of this crisis lie in a cultural system based on domination and unlimited growth, promoted by economic models such as extractivist capitalism. Concepts such as patriarchy, neocolonialism, classism and anthropocentrism describe these power structures that separate human beings from nature.
In this context, the Dances of Universal Peace represent a way to reconnect with the planet and foster values of empathy, generosity and altruism, fundamental to transform our development model towards environmental regeneration.
- Samuel Lewis and the birth of the peace dances
Samuel Lewis, a Sufi spiritual master and mystic, created these dances with the purpose of integrating spirituality into daily life. His vision of a society based on cooperation and peace continues to this day in many communities around the world.
- The experience in the Ecoaldea Feliz, Colombia
During my experience in the Ecoaldea Feliz, I observed how these dances serve as a channel to overcome cultural and religious barriers. Unlike strictly religious practices, these dances allow for a more universal and inclusive experience, where people can explore their spirituality without adhering to specific dogmas.
This phenomenon reflects a global trend: more and more people consider themselves spiritual but not religious, seeking experiences that allow them to connect with transcendental values and a less materialistic lifestyle.
Final reflection: How to integrate spirituality into environmental activism?
From my experience with the Dances of Universal Peace, I have learned a key lesson: in order to face today's environmental challenges, it is necessary to integrate diverse worldviews. The dialogue between spirituality and ecology can help to build a more harmonious, sustainable and conscious society.
