Nicholas Roerich, Mongol Tsam, 1928
Joseph Houseal explores the legacy of the renowned Russian explorer and cultural preservationist
As a religious, philosophical, and ritual expression, dance has an important role in the practice of Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, and other Asian belief systems. Long unbroken transmissions of movement forms are reflected in religious artistic depictions, where performative iconography is mystical code as well as movement illustration.
In his column Ancient Dances, Joseph Houseal looks at the aspects of dance and spirituality to enhance practice and appreciation among readers, and to raise cultural awareness in our changing world. He uses dance as a lens to explore states of consciousness and symbolic representations.
Ancient Dances is published monthly.
Joseph Houseal explores the legacy of the renowned Russian explorer and cultural preservationist
Joseph Houseal concludes his series on Faeries, dakinis, nuns, and mikos with writing from elemental faery magician, Althea Northage-Orr.
Joseph Houseal explores the mysteries of esoteric ritual dance in Japan, and profiles practitioner Elizabeth Tinsley
Joseph Houseal explores the world of Buddhist ritual dance and profiles two Western exponents and practitioners, and their unique perspectives
Cultural echoes of the sacred feminine in East and West
BDG columnist and dance researcher Joseph Houseal examines the role of setting in traditional tantric cham dance
Exploring the modern stewardship of an ancient Japanese cultural legacy
Consciousness and sacred dance—an overview of our modern understanding of, and relationship with, altered states of mind
An exploration of Asian dance traditions at the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco
Exploring the legacy and impact of an early Western student of Japanese culture and Buddhism
A New Year meditation on mindful stillness from Ancient Dances columnist Joseph Houseal
The mysterious and ancient roots of Buddhist ritual dance in Sri Lanka