5Rhythms Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the difference between a class and a workshop?
A. Classes are short-format Waves sessions, the foundational 5Rhythms map, that occur on a regular (generally weekly) schedule and typically last for 2 hours. Classes with Layah are open to anyone from new-comers to long-time practitioners. Workshops are longer-format events (from half-day to multiple days) that explore one or more of the 5Rhythms maps (Waves, Heartbeat, Cycles, Mirrors, etc.) providing an opportunity for in-depth study. Attendance at workshops may require prerequisites of a certain number of hours of, or previous attendance at other 5Rhythms classes or workshops.
Q. Do I need experience or some minimum level of fitness?
A. No experience or level of fitness is required to begin your 5Rhythms practice.
Q. I have/had an injury. Can I still do 5Rhythms?
A. The 5Rhythms is a simple and flexible practice that can be experienced by anyone regardless of their physical limitations. Because there is no specific “routine” to follow you will be able to participate at your own pace, within your own capacity to move.
Q. Are 5Rhythms classes appropriate for children?
A. 5Rhythms can be wonderful for children, however typically my regular 5Rhythms classes are geared towards adults. Unless a class is specifically listed as a family/all-ages class, or a class specifically for children, please email me ahead of time to explore whether my adult class will be a good fit for your child/teen. Thank you!
Q. What happens in a 5Rhythms class?
A. While every class is different, each class will provide basic instruction in the 5Rhythms, whether that is the full Wave (the 5Rhythms in sequence) or focusing on one or another of the rhythms and its energies. There will be a warm-up period, some verbal teaching, and exercises for exploring the teaching. Teachers may use a variety of different kinds of music, or no music at all, to support embodying the rhythms. There may be a combination of individual, partnered, and group work. Some classes are more structured than others but all classes provide the opportunity to be moved by and with the 5Rhythms.
Q. What do I need to bring to a 5Rhythms class?
A. It is suggested that you dress comfortably in clothing that you don’t mind sweating in and allows you a full range of motion. You may want to bring a cover-up so you don’t get cold, and/or a small towel to dry off with. We dance bare-footed or in light-soled dance shoes. Bring a bottle of water and your curiosity. That’s all you need.
Q. What if I’m REALLY terrified?
A. First of all remember that right on the other side of that terror there’s excitement. Take to heart that the 5Rhythms practice has the room for you to move with however you’re feeling. There’s nothing to get right and you can’t get it wrong so there is nothing for you to “do” except move in whatever way feels right in the moment. You will not be the first person to be so terrified that you just barely made it over the threshold of the door. Once in the room I will encourage you to move to your full potential and I will also give you the space to move into your potential from wherever you are. I welcome questions by phone or email.
Q. How much does it cost?
A. Most classes cost what an average yoga class would cost. As of Fall 2021, Layah's 5Rhythms classes have a tiered pricing system from $20-$35 to help address rising class production expenses (higher rents, and rapid antigen tests), and a wide spectrum of financial realities amongst our movement community. All classes are by pre-registration at this time, and you can pay by e-transfer or Paypal.
Q. How do I become a teacher?
A. In the practice of anything, some of us reach a point where we are called to give back to our community. If you are interested in becoming a teacher the best way to start is to dive into regular weekly classes and workshops whenever possible, to deepen your embodiment and understanding of the practice. Please note that only classes and workshops with members of the 5Rhythms Teachers' Association (listed at www.5Rhythms.com) will count towards prerequisite hours.
Each teacher in the 5Rhythms teaching circle is meant to share the deeper teachings of the 5Rhythms as a philosophy, perspective, and practice in their own individual way and drawing from their personal experience in this life. To become a 5Rhythms teacher you must complete a year-long certification program, which involves 3 modules of in-person training, mentoring, assignments, and community service. Before being eligible to apply, applicants must complete certain minimum requirements of 5Rhythms study. The prerequisites are not there as barriers for you to get through or leap over, but are there to prepare you for teaching as deeply and fully as possible, by entering your own journey and meeting yourself deeply through the dance. Below are the main requirements for applying to 5Rhythms Teacher Training. Please visit http://www.5rhythms.com/gabrielle-roths-5rhythms/the-dancing-path/teacher-trainings/ for more information about Teacher Training prerequisites and the application process.
* A minimum of 3 years of study.
* WAVES - 300 hrs, including minimum 2 Waves weekend workshops (3 days, 15 hrs total), 1 five-day Waves workshop (25 hrs minimum), and 1 Waves workshop with Jonathan Horan.
* HEARTBEAT - a minimum of 15 days of study, with at least 2 different teachers. One five-day Heartbeat workshop is required.
* CYCLES - a minimum of 2 workshops, 10 days of study total.
* MIRRORS - a minimum of 20 days of study as follows:
* GOD, SEX, AND THE BODY - minimum of 1 workshop, 4-5 days of study
* ELECTIVES - 15 days of additional study with any 5RTA member including:
Combined or mixed with other disciplines outside of the 5Rhythms
Specialty workshops within the 5Rhythms maps
Additional pure curriculum level workshops as listed above.
Q. Should I dance with just one 5Rhythms teacher?
A. In a word, "no". The 5Rhythms practice is rich with the teachings of many hundreds of certified teachers internationally - each teacher bringing their own unique flavour, style, and passion for the work. Many of us have 1 or 2 core teachers who we rely on based on geography or particular resonance, but I enthusiastically encourage you to seek out classes and workshops with the other certified teachers of this practice!
Q. Where can I find an international list of 5Rhythms teachers?
A. 5Rhythms Global has an online search tool that allows you to search for classes and workshops with all certified 5Rhythms teachers who are also accredited members by the 5Rhythms Teacher's Association.
Q. Will you come and teach in my community?
A. Chances are the answer will be "yes"! It's my honour and delight to teach 5Rhythms in my hometown and further afield when I am invited. Please get in touch with me at layah (at) layahjane (dot) com and we can explore possibilities together.