Why is partnering important to Shapeshifing and how do I do it?
One of the most powerful experiences in ShapeShifting is when you partner with another person. Partnering in ShapeShifting is not at all the same as partnering in traditional dance.
Partnering in traditional dance usually means that one person is moved or lifted or lead by another person. There is, of course, always a giving of energy back and forth between the two bodies but there is generally one person directing the movement no matter how subtle that may be. Also, most partnering uses the grasp of the hands to move the other body. This is generally because the movement being done is choreographed and not spontaneous.
ShapeShifting on the other hand, because it is spontaneous movement and driven by the energy flowing in, through, and around our bodies, does not use hands to partner nor does it ask either body to execute or lead the movement. Spontaneous movement asks both bodies to exchange their energy with one another. In doing so, a third combined flow of energy shared by both bodies directs the movement of both bodies simultaneously. There is no leader or follower; there is only a single flow of energy moving both bodies.
How can this be achieved? Our bodies are like semi-permeable membranes that allow energy to flow back and forth through them. One way to start this flow is for each of you to put one of your hands in front of your face with the palm facing you. Move the backs of your hands together slowly so that they gently touch each other. Now just stand still either looking at one another or with eyes closed and sense the energy from the hand. This may feel uncomfortable or awkward at first but just stay focused on what you are sensing from the other hand. Feel yourself surrendering to that energy coming from the other body. You can make contact at any points on your bodies and do everything suggested here.
Move only when you feel a combined energy pushing or pulling you both in some direction. Maintain your contact with the other hand in such a way as to almost feel an energy cushion between your hands. The energy is both a glue and cushion that keeps you together. Continue to resist the urge to push or pull the other hand in any way; allow the third energy stream that your two bodies have created together to take you where it will. Always feel surrender; always trust.
At first, your common movement may be very slow and cautious. That is fine. Just trust your body to lead your mind. Or better yet, let go of your conscious mind. Let your preconscious mind open you up to your body’s senses and allow your body’s senses to open you up to your preconscious mind. Trust the energy that leads you both even as you trust one another. The more you do this practice with others, the more fluid and efficient your movement will become and you will be able to move together in ways that you never dreamed that two bodies could move.
Partnering is one of the best ways to experience the power of ShapeShifting to allow your body to tell its story while being part of another body’s story. There is a kind of communication between bodies that cannot be experienced in any other way. It allows both participants to experience the power of expression which is healing and the power of meditation which enables clarity and focus in your life.