Weaving the Threads of Breath - Kerala, India

Join us as we explore the profound intersection of African traditional wisdom and ancient Indian practices, weaving together the rich cultural tapestries of two continents. Through conscious breathing, rooted in both African and Indian traditions, we will connect with the vital life force that grounds us in the present and links us to our ancestors. This experience will be deepened through creative embodied processes, where movement becomes a vessel for storytelling, spiritual expression, and honoring the past.

Set in the lush surroundings of Kerala, our journey will be anchored in the historic city of Kochi, a vibrant hub of cultural exchange. Here, we will immerse ourselves in the rich heritage of the region, with a visit to the Kerala Kathakali Centre, where the ancient dance-drama of Kathakali will come to life. This art form, with its elaborate costumes and expressive gestures, offers a window into the spiritual and mythological world of Indian classical performance.

In addition, we will experience the Theyyam performance, a powerful dance that resonates with themes of transformation and renewal, drawing on the shared

spiritual philosophies of Africa and India. Together, we will breathe, move, and celebrate these interconnected cultural experiences, creating a space where the wisdom of both continents meets and uplifts the human spirit.

The Kerala Kathakali Centre

The Kerala Kathakali Centre, located in Kochi, is one of the most respected cultural institutions in Kerala, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the state's classical arts. Established in 1990, it has become a prominent venue for experiencing the rich traditions of Kerala, particularly the mesmerizing dance drama of Kathakali. Known for its authenticity, the Centre offers daily performances where audiences can witness the intricate makeup, vibrant costumes, and expressive gestures that define Kathakali, bringing ancient myths and epics to life. The Centre also hosts performances of other traditional arts, such as Kalaripayattu, an ancient martial art, and classical Kerala music, making it a vital cultural hub for those seeking to immerse themselves in the artistic heritage of Kerala.

Facilitators

Dr Ela Manga is an integrative medical doctor committed to healing and bringing heart back into the art of medicine. Her medical training was a step towards her true vocation as a facilitator of health and a catalyst for change. She is the founder of Breathwork Africa, an organisation that offers internationally recognised breathwork practitioner training based on the Pneumanity™ philosophy.

Dr Sara Matchett is a certified Breathwork Practitioner, Lead Teacher of Fitzmaurice Voicework®, a Performance-Maker, and Associate Professor at UCT’s Centre for Theatre, Dance & Performance Studies. Her interests are in embodied practices that focus on presencing, co-sensing, collaborating and co-generating as a way of transforming ‘egosystems’ to ‘ecosystems’. Her practice is premised on the understanding that all living beings, both human and other-than-human, are connected by breath.

Cost:

From R22,500 / USD 1,250 per person

(Includes accommodation, workshops, and cultural events; excludes travel)

Contact Information:

For more details and bookings, contact us at marj@breathworkafrica.co.za

Download Brochure