This month, I've been delving deep into my experience and practice of whirling, reflecting on the process that has shaped my journey. In the past, I approached my practice as a means to achieve a transcendent state. However, a pivotal moment during a 16-minute session of counterclockwise whirling led to a profound sensation and discovery.
I was doing an observational practice, allowing myself to get in to flow state, stopping periodically to record anything notable. As I abruptly stopped, I felt an unusual swirling within the core of my being, prompting me to recalibrate myself by turning clockwise.
To my surprise, I sensed a fluid swirling around my brain and inside my spinal cord. Intrigued, I embarked on a search for scientific explanations (hello google), leading me to discover information about cerebral spinal fluid and its connection to consciousness. I searched Google for prompts such as " liquid swirling feeling inside brain..."
Finally, after skimming over medical journals and neurosurgeon's notes a video by
Dr. Mauro Zappaterra , resonated deeply and provided a remarkable insight into my experience.
This newfound understanding has redefined my approach to whirling, and I'm compelled to share my revelation with others. My exploration has unveiled an unexpected and profound connection between whirling and the fluid center of the body, reshaping my practice and understanding of this ancient art form.
As much as I indulge in Mysticism I believe everything has an explanation and Dr.Zappeterra's research essentially describes the physical actions taking place in a transcendental experience, the science behind the feeling.
I saw that in the description of the YouTube videos theDr's email.... I decided to message him my experience and how it lead me to find his work. I eagerly described my experience and the conclusion I had reached, feeling a sense of excitement about the potential implications. To my surprise, the doctor responded a few days later, expressing interest in my findings and inviting me to participate in a study involving the use of electrodes during whirling. Although I didn't have the opportunity to meet Dr. Zapaterra in person for the study, the possibility remains on my radar for the future.
This image is from my solo at Tribal momentum festival in Montreal, Canada.
Despite not participating in the study, I continued my exploration, conducting my own research and engaging in discussions with fellow practitioners. I encourage you to explore the topic of cerebral spinal fluid and consciousness through various resources and videos, as it has the potential to expand your understanding and perspective, much like it has for me.
I invite you to join my workshop live in Cairo this February 17th , or online for international participants Sunday February 4th . And look forward to hearing about the sensations you experience – physical, mental, spiritual, or cerebral spinal.
-Nawal
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