Joged Amerta is described as a body movement meditation practice originated in Surakarta, Central Java, by the artist and philosopher Suprapto Suryodarmo. This practice synthesized his interest in philosophy, archaeology, meditation, traditions, rituals, and multiculturalism, amongst other things. Over time, this turned into methodologies of practice and teaching that he called Joged Amerta for his own movement, also known as Amerta Movement in his work with other people. Within the practice, dialoguers, messengers or movers (as Pak Prapto used to refer to them), notice how bodies (movers and material environment) start to develop a form of communication between each other: with affect as a way to interact and perceive the surroundings.

Beyond responding to space and surroundings, a dancer practicing Joged Amerta must also become aware of and liberate the body from all forms of attachment. With its fluid, unstructured movements, Joged Amerta emphasizes the process over the outcome—its value is not measured by the number of spectators. Ultimately, it manifests as living awareness in motion, guiding practitioners to rediscover themselves and cultivate sensitivity. 

Suprapto Suryodarmo was the initiator of the Joged Amerta. His approach emphasised the depth required of a dancer, beginning with self-awareness, awareness of nature and the environment, and a reflective attitude toward movement. From childhood, he was familiar with movement forms, ranging from classical Javanese dance and silat to kung fu. He later studied Vipassana Buddhist meditation and the Javanese Sumarah teachings, which he found invaluable in exploring nature and consciousness. (Suryodarmo, n.d.) 

I present five poems as my tribute to him. I wrote these five poems in different places and times, whenever I was remembering or thinking about him.

Amerta Movement offers a holistic approach that enables women to reclaim their bodies, emotions, and identities from societal constraints. This article explores the synergy between Amerta Movement and women’s empowerment, emphasizing it psychological significance and transformative potential.

In its practice, Amerta Movement also fosters self-awareness of natural elements such as earth, fire, wind, water, and metal. Additionally, when combined with prayer or mantra, a spiritual atmosphere emerges that makes humans aware of their connection with the Creator.