Dance is the Joy of Movement and the Heart of Life: Circle Dancing Joy
On the Saturday evening during a yoga retreat, we gathered together for circle dancing taught by two local teachers. Whether it was the large dinner, the unseasonably hot evening or the glass of vino, the session didn’t go quite as well as hoped. I felt that people didn’t really understand the real essence of circle dance. Having danced for over 40 years and still attending a weekly class, I thought I would try and explain a little more clearly what it’s about.
Apart from gentle exercise it is lovely because you don’t need a partner and anyone of any age or ability can circle dance. Dancing in a circle is an ancient tradition in many cultures. Dances can mark special occasions, festivals and the changing seasons. It strengthens community and encourages harmony and peace. The dances can be lively and energetic or gentle and reflective. The dances reflect the mood of the group and the interests of the teacher just as a Yoga session will do.
It is rare to enjoy all the dances or all the music. My teacher, Barbara, will occasionally introduce a jazzy dance or a Bossa Nova with cucarachas which I don’t particularly like, but others really love. I like the more traditional dances of Greece, France, Israel and the Balkans. In our class, when it’s our birthday, we are given the opportunity to choose a few of our favourite dances that Barbara includes in the next session.
Circle dancing, I feel, compliments Yoga. Working with the group energy, we create a sacred space and build the light that we always send out at the end to those near and far, wherever it is needed, and the light is needed very much in these challenging times. I hope that if you feel circle dancing is for you that you will go along to a class where you find a friendly welcome and lots of support, we were all beginners once. If you have difficulty finding a class do email me with the area where you live and I will try, if possible to put you in touch with a class nearby.
Pauline Newton Webb, YHET Member