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Arts & crafts

Finding joy in the journey – my experience of trying dance classes

16 May 2022 | Written by By Janice Nicholls

How did I connect with The Joy Club? 

It just happened. Like so many unexpected events where life takes you into a new season and a life-changing journey.

My parents passed away. I was their full-time carer. It was demanding and difficult, but also rich and rewarding. They were my life, my joy. 

I miss them every day and have been wondering how I can move on from the grief to feel happy and alive. Their loss feels tangible. I miss their presence, their friendship; I miss the connection. 

I need connection.

The Joy Club has become the pathway to finding joy in my journey. The scope and richness of what is offered is motivating and inspiring. I have found my happy place in a community of like-minded people. 

I have found connection. 

I signed up for a number of classes and was intrigued to learn what Solo Dancing with Tracie was all about. Have you ever danced before? Perhaps like me, you thought it would be easy; it’s just following a routine, right? 

Come with me into the joy of Solo Dancing.

I immediately warmed to Tracie, who reassured me and told me to have fun. All through the class she checks in with everyone and gives encouragement every dance-step of the way, and always with a smile. 

Tracie creates a relaxed, fun atmosphere and demonstrates each move slowly and clearly, with an air of ease and beauty. As she dances I find myself mesmerised by her graceful moves, the flow of her body to the music, the shape and structure of the dance; moving, twirling, gliding that allows my body, and mind, to feel free. Her passion and expertise invites me into the dance, which is exhilarating, enjoyable and exciting. 

I imagine, as I dance, that I am a dancer. After that first session, I eagerly signed up for more classes. 

As Tracie steps into the rhythm of the dance, I too smile as I recognise that Solo Dancing is one of life’s simple pleasures that has the energy to build confidence, to transform, and to help me feel alive to all that is possible.

As I reflect, a realisation comes to my mind as it drifts to my parents. Two teenagers, who met by chance, at a dance club, and whose lives were about to be changed forever. In my mind’s eye I see them dancing together – the Waltz, the Cha Cha Cha, the Jive – and all the while slowly falling in love. 

They always wanted me to look after myself, to be happy and healthy.  It was their wish then, and now. I see them smiling down on me as I experience the power and grace of Solo Dancing.

Being part of Tracie’s class, with her expertise, kindness and grace, has opened up precious self-care, allowing my body and mind to heal, to look after myself and allow my life to be in flow once more. 

I have found my connection. I have found my joy.

And you will too. 

 

If you’ve been tempted to give Tracie’s dance classes a try, find out more and book your place at one of her upcoming sessions here


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