 Does the look on this child's face make you break out in a smile? It sure did for me. What I notice is how often I witness this exhuberant joy in children but not as often do I see it in adults. It leaves me wondering why? I do have the joy of experiencing this kind of enthusiasm for life when I teach dance and I think it is because the women that come to class have the opportunity to forget, for just a little while, all the stresses and responsibilities of life. In the safe environment of the studio, for just a short time, it doesn't matter who they are in day to day life, what "hats" are worn, whether they are thin, chubby, tall, short, had a bad hair day, can't make the contacts go in,...none of it matters, none of it is noticed. (While I hear others say that this is rarely seen these days, I'm blessed to be surrounded at these classes by the least judgemental and most supportive women that I have ever met) In that "freedom" I am witness to these ladies playfully enjoying the camaraderie of each other as they experience and express their creativity together (oh yes, and have the fitness benefits too.) I do get to see smiles like these and it is a blessing.  In the pure joy of others, be they children or adults, the surrounding energy is uplifting. It feels great to be around happy people. But why do you think it is seen less often in adults?
In a society where it seems that to "be too busy" is worn as a badge of honour, or where one needs to feel overwhelmed, burned out and totally stressed in order to fit in and relate to others, are we forgetting the benefits of adding Joy to life? Of taking time to play? and if so, why? The healing benefits of laughter and joy can not be underestimated. The feel good chemicals and endorphins released in the body are essential to good health of body, mind and spirit. My great-nephew often asks me why I laugh so much, I ask him "why not?" It does not take a lot of effort to choose joy. It may take some time to explore and discover what brings you joy at this stage in your life, but the adventure and exploration can be joyful in itself AND it is worth the time it takes. I'm told that when I dance or teach dance, I glow. I haven't noticed that aspect of it but what I do notice is that the rest of my world goes away for a while and I can lose myself in the joy of the music, the movement and the time I am spending with others. When teaching and I happen to notice that smile, or sparkle of joy in the eye of a student, I know that I do glow on the inside...it warms my heart to see another person in that moment of joy. Here is an opportunity to experience some pure JOY! In a one hour playshop we will put on some inspiring music and just move! I'll share some very basic and easy belly dance moves that we can playfully put into combinations. We will bump our hips, twirl with veils and most importantly enjoy the experience of moving in a safe and fun environment. YOU will play at the speed and level of movement that works for YOUR body. This playshop is for every woman regardless of size, age or fitness level! No dance experience is required. I can guarantee that this one hour of play will bring a smile to your lips! Playshop size is limited so please register early. Wear comfortable clothing, bring some water and even the smallest desire or motivation to have some fun. Saturday, August 23rd 10:00 to 11:00am and/or Wednesday, Sept. 3rd 6 to 7 Cost: $5.00
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Teresa Graham,
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