Dance facilitates the physical expression of internal emotions while improving well-being and fostering social connections in times of crisis. Attendees will be equipped to lead a movement class for individuals of all ages and abilities.
The arts play a critical role in times of crisis by bringing people together to reflect, heal, and process grief and trauma. Research has proven the physical and mental health benefits of dance, including improving cardiovascular function, releasing endorphins, and increasing self-esteem – to just name a few (American Public Health Association 2024), yet there is a growing body of research that proves the effectiveness of movement and dance in crisis settings (Trauma Research Foundation 2023). When people are unable to verbally articulate their internal emotions, dance offers an outlet for them to express their innermost feelings when words fall short. As described by Ruth St. Denis, a modern dance pioneer in the early twentieth century, “I see dance being used as communication between body and soul, to express what is too deep to find for words.” In other words, dance can be utilized to facilitate the physical expression of internal emotions while improving overall well-being and fostering social connections with others in times of crisis.
In this session, attendees will participate in an entry-level creative movement class designed for children and adults of all ages and abilities. Additionally, attendees will learn a variety of movement strategies and exercises, including a simple warm-up, movement dialogues, and movement journeys – all of which will equip participants with the knowledge, tools, and resources needed to replicate the class in their own communities during times of crisis.
Unlike traditional dance classes, participants will not learn choreography or specific dance techniques, such as ballet, jazz, or ballroom dance. Instead, attendees will follow a series of guided prompts designed to help find ways to express emotions in a safe, nurturing environment while creating a sense of community with fellow participants. The session will also explore ways to modify the class for variety of settings, such as school gymnasiums, grassy areas in a park, conference rooms, and even a church basement. No previous dance experience is necessary.
