Celebrating Culture Through Movement

This month, our yoga and dance classes embraced the celebration of diverse cultures, honoring Hispanic Heritage Month, the festival of Diwali, and Halloween. Dance, as a universal language, served as a bridge connecting traditions, fostering understanding, and promoting inclusivity in a joyous way. Through music and movement, children had the opportunity to bring stories and teachings to life, embodying the narratives and movements associated with each celebration.

In dance, students explored simple salsa movements tailored to their abilities and ages. Beyond being a fun introduction to this dynamic dance style, salsa reinforced foundational concepts of rhythm and step. To celebrate Diwali, we introduced "Bhangra" dancing, a lively and energetic dance form from Indian culture. The melodies and costumes associated with Bhangra inspired unique movements, allowing students to connect with the festive spirit of Diwali. For Halloween, we continued our exploration of basic hip-hop movements, dancing to the always-popular Ghostbusters theme song.

In yoga, the celebration of Diwali offered a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the theme of light and kindness. As the seasons shifted and we adjusted to shorter days, students considered their own inner light and how to shine it through acts of kindness. We also explored the changes in trees and seasons, using balance poses and new games to deepen our awareness and skills.

Both dance and yoga foster self-expression and confidence. Dance allows children to explore their individuality, encouraging self-awareness and building self-esteem as they grow more comfortable with their bodies and movements. Similarly, yoga nurtures creativity and mindfulness, helping children express themselves in new ways while enhancing their problem-solving and innovative thinking skills.

As the seasons change, we look forward to staying warm and continuing to grow together this winter.

Namaste,
Ms. Ellen