The Healing Power of Dance: Reclaiming Our Connection

Dance is at the core of so many social gatherings, interactions, and cultures. It's a mating ritual, a somatic release, a way to communicate, and a method to celebrate. When we come together to dance, we remember that we are part of something greater than ourselves. In these moments, we set aside our differences and unite through our shared appreciation of music. Dance allows us to express ourselves freely and step into our power, fostering collaboration instead of competition.

However, over the years, our dance has been attacked by systems of oppression that thrive on our weakness, fear, and stored trauma. These systems seek to control us by shutting us down, making us easier to dominate. This pattern is not new. History shows that when there is an intent to colonize a community, one of the first cultural practices targeted is dance. For instance, the church sought to suppress Acadian dance as part of a broader effort to assimilate and control. Similarly, Canadian government policies aimed at the Mi'kmaq people included the suppression of traditional dances. This pattern extends even into academia, where the arts often become a battleground of competition, comparison, and judgment, overshadowing their original purpose of expression and passion.

Yet, dance remains a powerful form of resistance and reclamation. When we step onto the dance floor, we reclaim our right to express, connect, and exist. We assert our pleasure and play, resisting the guilt that often accompanies our enjoyment and relaxation. Personally, ecstatic dance helps me overcome these feelings and simply revel in the joy of being silly and free. It reminds me that dance is not just a physical activity but a profound way to heal, connect, and celebrate our shared humanity.

The transformative power of dance lies in its ability to unite us. When we dance together, we heal not only ourselves but also the collective spirit. We break down barriers and foster a sense of unity that transcends everyday conflicts and differences. In these moments of shared rhythm and movement, we experience a profound connection to each other and to the larger whole, reaffirming our place in the world and our capacity for joy and resilience.

So, let us embrace the healing power of dance. Let us remember its role in connecting us to ourselves and to one another, and let us use it as a tool for personal and collective healing. In reclaiming our dance, we reclaim our power and our joy, creating a world where we can truly celebrate our shared humanity.