My philosophy of teaching is not fussy, extravagant, or intense. It is simple, compassionate, and available. I believe that a dancer should be mystical in the way that they move throughout life, with a heightened sense of physical and emotional self, due to their practice of dance. I am a firm believer in the power of dance as a teacher of the most vital and basic skills to carry a person throughout the world with grace and readiness. Not everyone needs to dance to attain some sort of end goal or career; rather, one can dance for the simple pleasure it brings to come back to the body, challenge one’s limits, and disconnect from the disconnected society we live in. Therefore, dance is, and should be, for anyone and everyone.
I approach my classes with a desire to develop a student's mind-body connection and body awareness. This includes spatial and auditory awareness, awakening individuals to be more present with all of their senses. It is important for me to foster ways of thinking in others that are based in nonjudgmental and internal motivation; this way, students are more compassionate with the learning process, their own bodies, and readiness to come back to each class. I promote observational learning and listening, in order to mindfully move and breathe throughout the space. Breath is one of the most important tools we have to stay grounded and aware of the present, as it provides a meditation-like trance that makes movement so addicting. |
Influences in my class include: Gaga, ballet, Pilates, yoga, release technique, and floorwork