Spring into dance!

I'm all abuzz today after seeing the theatre show Burn the Floor last night.  It was simply fantastic and mesmerising to watch the dancers and musicians bring that show to life. Every single performance reminded me of the freedom, spirit and creativity that dance brings, and also that with dedication anything is possible.

Whilst it may be Spring at last in London town with the sun peeping through the clouds, this rainy quote about life springs to mind when I need a little reminder of why I choose dance to be my favourite pastime...

Shimmy On!

Nic ♥

Shimmies for Women's Day

It was International Women's Day yesterday, and I cannot think of a better way to celebrate this occasion than to perform at a hafla (bellydance party) with the Maya-Belles troupe. Last night was an evening of sparkly, hip shaking shimmytastic fun, enjoyed by all. 

For me, haflas are a united and celebratory event for any woman who stands up for what they believe in, or aspires to feel empowered to do so; and those who selflessly make a positive difference to the lives of people around them. Here's a photo from last night - smiley happy bellydancers! 

Happy Shimmies for International Women's Day! 

Nic ♥

Harlem Shimmies

The new dance craze of 2013 appears to be the 'Harlem Shake' and in true form people from around the globe are creating their own take on this dance, regardless of how it makes them look (lol).  

Following suit, the bellydance community are not ones to miss out on this fad, so a group of dancers from Belarus in Europe, decided to funk out in the video below by mastering their own take on the Harlem Shake.  As an avid bellydancer myself, its great to see other dancers who are not ashamed to just laugh at themselves, take a risk and take part in this spontaneous dance craze.  I'm sure each of them are dedicated bellydancers following both authentic traditional and newer styles of bellydance, but it also pleases me because all too often people take this mysterious and beautiful art form way too seriously or misinterpret what its really about: empowering women to free up and celebrate their femininity and sensuality, often with a bit of humility.

Anyhow, I found this video not only brave but hilarious, so I thought I'd upload it!  Happy shimmies ♥

Time sure flies

It took forever to get home tonight from bellydance class because of the weather.  It's so pretty outside with the snow falling and hard to believe that mid-January has crept up upon us already. They say time flies when you're having fun which is definitely the case so far this year.  I'm happy that its been a busy month of getting new plans into motion for the year ahead, and changing things a little to simplify life. 

The highlight of January has definitely been that I've arranged a placement in another school for training experience working with children who have special education needs. Oh my wow - this has been emotional, rewarding and a real eye opener for me.  Things I would never have thought of have come to light, including Sensory Integration and how to address the inequalities and misconceptions surrounding SEN children.  Lots of powerful "ding" moments have been had by yours truly, and its been very heart warming too.  The notion of time flying would be viewed very differently for a child with learning disabilities. I do miss the kids in my school though, but at least now I'll be able to offer a more inclusive and thoughtful approach to teaching them when I return. 

Anyhow, children all over the UK will no doubt be happy that most schools closed early today because of the snowy weather conditions.  Time sure does fly when you're having fun in the snow :)

Happy shimmies!

Nic ♥

Its a New Year :-)

Just a quick note to wish you all a very happy New Year.  May 2013 be filled with happiness and many blessings for you and your loved ones.

I would also like to extend a big thanks for reading my blog over the past few months and the lovely feedback I've received. I'm pleased to say that so far, this blog has been read over 1,000 times by people in countries from all over the world. Wow, thank you!  My blog has been (and will continue to be) a fantastic creative outlet to pursue my love of writing, in a natural and unique way.  I hope it inspires and motivates you to also find something that ignites your own passion during 2013 and beyond!

Happy (New Year) Shimmies,

Nic ♥ ♥

Simple joys of life

Just had an amazing Christmas with the family. Way too much to eat, drink, lovely pressies to open (and give) and lots of laughing. One of the highlights was definitely seeing and hearing my 6 year old nephew go crazy showing me how to dance to "Gangnam Style" lol.  It was a great experience being in such a happy environment, but I do realise and appreciate that not everyone can say the same.  

Many people are alone at this time of year, homeless, broke, feel depressed or are sick in hospital.  With this, I extend peace and warm thoughts to anyone that feels down on their luck because of the festive season bringing about sad memories of what they do not have.  I also take my hat off to charities and selfless volunteers who work tirelessly throughout the crimbo period to help make a difference to those in need.  A beautiful quote from Oliver Twist (Charles Dickens) falls into place here: “It is because I think so much of warm and sensitive hearts, that I would spare them from being wounded.” 

It may sound sentimental, but this time of year makes me feel grateful for the simple things I often take for granted throughout the year and think its high time others, especially those who are caught up in their status and getting to the top at any cost, pause for thought and realise just how lucky they are to be where they are today.   

So, rather than focusing on what's not there, the next time I raise a glass, dance or eat a meal, I'll be giving thanks and will remain grateful for all that I have including the simple joys of life.  

Festive Shimmies,

Nic ♥

Festive Thoughts

Where has the year gone?  It’s that time again when most people are gearing up for the Christmas rush and reflecting on the ups and downs of 2012.  Whilst this time of year can bring in a sense of completion, for some it also brings in renewed hope, by making fresh plans for the New Year ahead.  

In this photo I’m feeling mesmerised and inspired, as I get ready to dance and watch another dancer's theatre performance.  With this, I now ponder deep in thought as to what the year ahead may bring to me and start to set myself goals to achieve. For me, it’s been a good year, and although its been challenging at times, there's been a lot of light bulb moments, and a strong sense of feeling that I need to do even more things to enjoy myself, like my dancing, creative writing and yoga in 2013. 

A few valuable lessons learnt from this year, are that no matter what happens, if any situation is approached with integrity, optimism and an open mind, the right result will come of it.  Either way, karma and a person’s own conscience bites if unjust has been done.  If I set my sights on something that’s worth having, if it’s truly meant to be and the effort is put in, it will come without any struggle, and if it doesn’t, its time to move on and reframe those goals, because life will still go on. 

Observing the children at my primary school helps to put things into perspective for me. Kids are naturally playful and life to them is filled with innocence and wonder.  You know when a child is sad because they tend to be upfront about it. When a child is happy its like all of their Christmases have come at once :)  As adults, we often feel the need to hold back and be responsible with our actions.  However, by just letting go, having fun like kids every now and then and learning to be upfront with our feelings, can be SO liberating!!! This, I plan to do more of right now, next year and beyond.

As I continue to be mesmerised and absorbed by my own passions, friends, family and all the special moments I’ve been lucky enough to experience this year, I have every faith in Christmas and the New Year, 2013, shaping up to be the best yet!

Happy shimmies and enjoy the festive season :)))

Nic ♥