Biodanza is a form of creative expressive dance that uses music and movement to re-awaken our capacity for joy, playfulness and meaningful connection. It also helps us find new vitality in life and is both fun and deeply relaxing. In the words of Rolando Toro, who founded it 40 years ago, "Biodanza is an education in life".

I fully qualified in September 2010, and run a regular weekly class at the Pearce Institute in Govan, Glasgow (Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm). At the end of 2010/early 2011, I run 2 series of after school clubs with primary 1s to 7s in local schools. Working with children was fun and challenging. I hope to find a context which will allow me to deepen this work in the future.

Here's a quote that summarizes Biodanza beautifully: “Biodanza is an expressive arts system that incorporates music, movement and authentic relationships with self, others, and the world to support health, joy and being fully alive. Based on anthropological studies of dance and traditional rituals of the celebration of life, Biodanza stimulates community, awakens consciousness, helps participants to recover their joy and vitality, and celebrates the sacredness of life.” (extract from http://www.biodanza.us)

Biodanza was created by Rolando Toro, a Chilean anthropologist, poet and lover of music & dance. It is now present all over the world and is governed by the International Biocentric Foundation (IBF) based in Italy. Biodanza teachers work with a variety of groups all over the world, including professionals in organisations, children & young people, people with special needs, elderly people etc.

If you want to know more about it, I recommend this well-designed website: www.biodanza.us. Different teachers practice (and therefore represent) Biodanza in very different ways. Biodanza is one of these 'things' that are difficult to describe - experiencing it is by far the best way to find out about it.

If you are in Glasgow you’ve got the choice of 2 evening classes: one run by my colleague and friend Richard Golsworthy on Monday evening at 72 Berkeley Street, Charing Cross. The other is mine and runs on Wednesdays as mentioned above. Dates vary according to term times so please send us an email before turning up. Both classes are £8 (£6 conc). If you’d like to be put on our mailing list, please send us an email:mail[at]verenenicolas.org or golsworthy[at]mac.com .

If you are in Edinburgh or surroundings, please check Claire Lewis’ website for detailed information.