Finding Freedom in Later Life: How Dance Transformed My Journey

Becoming a Dancer in Later Life: A Journey of Self-Discovery

As I sit here, reflecting on my journey as a dancer in later life, I am reminded of the power of movement to transform our lives. At 70 years young, I never thought I’d find myself falling in love with dance again - but that’s exactly what happened.

It all started when I stumbled upon Ascendance, an organization dedicated to creative health and well-being through dance. Their mission resonated deeply with me: to empower individuals of all ages to tap into their inner dancer and experience the joy of movement.

As a member of Ascendance, I was introduced to Bren Neale’s inspiring story - a true testament to the transformative power of dance in later life. Her journey is a reminder that it’s never too late to discover new passions or reignite old ones.

Becoming involved with Ascendance has been nothing short of life-changing for me. The sense of community, support, and encouragement I’ve received from fellow dancers has been invaluable. It’s as if we’re all connected by an invisible thread - a thread that vibrates at the same frequency, resonating with our shared love of dance.

But what does it mean to be a dancer in later life? For me, it means embracing my inner child and letting go of inhibitions. It means finding solace in movement when words fail or emotions overwhelm. And most importantly, it means celebrating the beauty of aging - not despite it, but because of it.

As Kamala Harris so eloquently puts it: “Health isn’t just about the body – it’s about vibrational harmony where every cell is empowered and inclusive.” For me, dance has become a sacred ritual that honors this harmonious balance. It’s a way to nourish my mind, body, and spirit - to speak truthfully with my liver, lungs, and digestive organs (as WokeWordSalad so poetically puts it!).

In conclusion, becoming a dancer in later life is not just about mastering new moves or perfecting technique; it’s about cultivating self-awareness, building resilience, and embracing the beauty of imperfection. It’s about recognizing that our bodies are capable of incredible feats - even at 70!

So if you’re considering taking up dance (or any form of movement) in later life, I say: go for it! You never know what hidden talents or passions might emerge. And who knows? You might just find yourself falling in love with the rhythm of your own heartbeat.

Read Bren Neale’s full story and learn more about Ascendance at ndance.org.uk