9128 Educators providing Dance courses delivered Online

The Dance Zone

the dance zone

Berkshire,

Becky Hi, I’m Becky, the Principal here at The Dance Zone. I began dancing at the age of 4, learning Freestyle, Ballroom and Latin American. At the age of 14 I became a Student Teacher and fell in love with teaching. I enjoy studying the theory side of dance and went on to take the Associate Teacher qualification in both Ballroom and Latin American with the IDTA; and Ballroom with the ISTD. I now have the pleasure of passing this knowledge on to any of our student teachers who wish to train to become qualified dance teachers and fulfil their own dance dreams. Quite some time ago, I discovered a love of authentic Street dance and still enjoy attending classes in this discipline. Over the years I have achieved qualifications to teach Zumba, Zumba Toning and Mash It Up Fitness, all great and fun exercise programs. I have had the pleasure of partnering students at competitions in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom, something I will never forget. I do not have a favourite style, I just love to dance; even my holiday every year is at a dance convention! Yes, dance is my passion, but it’s more than that, it’s who I am. Amy Amy Hi, I’m Amy, and I’ve been dancing at The Dance Zone since it opened in 2011 but have been dancing for 13 years. I have been a student teacher since 2017, I also take lessons in Tap dancing elsewhere. I have loved growing up and spending time with the other amazing student teachers and getting to know all the kids. Going to dance just provides me with a good opportunity to have fun and learn something new at the same time. Beth Beth Hi, I’m Beth, and I have been dancing since I was 3 years old. I started off doing ballet then moved to The Dance Zone at the age of 6. Dance was always something that I have loved so it’s amazing I have been able to continue dancing my whole life. I competed in several competition as part of a Street dance crew. I have taught dance since I was 12, I love being able to share my passion with the kids and being able to teach and dance with them. It’s rewarding to see the kids perform knowing that you helped to lead and encourage them. My favourite style of dance is street as it’s fun and allows for you to add your own style to routines. I have grown up with The Dance Zone and had the opportunity to be taught by and dance with amazing people and have amazing memories.

Neuroscience of Dance

neuroscience of dance

This project is the vessel through which I teach about the brain mechanisms of dance in a fun, engaging manner so that everyone can access and get the maximum benefits from dancing. Oftentimes, the focus in dance science and dance education is turned to the body, leaving behind it's connection to the mind and brain. Understanding the brain mechanisms in dance can improve performance, make classes more inclusive, prevent injury and optimize both learning and teaching. In the workshops I provide the theory in a dynamic fashion, always applying it to practice promoting embodied cognition and equipping dancers with easy-to-apply techniques. In a fast-paced world where we are often disconnected from ourselves, my focus is to use the body as a tool of learning and give the what and the how in a practical and interesting way. Part of the workshops is dedicated to initiating conversation and exchange insights. Experiencing and sharing experiences leads to greater knowledge that includes subjective and objective aspects of knowing. My approach is based on scientific evidence-based knowledge, my background in dance (performing, teaching), coaching, and mental health experience. By being embedded in academia and being an active student, I keep up-to-date with the most recent information in a constantly changing neuroscientific field. From this project, I have developed my own evidence-based method called Dance Integrated Healing which enhances all the healing properties of dance. The Dance Integrated Healing method is now being employed by the Dutch Mental Health Association. https://www.facebook.com/DanceIntegratedHealing