Quarantine, social distancing, shelter in place, self-isolating. Whatever you might be using to describe it, it's certainly dragging on at this point. While of course we want to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities at large, this extended stay at home can't help but bring up uncomfortable and anxious emotions. If you're feeling like me, you're starting to feel pretty trapped and stir crazy at home. But one thing that always helps me: movement.
Moving my body to music, moving my body to break a sweat, moving my body to get out of my head, moving my body to free my spirit. Even if physically I have to remain in the same place, movement helps transport me. Movement helps me cut back on the intensity of the cabin fever, focus my concentration, and generally pass the time. Thus for this month, I've compiled a list of resources you might consider engaging with if you are looking for something new in the dance and fitness arena to try at home.
- Studio Azul: a local Seattle studio, Studio Azul offers dance and fitness classes on both live classes on Facebook and on demand on Vimeo. Classes range from salsa and bachata technique, to barre and the sassy 305 Fit. There are a number of different commitment levels, including "drop-in" if you just want to try out one class. You can find the options here.
- Carbon38: online retailer Carbon38 offers two to three free daily workouts live on Instagram. Look for the daily post for the day's schedule.
- Aziza: One of my all-time favorite dancers, Aziza, regularly offers online belly dance classes. She also offers one-on-one virtual feedback and coaching over Zoom. You can schedule both at azizaonline.appointy.com. Use the promo code MAY FLOWERS to get a 15% discount on private coaching.
- Datura Online: the jack pot of on demand belly dance videos, Datura Online, offers either monthly membership options, or pay to rent options, to access videos by belly dance favorites such as Zoe Jakes, Rachel Brice, Sadie, and Sedona Soulfire.
- Studio Tone It Up: the expansive fitness app from the Tone It Up girls, Katrina and Karena. The app includes fitness videos ranging from toning to yoga to HIIT to dance cardio, and even meditation. The app is free for the first seven days, and right now there are specials for 50% off an annual subscription and 25% off a monthly subscription.
- Alo Yoga: another athletic wear retailer, Alo Yoga, offers online videos from popular instructors ranging from yoga to fitness to mindfulness. The first 14 days are free.
- Mind Body Online: The ultimate virtual movement platform, you can use Mind Body Online to find all types of virtual classes, including dance, fitness, wellness, and beauty. Offered at all different times and all different price points. Just might be something for everyone.
I hope within the ideas above you find something that brightens your day and brings a little joy to your heart. Stay safe. Stay sane. It's an incredibly difficult time, and we are each in our boat of mounting struggles, but I wish everyone well, and remember, that this too shall pass.
