Just a few days ago, I returned from 10 of the most beautiful days at Woodford Folk Festival, where I volunteered in the build of this iconic festival & immersed myself in the magic of the event itself, my first ever. I then had the absolute privelage of bringing in the New Year surrounded by the most kind-hearted, talented, and joyful community of people.

Woodford isn’t just your average festival; it’s a celebration of what life can be, creative, & joyous. From the vibrant, eclectic range of music (none of which I’d ever heard, which was refreshing in and of itself) to the laughter-filled workshops, and yes, the endless opportunities to dance, every moment felt like a reminder of how much beauty there is in simply being alive.

One of my favourite parts of Woodford was witnessing people from all walks of life moving to the beat of drums, guitars, violins & instruments all all kinds. Whether it was diving head first into the 0530 Yoga Classes, Breathwork & Kundalini Sessions or seeing in the late night sessions it wasn’t about how “good” anyone was at dancing, how they dressed or what level they were at with their own practice (some most likely experiencing these moments for the first time) it was all about showing up, being present, letting go, and feeling truly free.

As I moved my body under the open sky (and through serious amounts of humidity & sweat) I was struck especially by how transformative dance can be not just for the soul, but for the mind and body too.

Don’t get me wrong, I love a boogie as much as the next person & have danced plenty in my life, for hours on end, but I felt a deeper connection to my own spirit here than i’ve ever in the past. It makes me smile just writing this out on paper!

This experience inspired me to share the benefits of dancing below, as I have done on my socials, and how this simple, powerful tool can be used for personal growth & holistic well-being.

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1. Dance as a Tool for Letting Go

Dancing at Woodford reminded me that movement is a language of release. In those moments when your body moves to the rhythm (Or a 5 Rhythms workshop in my case for 5 days straight), you’re no longer holding onto the worries of yesterday or the uncertainties of tomorrow, you’re fully present & just letting the energy flow through you.

For me, moving to the music alongside strangers-turned-friends became an act of trust. It’s like telling the universe: I’m here, I’m open, I’m free, come at me!

Whether you’re dancing under festival lights, in your living room, or at a class, moving your body is a beautiful way to let go of what no longer serves you and make space for joy.

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2. Strengthen Your Connection to Others

One of the most magical parts of Woodford was how dance, music & community connection brings people together. Complete strangers would grab hands, laugh, and move as if they’d known each other forever.

Dance & movement transcends words; it’s a universal connection that reminds us we’re part of something bigger. If you’re ever feeling isolated or disconnected, putting on music and dancing with others; whether in a class or at a festival, can reignite your sense of belonging, I promise you.

At Woodford, I learned that community doesn’t have to be complicated. It can simply be about showing up and sharing joy in the simplest of ways, like dancing together under the stars, trying out some acro yoga and then just going along your merry way with your spirits lifted.

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3. Move Through Life with Freedom

Dancing is also a celebration of freedom, freedom from rules, expectations, and self-criticism. It teaches us to be imperfectly perfect, to embrace spontaneity, and to enjoy the moment just as it is.

I have always embraced this in my own life but not so much when it came to dancing, so it’s even something that I have learnt over the last few years to go head first in.

As a result, this is something I try to instill in my coaching clients: life is meant to be danced through, not tiptoed around.

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4. Dance as a Practice for Self-Care

After the New Year’s countdown at Woodford, I spent some quiet time reflecting on 2024 and all the incredible moments it held. One thing I realised is how much better I feel; physically, mentally, and emotionally, when I allow myself time to move.

Dancing isn’t just about fitness (though it’s great for that, too); it’s about caring for your soul. It’s about giving yourself permission to feel good mentally, to express yourself physically, and to release whatever’s weighing you down emotionally.

For me, dance has become a cornerstone of my own self-care and something I endeavour to do on a regular basis, a practice I turn to when I need to reconnect with myself, recharge, or simply remember how good it feels to be alive.

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5. Set Your Life to Music

As we move into 2025, I’ve been reflecting on the power of intention. Last year, my goal was to take action on anything and everything I wanted to do, and Woodford was one of those dreams I made a reality.

Dancing into the New Year at a festival surrounded by community, music, and gratitude made me realise how much magic exists when we align ourselves with joy.

If you’re looking for a simple yet transformative way to bring more joy, movement, and connection into your life, I encourage you to start with dance. It doesn’t have to be at a festival (though I highly recommend the experience!); it can be as simple as turning on your favorite song at home and letting your body move however it wants to.

And from there, take action, just make it happen!

It is so much easier than you think.

I volunteered my time at Woodford in exchange for a FREE Ticket so my expenses were drastically reduced, I saved $$ but what I gained in return you couldn’t put a price on.

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Let’s Move Through 2025 Together

Dance has the power to heal, connect, and uplift and it’s just one of the many tools I incorporate into my coaching practice to help clients live more vibrant, balanced lives.

If you’re ready to explore how movement, mindfulness, and intention can transform your year, I’d love to support you.

Click here to book your free consultation, and let’s make 2025 the year you move into your power.