Imagine a place where the rhythmic beats of dance and the serene stillness of yoga intertwine, creating a tapestry of wellness and self-expression. Welcome to Bridge City, where the dance and yoga scene is thriving, unlocking a world of physical, mental, and social benefits for its residents.
Discovering the Rhythm of Vitality
As I stroll through the bustling streets of Bridge City, I can’t help but notice the energy that emanates from the various dance and yoga studios. It’s as if the very ground beneath my feet is pulsing with the vibrant spirit of movement. And at the heart of this scene is Vitality in Motion, a local powerhouse that is transforming the lives of the city’s older adults.
Vitality in Motion was founded by Vanessa Woods, a former professional ballerina who recognized the profound impact that dance could have on the well-being of seniors. “I was starting to teach my young students and I wanted to find a way to really make a difference for a wider audience,” Vanessa recalls. “I was collaborating with my mom, who is a certified occupational therapist, on how we could try to get older adults to benefit from dancing.”
Vanessa’s vision has come to life in the form of inclusive, adaptable dance and yoga classes that cater to seniors of all abilities. “We always hear about how this improves posture and awareness of posture,” she explains. “We also think about how it improves our balance and our fall prevention because we know those are two really important things for older adults.”
The Transformative Power of Movement
As I delve deeper into the world of Vitality in Motion, I’m struck by the remarkable stories of transformation that unfold within its walls. Take Dot Burner, for instance, a 93-year-old Shawnee Hills community member who has been taking the bi-weekly ballet classes for over a year. “My posture is better than it was when I started with this class,” Dot shares, her eyes twinkling with a newfound vitality. “It does not hurt. It makes you happy. It is relaxing, and the music is good.”
Dot’s experience is echoed by fellow Vitality in Motion regular, Mary Morrissey, 77. “I feel wonderful,” Mary exclaims. “Maybe a little tired, but I feel really good. I had issues with my arm and back, and everything, so I think it’s helped me a lot.”
The physical benefits of these dance and yoga classes are undeniable, but the impact extends far beyond the realm of physical health. Studies have shown that mind-body exercises, particularly tai chi and dance, can improve global cognition, cognitive flexibility, working memory, verbal fluency, and learning in older adults. And the social aspect of these classes provides an invaluable sense of community and camaraderie.
“No one’s perfect,” Mary says with a warm smile. “It’s just fun to be with each other and do something together.”
Empowering Dancers, Empowering Lives
Vitality in Motion isn’t just transforming the lives of its participants; it’s also providing meaningful employment opportunities for local dancers. Vanessa, a former professional dancer herself, understands the challenges that come with sustaining a career in the arts.
“During my professional dance career, my colleagues and I often had to work a second or third job to support ourselves,” Vanessa explains. “Vitality In Motion helps support dancers by providing teaching opportunities that fall during off-peak hours where it might otherwise be difficult to find work that doesn’t conflict with their rehearsal or studio jobs.”
One such dancer is Beret Holaday, a Kansas City-based performer with Störling Dance Theater. “I do my rehearsing in the morning and then I’m able to go and teach these classes,” Beret shares. “It’s also a really nice way to cool down a bit. As the instructor, I think using those muscles and doing the exercises with them also benefits myself as a performer.”
Beret’s experience highlights the symbiotic relationship between Vitality in Motion and the local dance community. Not only do the dancers bring their expertise and passion to the classes, but they also gain valuable insights and skills that can enhance their own artistic pursuits.
Expanding the Reach of Wellness
As I delve deeper into the world of Bridge City’s dance and yoga scene, I can’t help but feel a sense of awe and inspiration. Vitality in Motion’s mission to improve the lives of older adults through movement is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives.
“The idea is that we have Vitality in Motion offered in almost every major city so that all of the senior living facilities that are really trying to help our older adults have a better life are able to offer them dance,” Vanessa says, her eyes alight with determination. “And then we are able to support local artists by offering them opportunities to work and teach adaptive dance programs.”
This vision of nationwide expansion speaks to the universal need for accessible, inclusive wellness programs that cater to the diverse needs of our aging population. And with the support of the Bridge City Chamber of Commerce and the wider community, Vitality in Motion is poised to unlock the benefits of movement for countless individuals across the country.
As I bid farewell to the vibrant dance and yoga studios of Bridge City, I can’t help but feel a sense of hope and excitement. This city has shown me that the power of movement knows no bounds, and that by embracing the rhythm of wellness, we can unlock a world of physical, mental, and social transformation.
