The dance of Flamenco
flamenco
[ flah-meng-koh, fluh- ]
noun, plural fla·men·cos.
a style of spirited dancing, characteristic of the Andalusian Gypsies, that is strongly rhythmic and involves vigorous actions, as clapping the hands and stamping the feet often performed to flamenco music
a style of Spanish music, played especially on the guitar and accompanied by singing and dancing often with castanets
My relationship with flamenco started as a young girl. Growing up with a mother who was born in Spain I grew up with strong Spanish influences. The smell of onions and garlic frying was a constant whiff under my nose. So of course, a rite of passage for a young Spanish girl is to learn the art of flamenco dance. For many years my grandparents would bring me to class never wanting me to miss a session and always making sure freshly baked sweets were along for the drive. They were always sure to make every effort so I could have a custom flamenco dress made for my performances, I loved visiting their friend Maria’s house who would sew my sweet frilly dresses.
It was here I would discover the greatness of a dance that taught girls power and strength. I eventually stopped as my teen years begun and I moved my attention onto other things but my little gypsy flamenco dancing spirt still lived within. I often day dreamed about dancing flamenco however the ripple pulled me into other directions.
It was soon I met my teacher Azahara. By luck I stumbled upon her flamenco classes. It was a space to express the dance of flamenco and also something more. I felt I was being guided to bridge the feelings I was feeling into messages and knowings. Azahara offers teachings through each action, affirmation and embodiment. Empowering us to welcome our feminine powers and responsibilities and to channel the gypsy spirit.
As the ripples continued to pulse and as I moved into “The Body In Full Bloom” cycle of my life, I started to hear the stomping of my flamenco shoes becoming louder, feeling my body calling for that fire to be ignited within. My experiences around me showing me to acknowledge the fierceness of my being. She is welcome here, she is enough.
The gypsy, her spirit is free. She stands in defence of her beliefs, she will question every rule and refuses to conform to the arbitrary ones. She will not be held down by anyone or anything, she will follow her heart and intuition.
Azahara and her creation can be found here
Interesting reading on the 7 year cycles of life
Moments captured by Carme Photography Byron Bay
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