Stephanie Sawyer "I discovered belly dance many years ago while living in Santa Fe, NM. I took classes in several different styles of belly dance before being introduced to the joy of American Tribal Style by Myra Krien of Pomegranate Studios. Although I loved it, at that time my personal life did not allow me to attend many classes. I promised myself that once I had the time, I would truly study the dance form. I re-found belly dance in 2006 after moving to the Sheboygan, WI area. I now study both Stefanie Masters’ Dance for the Soul format as well as Sacred Moon Tribal format. The first is all about feeling and expressing the music, I love the freedom of DFTS. The second provides a structure and a sense of community that is so fulfilling to share. One of my favorite aspects of tribal is the variety of movements that have been interpreted from many different styles of dance. It is truly a blend of influences from the global community. "Much to my surprise, I also use the lessons learned in belly dance classes in my professional life as a Project Manager. The concepts needed to dance together as a unit such as building trust and awareness of each other can be effectively applied to improve team dynamics in a corporate environment. "Belly dance is also a wonderful antidote to a stressful day at work. Even if I am very tired and irritable when I get to dance class, I always leave feeling happy. And this is something that my husband and two teenagers particularly appreciate! "Belly dance feeds my soul. I use it as a moving meditation and as a holistic form of healing. I dance for my soul, for myself, to heal, to rejuvenate, to share and to celebrate. I have found my heart in belly dance." ~Stephanie Sawyer |
| Photo By Bill Tricomi Hearts For Scarlet Benefit 2009 |