Dance For Healing " Forro " Workshop Saturday 25th October @ 11:15am
Dance For Healing " Forro " Workshop Saturday 25th October @ 11:15am
This is the Eight edition of the Dance For Healing Programme
💃 1. It’s accessible to Everyone
Forró is often called “the people’s dance” in Brazil because it doesn’t require fancy shoes, rigid posture, or years of training to get started.
The basic steps are simple enough for complete beginners, yet flexible enough that advanced dancers can make it stylish and playful.
This accessibility makes newcomers feel included almost immediately – they can dance after their very first class!
🎶 2. The Music is Irresistible
Forró is danced to the accordion-driven rhythms of Northeastern Brazil – full of swing, joy, and groove.
The music itself is upbeat, heartfelt, and contagious, making people want to move without overthinking.
Even if you don’t understand Portuguese, the rhythms and melodies make you feel connected.
🤝 3. Connection is Everything
Forró is about closeness and communication. The embrace is cozy and friendly, and partners quickly feel comfortable.
Unlike some Latin dances where distance and performance can dominate, Forró thrives on intimacy and flow – which creates that “hug in motion” feeling.
It’s both romantic and platonic, making it welcoming in social circles.
🌍 4. Community & Inclusivity
Forró festivals are famous worldwide for their warmth and togetherness. Dancers switch partners constantly, and the sense of community is stronger than in many other dances.
There’s little hierarchy; beginners can dance with pros, and everyone has fun.
This social glue is a big reason why Forró has spread far beyond Brazil – from Europe to Asia.
🕺 5. Playful Improvisation
The dance is not rigid. You can play with spins, steps, footwork, or simply sway in a close embrace.
This balance of structure + freedom means dancers can adapt to the music, mood, and partner – keeping things exciting every time.
In this workshop, you’ll:
🧠 Mental & Emotional Benefits
Stress relief: The embrace, the music, and the playful steps help people unwind and let go of tension.
Boosts confidence: Since it’s easy to learn, people feel accomplished faster, which gives them motivation to keep dancing.
Mindfulness: Forró’s flow demands presence in the moment, improving focus and reducing overthinking.
❤️ Social & Community Benefits
Stronger bonds: The close but friendly connection fosters trust and empathy.
Inclusive environment: Beginners can dance immediately, making social dance spaces more welcoming.
Cultural connection: Learning Forró introduces people to Brazilian culture, traditions, and festivals, broadening their horizons.
💪 Physical Benefits
Full-body exercise: Even though it feels gentle, it works the core, legs, and stamina.
Better posture & coordination: The embrace encourages balance and alignment, while the footwork trains agility.
Healthy hormones: Close dancing increases oxytocin and dopamine, boosting happiness and wellbeing.
🎨 Creative Benefits
Freedom to improvise: Unlike rigid dances, Forró allows dancers to be playful and creative without pressure.
Musicality: Dancers learn to interpret different rhythms (xote, baião, arrasta-pé) and express them in unique ways.
Personal expression: Whether cozy and intimate or bouncy and fun, Forró adapts to your mood.
🌍 Life Benefits
Travel & festivals: Forró is booming worldwide, with communities in Europe, Asia, and the US. Dancers can travel, connect, and make lifelong friends.
Cross-cultural exchange: It encourages people to step outside their bubble and experience Brazilian warmth and hospitality.
Accessible wellbeing: It’s one of the most low-barrier forms of dance therapy – simple steps, close connection, maximum joy.
Book our next Dance For Healing workshop on Saturday 25th May 24 at 11AM
Find out how you can benefit with this programme
