The Fusion of Fabric, Color and 7th Chakra (Violet)

 

The Fusion of Fabric, Color and 7th Chakra (Violet)

Denise E Williams/Subtle Woman

Medicine Woman in the Cherokee Tradition

Occupational Therapist/Wellness Counselor

Healing Touch Certified Practitioner &

Psychic/Intuitive Empath & Medium

12.22.2021

The 7^th Chakra is located at the top of the head—the Crown Chakra. It represents the states of Higher Consciousness, Sovereignty, Wisdom and Divine Connection.  Purple/Violet is the color of Spirituality, Supernatural Experience, Royalty and Imagination.

Opening the Hoop scene with the hand-cupped clap evokes memories of dancing 1940’s Jazz with Julian Swain, Najwa Soyini and Mickey Davidson, as a teenager and young adult.  The precision of sound and rhythm carves out a smile from remembering the intensity of instruction in rehearsals and for pending performances.  Each of my instructors impressed the importance of rhythm, tempo, beat and musicality.

Dianne Reeves’ strong vocals uplift my mood and moves within the encircling Hoop.  And yes, indeed, Today Will Be a Good Day, especially, if you make it so!

Kick-Ball-Changes transition into sustained Crossovers with one-foot stance.  I love those unexpected moments of gravity-challenging Hoop feats in a flash, but time seems to dangle in the execution. [Hoop, don’t fail me now].

The Honky Tonk and Blues’ influences on this Hoop choreo is appreciated.  There is a funky toe-tapping and head-nodding backbeat that ushers me into the next dance sequence.  Julian taught me the multi-step sequence of Step-Slide, Step-Step-Slide, Step-Step-Kick-Kick-1-2-3-4, etc.  Being able to fit that complexity into the music and Hoop rotation really gave me a surge of Energy.

In my 30’s, I danced Senegalese rhythms by a drummer, Twakhu (now deceased and sorely missed). I included his arm pattern i.e. And-1, And-2, And-3 And-4, as a movement flourish to the music.  [While I’m at it, let me add a bit of Steve Condos’ Tap drill—Thank you, Bril Barrett, Director at MADD Rhythms, Inc].

Ending the Hoop piece with a sincere self-effacing bow to those who watched my rhythmic intention, I say, “Thank you.”

 

The Fusion of Fabric, Color and 6th Chakra (Indigo)

 

The Fusion of Fabric, Color and 6th Chakra (Indigo)

Denise E Williams/Subtle Woman

Occupational Therapist/Wellness Counselor

Healing Touch Certified Practitioner &

Psychic/Intuitive Empath & Medium

12.15.2021

The 6^th Chakra—the 3^rd Eye (center of the Brow Chakra) is governed by the color, Indigo. The deep bluish purple sheds light on the characteristics of the 6^th Chakra i.e., intuition, self-awareness, dreams, clarity and visualization. Being personally attuned to the sensitivities of the 6^th chakra has been a blessing and a challenge for me.  The stories and awakenings have been many.

Dancing and miming to Lou Rawls’ “In the Evening, When the Sun Goes Down,” helps me to tap into my intuitive center, as a guide for the gesticulations and interpretation of Mr. Rawls’ lyrics. The Foot Swipes, Fall -Off-the Logs, Fishtails, Susie Q’s and Jazz Turns mimic the smoothness of his velvety Baritone stylings.

The transitioning of Solo Jazz/Blues Dancing into Hoop Dance Stylings requires graded control and subtle lateral movements. It allows me to slowly infuse previous dance steps into a revolving, on-waist Hooping pattern, including on/off-beat and syncopated rhythms.  All-in-all, my mood is buoyed by the Jazz/Blues-inspired movements.  The polyrhythms of Afrobeat, Swing, Lindy, Balboa and Tap are supportive of my improvisations. It is the Autonomic Nervous (physiological regulation) and Reticular Activating Systems (awake, alert & engaged) functioning at their best, with their cohorts, Tactile-Vestibular and Proprioceptive Systems (sense of touch, movement and joint awareness).

Endorphins are at work!

The Fusion of Fabric, Color and 5th Chakra (Blue)

 

The Fusion of Fabric, Color and 5th Chakra (Blue)

Denise E Williams/Subtle Woman

Occupational Therapist/Wellness Counselor

Healing Touch Certified Practitioner &

Psychic/Intuitive Empath & Medium

12.8.2021

 

Blue is the Color of the 5^th Chakra and its representation of expression, listening to others, communication, creativity and respect of others.

This video entails many elements of the 5^th Chakra: blue Venetian tile background and blue costuming, including blue Earlusions, designed by Akosua Bandele, blue performance fan, blue patterned hat, designed by Larry Davis, blue/silver weighted Hoop.

Aretha Franklin’s cover of “Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive” hits the spot. Johnny Mercer’s lyrics suggest the need for behavioral considerations:

“You’ve gotta accentuate the positive.

Eliminate the negative,

Latch on to the affirmative,

Don’t mess with Mister In-Between.

You’ve got to spread joy up to the maximum.

Bring gloom, down to the minimum,

Otherwise, pandemonium

Is liable to walk up on the scene.

The light Swing rhythm framed by the Gospel-Mezzo vocal quality lends itself to the inclusion of Kick-Ball-Changes, Shorty George’s, Tacky Ann’s, Jazz Walks and the tempo-punctuating, Foot Fans.

Speaking your Truth can be liberating and fulfilling on your Unfolding Journey. What is your choice of freedom—drawing, painting, knitting, sculpting, writing, sewing, dancing, singing or playing an instrument? Exploring and expressing through your artistic choices can be eye-opening, self-regulating and Healing. Covid-19’s need for Social distancing, isolation & sheltering in place can provide the time and space for the Exploration and Expression of the Self. 

Just sayin'…

The Fusion of Fabric, Color and 4th Chakra (Green)

 

The Fusion of Fabric, Color and 4th Chakra (Green)

Denise E Williams/Subtle Woman

Occupational Therapist/Wellness Counselor

Healing Touch Certified Practitioner &

Psychic/Intuitive Empath & Medium

12.1.2021

Exploring the Energy of the 4^th Chakra leads one to attune to love for others, oneself, compassion, empathy and forgiveness. Consider that unconditional love, compassion and joy emanate from this Energy center. During a meditation, affirmation or mantra, one can focus on the connection to the hearts of others.

My acknowledgement of the 4th chakra guided me to the green garments in my wardrobe. [That’s right, I made a green peacock-feathered hat for Swing dancing]. My Earlusions and earrings by Akosua Bandele lift my Spirits and top

off the costume for this vid.

Nicole Henry’s rendition of “Feeling Good” featuring Pete Wallace, Eric England, David Chiverton and Aaron Lebos creates the syncopated rhythms and percussive beats of a Samba and Bossa Nova. The polyrhythms with call & response exchanges can be felt in the riding rhythm. Weighted Hoop Dancing requires that I coordinate my weight shifts, balance responses and core engagement to sustain the on-waist levitation and sequential Hoop rotations.

The lyrics evoke feelings and images of lightness, joy, the element of Air, scents, water and freedom—beginning of a day, a new dawn. The musical accompaniment creates a sense of relaxation and calmness. [Oh good, another technique to promote a Parasympathetic Response for self-regulation and to rest and digest].

Dancing is my Heartthrob! 💚

 

The Fusion of Fabric, Color and 3rd Chakra (Yellow)

 

The Fusion of Fabric, Color and 3^rd Chakra (Yellow)

Denise E Williams/Subtle Woman

Occupational Therapist/Wellness Counselor

Healing Touch Certified Practitioner &

Psychic/Intuitive Empath & Medium

11.24.2021

The 3^rd Chakra embodies the color, yellow. This color symbolizes Energy, intellect, and new beginnings. In addition, self-confidence, empowerment and gut instincts are seated in the Solar Plexus Chakra. I indulged myself and foraged my closet and drawers to create my yellow-inspired costume, including my mother’s woven top (Michael Simon/NYC) and woven gold hat (my creation). Upon viewing the video, I smiled at the serendipitous inclusion of the overhead yellow light fixture—the Sun.

When I chose the song, Momma, Do I Gotta, by Beverly Kenney, I was amused and enthused by the simplicity of the lyrics. The indwelling message of the songstress’ question seems to imply self-doubt, reliance on another and challenges with decision-making. The doubt that the lyricist implied is sung so adeptly and innocently by Ms. Kenney.

During my Shamanic and Energetic healings, I often use the 7 Chakras as a foundational tool of discernment and exploration of the Physical, Emotional, Mental and Spiritual layers. My clinical observations, as an Occupational Therapist, provide additional considerations and therapeutic intervention to enhance one’s optimal functional skills, sensory processing and self-regulation, but not limited to.

My portrayal of someone’s challenges with this perceived predicament is meant to be light-hearted and willing to resolve it. The song’s meter reminds me of a nursery rhyme or children’s song. My dance stylings are rooted in Swing, Balboa, Collegiate Shag—mirthful movements intended to make the viewer smile. The lilting vocal stylings and phrasing, also, encourage Joy.

Accessing Joy and remaining light-hearted during these complicated times are laborious and often difficult to attain. However, I remain Hopeful and Hoop-ful!!!

"She Threw Her Shoe at Me!!!"

                                                                   "She Threw Her Shoe at Me!!!" 

                                                                   Denise E Williams/Subtle Woman

Occupational Therapist/Wellness Counselor,

Healing Touch Certified Practitioner &

Psychic/Intuitive Empath & Medium 

11.11.2021 

So, this happened today... 

Along with fourteen other women, I attended Day 2 of @dance_with_judith, Judith McCarty’s AfroDance Intensive, hosted by @ladysoldancediary, Leyda “LadySol” Garcia and @jazi_jayz, Jazmin D Johnson. It was held at @SteadfastDanceCenter in Pilsen. 

The Energy in the class was stoked!!!  Judith and @gingyanya, Anya, the fiery team from NYC (by way of the Congo and Croatia), respectively, taught and modeled the flava of the Congolese Grooves and Culture—Whines, arm/hand work with dance dynamics from pianissimo (very softly) to forte (strong) i.e. tiny embers to raging fiyah.   

The ease in which Judith initiated the intricacies of the choreo put the dancers at ease. Class began with Whining drills that morphed into choreography.  Judith and Anya’s generosity of Spirit and willingness to ensure that all the dancers, despite their skills, comprehended and executed the dance sequence at an optimal level.   

As Judith completed the choreography, she selected and arranged us in different groups for filming. Heartbeat...Heartbeat...Heartbeat... (Where’s my hippocampus when I need it?) Heartbeat... I’m in the next group!!! Somehow, my indwelling comedienne comes through. [Oh yeah, discomfort...Humor, Help me NOW!!!] 

Judith looked at me and said, “Oh, Denise, you can do it by yourself.  I was flooded with dread, adrenaline and a need for a mad dash to the door! [Okay, Walter Mitty, calm down.] 

Needless-to-say, I pulled it together and gave it a Herculean effort to dance the choreo (in my weighted Hoop) with my left eye locked on her. I even shadowed Judith in an improv-driven segment—with my right eye locked on her. 

When I scurried off the dance floor, the piece de resistance landed at my feet.  A lone shoe was thrown by Lady Sol in a congratulatory gesture for my impromptu performance with Judith! Thank you, Lady Sol. 

I was flooded with unexpected Joy!!! Thank you so much Judith, Anya, Lady Sol and Jazmin [not to ignore, the alignment of the stars] for the Golden Confetti Moment today! 

The Fusion of Fabric Color and 2nd Chakra (Orange)

 

The Fusion of Fabric, Color & Chakras

Denise E Williams/Subtle Woman,

Occupational Therapist/Wellness Counselor,

Healing Touch Certified Practitioner &

Psychic/Intuitive Empath & Medium

11.17.2021

This week finds me exploring the color, Orange and the 2^nd Chakra. It is also known as the Sacral Chakra. This internal Energy center corresponds to different colors and areas of the body. It governs our emotions, creativity, relationships, well-being and self-expression.

My orange handkerchief-hem skirt and see-through lace top reminds me of the whimsy and flexibility in friendships and loving relationships. The mere definition of see-through connotes “not to be deceived by; not to be taken in by; be wise; to encourage and keep going.”  This definition offers hope in the best of relationships. [Costuming is a subtle, yet, meaningful aspect of The Hoop Narrative].

The choreography is symbolic of the frivolity that I intend to create in response to Beverly Kenney’s “It’s a Most Unusual Day.” The light piano and vocal rendition denote a slight Swing tempo. I purposefully chose the staging of the two punching bags for the 2^nd Chakra’s resistance, protection, connection, etc. as other elements within relationships. When I Swing Dance, I feel the connection of the music, rhythms, phrasing and lyrics. The dance coupling of Lead and Follow creates an element of communication, trust and often resultant--Joy!

Holistic Hoop’s vibe is pulsing with Energy, musicality, color, texture and dance. My Hoop videos reflect the symbiotic relationship that I have with my weighted Hoop, music selection and inspired movements. The synergistic neural response occurs through the Tactile (sense of touch), Vestibular (sense of movement, balance and spatial orientation) and Proprioceptive (sense of position, effort, force and heaviness) input. Hoist, Hover and Hoop…Hoist, Hover and Hoop replay in my thoughts, as I explore the conflation of music and movement in the Hoop.

Aha—another Energetic, therapeutic and wellness strategy suggests that my Parasympathetic Nervous System is positively and quickly fueled by the interplay of Hooping and Dancing. Weekly, I join DJ Vince Adams’ 10,000 StepsHouse Music Party on Twitch (audio feed) and Zoom (video feed). I am inspired by the community of online dancers, Hoopers, roller skaters and fitness enthusiasts who join this virtual event each Wednesday. I am buoyed by this multi-sensory and social-emotional experience, exp. during Covid-19.

The Fusion of Fabric, Color and 1st Chakra (Red)

 

 

The Fusion of Fabric, Color & Chakras

Denise E Williams/Subtle Woman,

Occupational Therapist/Wellness Counselor,

Healing Touch Certified Practitioner &

Psychic/Intuitive Empath & Medium

11.10.2021

 

As the seasons change, so do my fitness and well-being needs. One of the last warm days in November prompted my idea to highlight the seven colors of the chakras through my Hooping videos. Red denotes the color of the Root Chakra and my corresponding costume. The Root Chakra represents safety, security, stability and foundation. Red is the beginning of a seven blog-series which examines my self-regulation and stress reduction techniques via music, movement and prop usage during my Weighted Dance Hooping videos.

Costuming is everything to a performer. It ramps up the Ode to Joy of stage production. As Shaman & an Occupational Therapist, I know the value of weight, texture, color & compression of elements and material. The fabric, leather bottom boots, satin gloves, sateen performance fans, music and weighted Hoop evoked a Parasympathetic Nervous System (calm and relaxed) response and the benefit of grounding through the Tactile, Proprioceptive and Vestibular input. My firm grasp on the fans for the sudden downward flick fed my Spirit each time. Creativity flowed for my choice of the rhythmic and auditory patterns. This afforded the listening ears of the other dancers and me, mini neuro-taps to our Nervous Systems. We yelled, laughed, smiled and connected with the unexpected usage and frivolity of the two fans. I was so happy during a post-video production. Upon viewing and reliving the feedback of the multi-sensory input, I was bemused and amused by the titillation to my visual cortex. My PNS response was organic. The joyful lyrics & vocal stylings by Blossom Dearie, Swing dance tempo and November's unusually warm air added to the elation.

The transition of Summer into Fall/Winter requires my intentional navigation to eschew the adverse imprint of Seasonal Affective Disorder & the social-emotional constraints of Covid-19 on my physical, emotional, mental and Spiritual well-being. 

Aha—I will now employ a major wellness technique & coping strategy i.e., a daily regimen of Weighted Dance Hooping to various rhythms & musical genres!

Just Sayin’…