Dance free at silent disco

The joy of dance is being harnessed to encourage residents to venture into nature and reap the benefits of free-movement through accessible silent discos. 

Dance Free CIC is providing a new fully-funded opportunity in Hartsholme Country Park exclusively to residents of Hartsholme, Birchwood and Doddington Park to experience dancing in the woods to improve wellbeing.

Hannah Green, founder of Dance Free and session facilitator explained: “Participants wear wireless headphones, immersing themselves in music while moving freely. Forget the pressure of "being a good dancer", this isn't about choreographed steps or perfect routines. It's about letting go, releasing inhibitions, and discovering the joy of movement in its purest form.

 “The silent disco format creates a feeling of being in a bubble, without the need for verbal interaction, allowing participants to focus on the music and their own movement. 

“This is an opportunity for people to have a go at something, try it and see if it’s something that could benefit them and then bring that into their lives.”

Between June 7 to July 26 adults from these areas are invited to participate in the mood-boosting experience which has been funded by the Lincoln Lottery Community Fund. Booking is essential online to secure a headset. 

“I would recommend people attend all of the sessions but they don’t need to. Sometimes coming a few times can get you used to it and you can relax into the sessions more and more each time you attend.”

Dance Free also hosts open dance sessions across Lincolnshire often held in beautiful locations to allow people to connect with the natural world around them. An environmentally-friendly approach is incorporated into the events as much as possible, including using renewable energy to recharge headsets, offering a WhatsApp group to organise car-pooling, and collaborating with charities such as Green Synergy and Old Wood Organic.

Hannah added: “It’s a very warm and friendly place to come, so if people are feeling a little bit nervous, we can guarantee it’s a really welcoming space.”

Following the 6-week programme for Hartsholme, Birchwood and Doddington Park residents, sessions held at Hartsholme Country Park will be open for everyone.

To find out more visit www.wedancefree.com 

Pictures: Dance Free CIC