Dancing to the Drum Beat

Happy Dancing! International Dance Day is celebrated annually on April 29th to promote the art of dance and to raise awareness about its cultural and social significance. Dance has been an essential part of human culture for centuries and has been used as a form of expression, communication, and celebration in various communities worldwide. We Indigenous are among those who have a deep connection to dance, as it is an integral part of our culture, life, and imagination.
For we Indigenous, dance is more than just a form of entertainment. It is a way to connect with the spiritual world and to express gratitude for the gifts of nature. Indigenous dances are often performed during important ceremonies and rituals, such as the powwow, which is a gathering of Indigenous people to celebrate our heritage and culture. The powwow is a time to honor our ancestors, celebrate life, and connect with the community.
A favorite is a dance in the old style, with a doeskin dress and moccasins, because it has a powerful impact on my health and well-being. This is because traditional clothing and footwear are made from natural materials, such as animal hide and fur, which allows my body to absorb the earth's electrons. This process, known as "grounding" or "earthing," has long roots in Indigenous traditions, has been studied scientifically, and has numerous health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving sleep, and boosting the immune system.
Dancing in traditional styles allows a connection with the land and the ancestors, reflecting the cultural heritage of my Indigenous Cohanzick people. Dancing this way enables tapping into the wisdom and energy of my ancestors and honoring my traditions and way of life.
In addition to the physical and cultural benefits, dancing in the old style is a profoundly spiritual experience. The rhythmic movements of my body, combined with the drum's beat and the singers' chanting, create a trance-like state that allows me to connect with the spiritual world and receive guidance and healing.
Dancing in the old style with traditional clothing and footwear is a powerful way to promote optimal health and well-being, both physically and spiritually. It is a way to honor the past, connect with the land and the ancestors, and celebrate the richness and diversity of my culture.
One of the important dances in Indigenous culture is the Eagle Dance. This dance is performed to honor the eagle, which is considered a sacred bird in many Indigenous traditions. The Eagle Dance is performed by men and women, who dance in a circle around  the drum. The dance movements represent the soaring flight of the eagle and the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds.
Another important dance in Indigenous culture is the Hoop Dance. This dance is performed by a single dancer who uses multiple hoops to create intricate and symbolic shapes. The Hoop Dance represents the interconnectedness of all things in nature and the importance of balance and harmony.
Dance is not just a performance art for Indigenous, but also a way of life. It is used to teach important values and traditions to younger generations, as well as to heal physical and emotional ailments. The healing power of dance is particularly important in Indigenous communities, where historical trauma and ongoing social and economic disparities have led to high rates of mental and physical health issues.
In Indigenous imagination, dance is also closely connected to storytelling and mythology. Many Indigenous stories feature dancing as a central theme, such as the story of the Sun Dance, which is a ceremony that honors the sun and involves fasting, prayer, and dancing. The Sun Dance is a way to connect with the spiritual world and to seek guidance and healing from the ancestors.
In conclusion, dance is vital to Indigenous culture, life, and imagination. It is a way to honor the past, celebrate the present, and connect with the spiritual world. On International Dance Day, let us recognize the importance of dance in all cultures and celebrate the diversity of human expression. Here is a link to some of our Pow Wow videos: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLg0Nn3Z-HylFLhffZPSSwwrNeXIy1CCxQ