LOCALadk Magazine

LOCALadk 32 because they saw us on stage and wanted to try it. I've heard adults tell me how cool and brave it is that I get up on stage to dance. I've grown so much, alongside the program and the people. The classes have only gotten bigger, with opportunities for families to dance together on stage and in community events. Vanessa believes that is an important part of the community the Sanctuary has built. She says, "Shar- ing the stage with people you love is such a powerful experience. It creates a bond that goes far beyond the performance itself. You're learning together, support- ing each other, being vulnerable together—and those moments build trust and connection in such a unique way. The memories created on stage and in rehearsal stay with you. They deepen relationships, strengthen friendships, and create a sense of unity that's truly special. "It's not just about dancing—it's about doing life together in a really meaningful way." The Dance Sanctuary has expanded beyond just the two recital dates with dance classes. We've joined the Winter Carnival Gala parade as a group — spreading joy in one of the biggest community events we have in Saranac Lake. There are also workout classes, pop up dance classes (in the studio and at Rivertrail), and baby/toddler dance parties offered in the mornings. Tupper Lake has a section of dance classes with its own recital. Senior students, like Rebecca's daugh- ter Sophia, have the opportunity to teach their own classes that they've worked to design, sharing their love and skills with the next generation. Vanessa, Mandi, and all instructors have worked tremendously to ensure opportunities for dance to as many people who want to. "Dancing in this class made me realize that dance was something that truly made me happy, like really happy," McComber says. "It made my body feel good, my mind was at ease, my energy spiked and I couldn't wait until the next class. If you ever have the op- portunity to try a class, please do it! You don't have to perform! JUST HAVE FUN! As an adult I feel that it's important to remember that we were young and free once and even if for a moment, you can feel that again!" I wholeheartedly agree with her. I look forward to my weekly Hip Hop classes. It's challenging, but we all support each other and have a blast. Any form of synchronous dance has proven to be beneficial not just for our physical health, but our mental and social emotional health. Studies have prov- en that dancing has proven to enhance our cognitive functions, motor skills, and used as a tool in therapy for strengthening the mind. It also increases social bonding — which means dancers need to be in tune and aware of each other. This leads to strong empathic abilities¹ — and we need empathy now more than ever. Adult hip hop participants before the Winter Carnival parade. Sometimes you can't help but be curious about what's going on in the studio. Yoga class in the Dance Sanctuar y.

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