Exploring the Dance Journey: A Personal Reflection on the Evolution of Movement

Written by Kan, aged 16

Grade 12, Kasetsart University Laboratory School

In my dance journey, I have explored various dance styles, each contributing to my growth and love for the art. As a child, I struggled with poor posture, resembling a hunchback. Recognizing my passion, my mother sought ways to address it and enrolled me in a ballet class during my primary school years. Little did I know that this would mark the beginning of my transformative dance journey. As I continue to mature, I eagerly embrace new dance styles, constantly expanding my repertoire.

During my first ballet class, I vividly recall feeling shy as I faced my fellow dancers. However, after just three classes, my hesitations faded away, and I found myself enthralled by the graceful movements of ballet. Not only did ballet shape me as a dancer, but it also instilled in me a sense of tranquility and politeness, as its soft and fluid style permeated my being. Although I temporarily paused my ballet training for two years, I embarked on a new adventure when I discovered jazz in secondary school. The complexity and challenges of jazz movements captivated me, allowing me to push myself further. Over three years of jazz training, I grew more assertive, regularly gracing the stage and relishing every performance.

As I entered my M.3 year, the pressure to prepare for school entrance exams weighed heavily upon me. Determined to succeed academically, I made the difficult choice to temporarily set aside jazz dancing and devote myself to studying. During those two years, it felt as if I had lost a part of myself and my cherished hobby. However, the flame of my passion reignited in M.5 when I discovered an idol who possessed exceptional dancing skills. Inspired by their talent, I delved into new styles such as cover dance and hip-hop. These genres presented formidable challenges that fueled my enthusiasm and intensified my love for dancing. This period in my dance journey proved to be immensely enjoyable, further igniting my interest in the art form.

My family often questions why I hold such a profound love for dancing. For me, dance class is not only a form of exercise but a sanctuary where I find solace, relaxation, and pure joy. Regardless of life's hardships, dancing allows me to let go, rejuvenate my spirit, and embrace moments of pure bliss. Through dancing, I have gained numerous invaluable gifts: increased flexibility, personal growth, and above all, a profound sense of happiness. I enthusiastically share with my friends and family the wonders that dance has bestowed upon me, emphasizing the joy and fulfillment it brings, even without aspirations of becoming a professional dancer. Dancing is my pathway to happiness.

Although I have currently paused my dance classes to prepare for university entrance exams, I remain confident that once I complete the exams, I will return to the world of dance. Throughout my journey, I have gained invaluable experiences, graced countless stages, and developed unwavering confidence. Dancing has enriched my life, bringing forth newfound happiness and a deep sense of gratitude for all that it encompasses.