Clayton dance class addresses mobility challenges for health, happiness

Submitted by Lori Duperon

CLAYTON — SpiritJoy Dance launched an eight-week class for adults with mobility challenges, Parkinson’s and similar issues beginning last month.

SpiritJoy Dance in downtown Clayton invites adults with those mobility challenges to experience the joy of dancing with other dancers in the new DEBA (Dance for Every Body & Ability) class.

“This is not your traditional dance class and requires zero dance experience,” says teaching artist Lori Duperon, a former professional dancer with a dance degree from UCLA. “DEBA is more of a creative expression class using many dance and movement styles inspired by a wide range of music. The goal is not only to move our bodies but also to create an enjoyable, social environment for artistic exploration.”

In a DEBA class dancers have the option of dancing in a chair or standing based on their comfort and strength that day. The class accommodates movement limitations while still allowing dancers to fully engage body and mind in an enjoyable social environment. According to Duperon, the class is inspired by the research-based Dance for PD program of the Mark Morris Dance Company but is expanded to include people outside of a Parkinson’s diagnosis.

Susan Frenzel, a novelist and writer based in Clayton, was enthusiastic about her dance experience.

“The first thing I noticed while in a clinical trial for dancing with Parkinson's was improved manual dexterity and balance, and a brighter mood, a more positive outlook,” she said. “Expressing yourself creatively with your body is not only good for your physical well-being and spirit, it is good for mental acuity. And you're having so much fun it doesn't feel like ‘work’ at all. I recommend jumping in with both feet — but hold onto the bar! See you there!”

Caregivers are encouraged to attend the DEBA class as well. Each dancer may invite one caregiver or family member to participate in class.

“DEBA provides a valuable opportunity for caregivers and dancers to spend an hour together, a time away from the challenges of everyday life,” said Duperon. “This helps expand their relationship in a healthy way to include being members of the same, supportive dance community.

“SpiritJoy Dance was founded with the mission of improving health and happiness through movement

and making dance accessible for adults of all ages and experience levels. Dance for Every Body & Ability is a project that moves us toward that goal. I am passionate about DEBA because it reaches an underserved audience — people who would like to dance but aren’t able to stand or perhaps some days lack balance. Research has shown dancing slows cognitive decline and muscle loss associated with aging but dancing with others also addresses social isolation and loneliness.”

DEBA classes are held on Saturdays in Downtown Clayton in the ground floor studio of Purna Yoga East at 107 East First Street. The cost is $112 for eight weekly classes, and scholarships are available for those with financial need. See spiritjoydance.org for more information or call 919-289-9112.