Dance and music are a form of language that transcends cultures, physical ability, and age barriers.
The experience of singing or dancing together makes us happier and fosters feelings of feelings of closeness.
“You use a glass mirror to see your face. You use works of art to see your soul.” – George Bernard Shaw
Through creativity and collaboration, we can feel more connected to each other.
This week, we bring you stories about people from around the world who are harnessing the power of creative connection!
- A group of lion-dancing seniors brings joy to others
- Skateboarder breaks free from society’s expectations of older women
- A dance program is empowering individuals with Down syndrome
- This musical genius is inspiring others
Weekly Uplifting Stories – June 2nd, 2024
Active aging program tackles loneliness among seniors
Singapore’s first group of lion-dancing seniors, the Silver Pride Lion Troupe, showcases a mastery of coordination.
The group made its debut at the Lunar New Year celebrations this year.
The head was manipulated by an 80-year-old man sitting in a wheelchair and the lion’s body and tail were supported by another senior.
The group worked together seamlessly to bring the majestic creature to life.
From specially designed strengthening exercises to a 3D-printed pulley and lever system within the lion head, everything was customized so that elderly people of all abilities could participate in the dance.
This Lion Dance training provides seniors the opportunity to stay active, socially engaged, and age healthily.
Mr. Lee Poh Wah, Lien Foundation’s chief executive, said:
“Lion dance is synonymous with vitality, community, celebration, and life – the very things we don’t associate with seniors. Seeing them perform such a dance helps us break down walls. The lion can be a Trojan horse to fight ageism.”
Skateboarder “aunty” is inspiring others to live their best lives
Oorbee Roy is a motivational speaker and skateboard instructor, also known as Aunty Skates on social media.
She started skating at the age of 43, and within a few years, she managed to amass a huge following on social media.
Through her videos, she’s spreading a lot of joy and positivity while overcoming cultural taboos and defying stereotypes.
Oorbee encourages her audiences to pursue their creative passions, regardless of their age.
She gets positive messages from people all over the world, thanking her for inspiring them to get out there and do the thing they really want.
“I think adults forget to play and there’s no reason why we shouldn’t give ourselves time and permission to go out there and play,” said Oorbee.
A dance program is helping people with Down syndrome lead healthier lives
Down to Dance is making dance fun and accessible to individuals with Down syndrome.
This program welcomes individuals of all age groups. Some dancers are as young as 7 years old. And, the oldest participant is 62!
This dance program strengthens their self-confidence and improves self-awareness while encouraging them to remain active and engaged.
The skills that participants gain from dance can be directly applied to everyday life situations.
“We’re not dumbing down the choreography. They are the ones that are now raising the bar. It’s not me. I’m just catching up. That to me is what drives a lot of the work that I do. I wanna get them out in the community like the world needs to see that the bar is not low.” Sari Anna Thomas co-founder of Down for Dance.
A blind teen with autism is inspiring others through the power of music
Holly Connor, a blind teen with autism is captivating people with her exceptional musical talent.
She started showing interest in playing the piano when she was just 6 months old!
With the support of her parents and teachers, Holly has been able to harness her natural talent. She now performs in musicals, plays, and operas. At 19 years old, she already has a myriad of remarkable accomplishments under her belt.
Her unwavering commitment to music and her ability to adapt to different situations is inspiring many.
“Holly’s story provides people hope when they see what people are capable of given the limitations, it is good for the human spirit,” said, Titus Sears Holly’s stepfather.
What are Your Uplifting Stories?
And there you have it! Hopefully, these stories will inspire you – or at least brighten your day with a little human sunshine. There are good things happening in the world right now too – we just have to look a little harder for them sometimes.
If you want to get involved, you can send us your own links or Uplifting Stories by commenting below, or connecting with us on Instagram. If we publish your story, we will also give you a shoutout!
Photo by Andrew Lomas
