Nature's message was always there and for us to see. It was written on the wings of butterflies.
​- Kjell B. Sandved

The butterfly symbolizes change and new beginnings and holds special significance for Wendy and me. During our trip to Australia, we were fortunate enough to witness a breathtaking sight: a swarm of butterflies fluttering gracefully around a tree, nourishing themselves with the nectar of the beautiful flowers.

This experience reminded us of the transformative power of nature and the beauty of embracing new experiences in life.

Our trip to Australia was wonderful, the workshops were profound, and the Australian dance community was amazing. I am happy to slowly land back in the Bay Area. I love to dance with other tribes. Something powerful happens when we share the magic we create in our local dance community with another, bringing our practices to a different country or continent and transporting their magic back to us when I return. 

Exploring unfamiliar landscapes, encountering new animal beings, and immersing myself in the rich tapestry of ancestral cultures is always a deeply inspiring experience. New ancestral cultures may be foreign to me, but somehow they feel familiar. I related to the rocks, the trees, the ocean, and the ancient vibrations. This journey has reaffirmed my belief that, despite geographical distances, we remain interconnected through the universal language of dance, spirit, and love.

As I resume teaching at home, I eagerly look forward to blending these diverse energies. I am excited to announce that I will return to Point Richmond on June 10 for the monthly "Sweat Your Prayers" session. I am deeply grateful to Jennifer Burner for gracefully filling in for me for the May class.

In other news, I am scheduling our yearly Outreach Facilitator Training for August 24th - 27th.

The SDP Outreach Facilitator training program serves as a bridge, allowing us to bring the joy of dance to those who believe they cannot dance or cannot afford to. Our work continues to thrive through Zoom sessions with active elders and in-person sessions with Carmelita, a housing program for women who have experienced severe trauma. Additionally, we are honored to continue our classes at the Veterans Hospital, supporting veterans with mental health concerns and blindness.

Here’s a quote from one of the recreational therapists:

My journey may have taken me far from home, but it has also brought me closer to the essence of our practice. As I integrate these transformative experiences into my teachings, I am filled with a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude for all of you.

With love,
Sylvie and the SDP Team 
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