Virtual Play Workshop: Beginner Hoop Dancing

Join Dr. Caroline P. Cárdenas—certified Elemental Hoop Dance Teacher and a leading researcher on the transformative power of play—for a lively, 90-minute virtual workshop. Discover foundational on- and off-body hoop techniques, then weave them into free-flow dance to spark joy, foster creative expression, and invite meaningful self-reflection. Drawing on over 15 years of teaching play workshops, seminars, and retreats, and grounded in her doctoral research on The Significance of Play in Restoring Compassion, Dr. Caroline creates an uplifting, imaginative space to explore the freeing magic of hoop dance—one spin at a time.

 

 

““PLAY IS THE VITAL ESSENCE OF LIFE. IT IS WHAT MAKES LIFE LIVELY.” 
-DR. STUART BROWN”

The Circle of Play is a body-and-movement practice inviting adults to engage their innate sense of wonder. Guided by Dr. Caroline P. Cárdenas, participants ease into gentle sun salutations that warm the spine, then explore off-body and on-body hoop dance techniques, playful tricks, free-flow sequences, meditation, and reflective moments. Woven through each step are the elements of Air, Earth, Fire, Water, and Space—powerful metaphors that spark creativity and encourage deeper self-expression. In this joyful exploration, we nurture pro-social connections, strengthen empathy, and awaken compassion, shaping a more harmonious society—one hoop swirl at a time.

“HOOP DANCING SUPPORTS BALANCE OF THE MIND, THE BODY, AND THE SOUL THROUGH SELF-EXPRESSION. -C.S.”

 

 

The Benefits of Hoop Dance are Endless & Includes:

  • Builds Body-Mind Awareness 

  • Builds Hand-Eye-Body Coordination

  • Builds Courage

  • Serves as a Movement Meditation

  • Relaxes the Mind & Body

  • Relieves Stress 

  • Builds Stamina

  • Burns 300-400 calories an hour

  • Reduces Stress

  • Nurtures Creative Self-Expression 

  • Fosters Self-Empowerment  

  • Evokes Joy    

  • Promotes Self-care    

  • Cultivates Trust

  • Offers an Intense Cardiovascular Workout  

  • Promotes Physical, Emotional, and Psychological Well-being    

  • Tones the Whole Body  

  • Develops Physical Balance and Coordination    

  • Improves Flexibility

 

What to Bring:

  • Comfortable shoes or you can dance bare foot  

  • Water Bottle  

  • Sassy Layered Yoga Clothes (we will be sweating!) 

  • Yoga Mat (optional)

  • Fold Up Blanket to Sit and Lay On (optional)

  • An Open Mind and Heart

  • And of course, an adult hula hoop!

““BODY AND MOVEMENT PLAY LIGHTS UP THE BRAIN AND FOSTERS LEARNING, INNOVATION, FLEXIBILITY, ADAPTABILITY, AND RESILIENCE. THESE CENTRAL ASPECTS OF HUMAN NATURE REQUIRE MOVEMENT TO FULLY BE REALIZED.” 

-DR. STUART BROWN”