One
of my favorite things to do is hula hoop. Hooping incorporates every inch of
your body- from your arms, head, and hands to your chest, knees, and feet. In this short 500 words, I am going to try
and discuss what hooping means to me, why teachingkidstohoop.com has become a
huge part of my life, and the great joy of that circle free-flowing around your
waist.
When
I first picked up a hoop two years ago I didn’t imagine it would have the
impact on me that it did. I lacked confidence and a voice that allowed me to
stand my ground. More importantly I lacked the ability to see things outside of
the box. But when I picked up the hoop I felt pretty and I was motivated to
learn more. Everything I learned I learned from a few friends at our schools
circus club.
It was a group open to people of ALL
skill levels, a way to connect with your inner child, and a new found talent. It
challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone and see the hoop as an
extension of the body.
That
is, it increases the angle
between body parts, and thus you must move together. Executing the tricks takes
practice, but also consideration of timing. You have to be aware of your
surroundings and also of the open space within the hoop. For instance, if you
are trying to do a basic spin around the waist and you hula too early (or too
late) you lose control of the hoop.
For
me this was the next big thing. I not only learned how to do basic hula
hooping, but also to control the hoop and use it as a prop, rather than just a
toy. It became my best friend, a way for me to relieve stress, and a way to
change the inner demons in my head. I would go almost everywhere with a hoop- even
class. Eventually my hoops even had a permanent seat in the back of my car.
Hooping
Academy would allow me to have the freedom to take my hooping to the next
level. I have taught a few classes and watched as shy girls (and boys) gain
confidence in their abilities. For me there is nothing more rewarding than that.
Hooping makes me feel good, and I
want to be able to share that same feeling with others. Even making hoops is a
creative process I highly enjoy! J Each
hoop after all, is as unique as the person who uses it.
Hoops
can even be used within the classroom to teach teamwork, cooperation, movement,
cognition, and more. I feel they are
just as much a part of what makes me who I am as the clothes that I wear and
the shoes on my feet.
I
appreciate all of the links, tips, and resources. Thank
you for the opportunity of a scholarship to The Hooping Academy.
Good luck to you all!
