A message from Lee

Here is a comment from Lee with lots of great information. I thought I would post it so that you all would be sure to see and read it! Enjoy...

Reading Elisabeth's wonderful and robust words, I was inspired to reestablish a deeper connection to one of my idols who inspired me greatly as a young dancer; even though she was very old at the time. To quote a passage of Martha Graham..."Many times I hear the phrase 'the dance of life.' It is an expression that touches me deeply, for the instrument through which the dance speaks is also the instrument through which life is lived-the human body. It is the instrument by which all the primaries of life are made manifest...Dancing appears glamorous, easy, delightful. But the path to the paradise of the achievement is not easier than any other. It takes about ten years to make a mature dancer...The body is shaped, disciplined, honored, and in time, trusted."

I want to add that this is the very same truth in achieving sustained, elegant, movement through the STL program. The practice and application of discipline, consistency, focus and commitment nourish and strengthens the soul WHILE achieving a fit, pliable, elegant, graceful body.

Ms. Graham goes on to say - and this is a FUNDAMENTAL aspect of the STL philosophy - "Then comes the cultivation of the being from which whatever you have to say comes...and there is grace. I mean the grace resulting from faith in life, in love, in people, in the act of dancing. (and I add)...in the act of MOVING...which in itself, can be a beautiful dance."

To me, building this program is an act of faith and love. An act of BELIEVING in the power of moving to create health and vitality. To NOT move would be death to me. To move with strength, grace, power, dignity and purpose; is the essence of living. Then the soul can shine, the heart open, and the spirit, no matter the trials and challenges of the moment, can sing; if even for a brief moment; it is a moment that can and often will, sustain.

Yours in elegance and health,

Lee Vallely
Founder; Director
Corporate Wellness Solutions

For more on Martha Graham go to: www.marthagraham.org.

**Update**
Everyone should be aware, but just in case... the Monday 7:00 p.m. class will not be held for the next few weeks do to a schedule conflict at Mecca. This week, we will meet instead on Tuesday at 4:00 p.m., February 10, in the Mecca studio. Hope to see you all there!