DanceBeyond: Trauma Informed Movement Dance Classes
Helping survivors reconnect with their bodies, emotions, and confidence through trauma informed movement.
At The Dandelion Project, we believe in the power of movement to heal. DanceBeyond is our specialist trauma informed programme designed for survivors of domestic abuse and those who have experienced difficult relationships. This unique approach offers a safe and empowering space to explore healing through gentle, mindful movement.
What is trauma informed movement?
Trauma informed movement is a practice that recognised the impact of trauma on the body and mind. Rather than pushing or performing, it invited participants to move in ways that feel safe, accessible and nurturing. It respects each person’s autonomy, fosters trust, and focuses on choice and consent at every stage.
DanceBeyond is not a traditional dance class. It’s a carefully held space that uses elements of dance, mindfulness and body awareness to support nervous system regulation, emotional release and reconnection with self.
“Like a dandelion, she let go of what was, trusted in the wind, and allowed herself to grow where she was meant to be”
- unknown
Our Trauma Informed Services
Trauma informed classes - gently guided sessions tailored to survivors’ needs and energy levels
Trauma informed workshops - bespoke, small group experiences designed to deepen self-trust and rebuild confidence
Trauma informed mindfulness - breath, stillness, and movement practices to support regulation and resilience
Trauma informed workshops for community groups and services - We collaborate with partners to bring DanceBeyond into safe spaces across Essex.
Who is DanceBeyond for?
This programme is designed for:
Women recovering from domestic abuse
Survivors of narcissistic or emotionally abusive relationships
Anyone feeling disconnected from their body or sense of self
Those who feel overwhelmed by gyms, mainstream dance, or high intensity exercise
No dance experience is needed. Just come as you are.
Why it works?
Our trauma informed approach supports:
Reconnection with your body in a safe, supported way
Release of stored tension and trauma
Building self-trust, confidence, and connection
A sense of empowerment and control through choice-led movement
DanceBeyond classes are led by trained trauma-informed facilitators with lived experience. We know how hard it can be to walk through the door - and we’ll meet you exactly where you are.
Want to join us?
If you’re ready to take the next step in your healing journey, we’d love to welcome you.
Explore our current trauma informed classes and workshops in Colchester and across Essex & Suffolk by visiting our RISE: Survivor Steps page, or getting in touch to discuss how we can bring DanceBeyond to your organisation or group.
“Movement helped me reconnect with myself in a way I could never have imagined possible. Every session helped me let go of fear, rebuild my confidence and feel more like ‘me’ again”
— Hannah
Physical and Emotional Wellness
Trauma affects both the mind and body, leaving behind tension, stress, and a sense of disconnection. DanceByond is designed to help you gently release weight, using movement as a powerful tool for healing. Science shows that dance lowers cortisol (the stress hormone), boosts endorphins (your brain’s natural feel-good chemicals), and improves body awareness - helping you feel more present, in control, and confident.
In this class, you’ll reconnect with yourself in a safe, supportive space. You’ll move in ways that feel good for you, rebuilding trust in your body, releasing stored emotions, and discovering a sense of freedom that words alone can’t provide. No pressure, no expectations - just a chance to breathe, move and rediscover your strength.
EMPOWERMENT
Reconnect with your body, express yourself freely and build confidence through movement.
GROUNDING AND MINDFULNESS
Stay present in your body, feel more in control, and find a sense of calm
FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION
Dance allows you to release tension, process emotions, and express yourself beyond words
TRUST AND CONNECTION
Move in a safe space, rebuild self-trust and feel supported within a like-minded community
STRESS RELIEF
Movement reduces stress, eases anxiety, and boost your mood naturally
RESILIENCE & INNER STRENGTH
Challenge yourself, build confidence and discover your inner strength through movement
Class Structure
No dance experience? No problem. This class is about movement that feels good - not getting the steps right. Whether you’re looking to release stress, reconnect with yourself, or just try something new, you’ll be guided every step of the way in a safe, supportive space.
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Step into a calming space. Gentle breathing exercises and guides relaxation help you leave the outside world behind and feel present in your body.
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Ease into movement with slow, flowing exercises designed to loosen tension, improve mobility, and connect you to the rhythm.
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Through guided sequences and improvisation, you’ll move freely, exploring what feels good for your body. This is your time to release, express and enjoy
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Energy rises with dynamic movement sequences designed to challenge, strengthen and uplift. You’ll find confidence in your movements, leaving doubts behind
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Gentle stretches and mindful breathing bring you back to stillness. A moment to reflect, reset and leave feeling lighter, stronger, and more in tune with yourself
FAQs
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Trauma informed movement is a gentle, choice-led approach to movement and dance that recognises and respects how trauma affects the body.
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Absolutely not. DanceBeyond is for every body - no rhythm, coordination, or past experience required.
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This is not about burning calories or achieving fitness goals. It’s about reconnecting with yourself, gently moving stuck emotions, and finding your power again.
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Yes. Many of us minimise or question our experiences. If you’ve ever felt unsafe, controlled, or silenced in a relationship - this space is for you.
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The aftercare programme is designed to support survivors of domestic abuse beyond the initial stages of recovery helping them rebuild confidence, independence and resilience.
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This programme is for women who have already completed a domestic abuse recovery programme (such as RISE, or the Freedom programme) and are looking for continued support in their journey.
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Emotional and mental well-being support
Confidence-building through movement and dance
Peer support groups
Access to workshops on personal growth, career and independence
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While RISE is beneficial, it is not a requirement. The programme is open to anyone who has taken steps toward recovery and would like to join a community of like-minded women.
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We aim to continue to offer weekly sessions inside term timetable
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You can register through The Dandelion Project website or contact the team directly for more details.
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Some aspects of the programme may be funded, but there may be costs associate with certain workshops or sessions. Financial support options may be available so please do not let finance be a barrier to you reaching out to find out more.
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We can help connect you with additional services, including counselling, legal advice and further personal development programmes.
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You can join our network to volunteer to support other survivors, or participate in community events and workshops.
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YES! If you know someone who could benefit from ongoing support, please direct them to our website, or contact our team.
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The term survivor is used to describe someone who is currently navigating or has completed the recovery process. We choose this word instead of victim to acknowledge and honour the ongoing strength and resilience of those who have endured abuse.
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Recovery has no set timeline - each journey is unique. It may take months, years, or even decades to heal. In some cases, the impact of an abusive relationship can be so profound that full recovery may not be possible. However, psychological support can help ease the pain and facilitate the healing process.
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Emotional support - avoid judging their choices or making them feel guilty for their decisions. Recognize that you cannot "rescue" them—their life decisions are theirs to make. Refrain from speaking negatively about their abusive partner. Instead, focus on supporting them and assisting in the creation of a safety plan.
