The Rhythm Moves Us

Every living being and entity around us has a natural rhythm. Rhythm can be heard in the waves of the ocean, the trills of songbirds, trees swaying in the wind, and the pitter-patter of rain on the roof. Rhythm can be felt in the changing seasons, the phases of the moon, the rhythmic patterns of energy between two people or a group, and in the inhale and exhale of our breaths. Rhythm, a pattern of sound, can be found in our bodies in the current of energy flowing through our veins, and in our heartbeats, our bodies’ steady metronome pulsing life. It’s no wonder then, that rhythm moves us so deeply and profoundly.

Rhythm moves us socially, and connects us to the larger community. The pulsating energy of a crowd on the dance floor, a concert, or a rally is palpable, and can make us feel connected to something larger than ourselves, and remind us that we’re not alone. That’s what dance has done for me, especially this past year. Whether online or in person, the feeling of being connected to others and to my own body and sense of aliveness is real, and has been a lifeline as well as a sense of nourishment in a time of physical distance and isolation.

Spiritually and emotionally, songs and other patterns of sound can provoke memories, invoke a sense of calm and release, and bring us to tears. Our natural rhythms can be thrown off balance by traumatic experiences, societal events, recurrent stressors, disconnection to others, irregular sleep patterns, and even the phases of the moon. While these experiences can be unsettling, feeling unsteady is a beautiful invitation to look inward, a sign that change is needed to restore equilibrium. How wonderful that rhythm, in all its forms, can be moved and transformed, time and time again. What a beautiful gift that is.

How have you been moved by the music? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!

Check out the Kitchen Grooves playlist here! 🎶