Parks, playgrounds and sidewalks: Winnipeg dancer gets her outdoor groove on

CBC Manitoba's Creator Network asked local artists to imagine their happy place as we head toward the one-year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. This is the first of many projects we will share in the coming weeks.

Maribeth(Kilusan)Tabanera

My happy place these days is self care and connecting with community through my artistic practice and my work as an educator. As a creator, this year has led me to innovate in ways that have been challenging, rewardingand eye-opening.

Over the past year I have been developing a self-movement practice. Before the pandemic, I believed my schedule to be too full, or maybe I was too tired, but it was most likely a mixture of both.

I've spent many days dancing alone in my home and outside in parks. I developed a new relationship with the outdoors as well as with my neighbours. The combination of fresh air, loud musicand passing smiling faces brought a sense of joy that I really needed.

As the darkness came earlier, nights grew colderand lockdown restriction became tighter,I had to find a new space to connect with dancers and fellow music enthusiasts.

Since October, I've been hosting and DJing weekly Sunday Dance Sessions on a video chat platform and on my social media feed. Being able to have a shared experience with my loved ones will always be a happy place for me, so I feel blessed to be able to host an event, even if it is just virtually for now.

Since going back to work in September as a teacher, I can honestly say this has been the my most challenging year.

Everything has changed, and continues to change every day. The instability and fear sometimes becomes overwhelming.

However, when I remember to be mindful and present, I become a witness to the innovative work my colleagues, students, families and community members are doing despite our circumstances.

It is truly inspiring and it gives me hope for the future.

I truly wish my community wellness and joy during these times. I can't wait to see all of your beautiful faces again.