How I Found My Groove with Sooze and shared it!
I never imagined I’d become a Groove Facilitator.
Back in October 2023, I joined a Groove class with the wonderful Melanie, just looking to move, smile, and shake off the day. I wasn’t a dance teacher. I wasn’t even looking to become one. I was juggling a full-time job, a degree, family life, and walks with Molly the dog.
When Mel suggested I might train as a facilitator, my answer was simple:
No way!
I loved dancing, but leading? Teaching? That was someone else’s world.
But something must have sparked my interest. By January 2025, I felt that I wanted more Groove joy, more movement, more moments where people feel free to be their unique self. So I took the plunge. I signed up with the World Groove Movement for Facilitator training in March 25 and threw myself in, no perfect plan, just a big dose of courage and curiosity.
Soon after, I found the perfect venue: Preston Grange Community Centre. I committed to a start date in May 25. Groove with Sooze officially began… and I haven’t looked back!
The Groove Facilitator Journey Begins
Back in March, I threw myself into Groove Facilitator training, four Saturdays in a row, four hours each week, on Zoom with over 30 trainees from around the world. It was thrilling, exciting… and a little terrifying too!
There was homework, lots of dancing in my front room, and plenty of self-discovery. My neighbours asked if I was auditioning for Pan’s People 😄
To help me stay focused, I created an interest board, filled with my start date, venue details, contact info, my website… and photos from my own Groove journey so far. It was part vision, part motivation, and the essence of what Groove means to me.
✨ My very first Groove Truth?
No one cares what you look like – and if they do, it’s their problem!
World Groove Movement and now part of my everyday!
- Your way is the right way: There is no right or wrong way to dance in Groove, only your way.
- What others think of you is none of your business: Focus on your own experience and let go of self-consciousness.
- No one can do it for you: Take responsibility for your own movement and enjoyment.
- You should look different: Embrace your unique expression and celebrate your individuality.
- It's all just good ideas until you put it into practice: The real work is in the doing; get on the dance floor and experience it.
Key aspects of The World Groove Movement:
- Community: Groove fosters a supportive community where people connect through movement and shared experience.
- Freedom of expression: Participants are encouraged to express themselves authentically and without judgment.
- Joyful movement: The focus is on feeling good and having fun while dancing.
- Accessibility: No prior dance experience is needed, and anyone can participate.
- Global reach: The movement has spread to over 55 countries, with classes and online events available worldwide.
Thanks for all of your amazing support.
With the Groove Truths firmly in my heart, I began putting everything into practice and I wasn’t alone. I had the amazing support of family, Melanie, fellow Groovers as well as my brilliant sisters and friends who cheered me on every step of the way.
I practiced hard, ran weekly sessions and slowly found my confidence as a facilitator.
The moment I officially qualified? Pure joy!
Since then, I’ve continued to create a fresh playlist every week, always with a different vibe and always bringing an element of fun, laughter, and connection. Because that’s what Groove with Sooze is really all about: moving together, in our own unique way.
Spotlight: Little Ann
Groove with Sooze says
Ann aka "Little Ann", brings fun, energy, and a bright sparkle to every tune.
Groove Moments & Honest Reflections
"I've never been anywhere where I have never felt self-conscious before, I really enjoyed myself - thanks!"
“I’ve never done anything like this before… I felt on a high for so long afterwards — is that what magic mushrooms are like?!”
— A very happy first-time Groover 😄
One of my favourite moments recently! I was walking Molly in the Quarry when I got chatting with a lovely lady. We talked about life, dogs, and Groove and two weeks later, Christine walked into class saying, “Remember me?” I absolutely did!
She joined in, embraced the essence of Groove, and left smiling. She might even be back and that’s the magic of connection and a good dog walk!
Another neighbour came along with a friend. They joined in, gave it a go, and later kindly told me it wasn’t quite for them and that’s totally fine! Groove is about what feels good for you. Sometimes it clicks, sometimes it doesn’t, but the invitation is always open. 💃✨💃✨
"Who knew we could jump so high?"
"That's what Groove does, put a spring in your step!"
"The joy and freedom you get from Groove is unbelievable!"
This journey continues because of moments like these, wild highs, warm hellos, or even gentle goodbyes. Thanks for being part of the Groove.
Groove Goes Global… and Local Too! 🌍💃
Yesterday, (19th July) I hopped onto a Zoom call with over 100 Groove facilitators from around the world 26 countries! (if I counted right) And there we were: me and Melanie, proudly flying the flag for the North East of England! It was buzzing with energy, big smiles, and serious grooviness!
Being part of something so joyful, so global, and knowing we’re creating our own version right here with Groove with Sooze, it gave me that fizzy, tingly, “this-is-something-special” feeling.
So to everyone who’s ever danced with me, thank you! Whether you’re a regular, a one-time shaker, or a curious toe-tapper, you’re part of this magical mix. Groove really is for everyone, and I’m so glad we get to move, giggle, and shine together.