Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Louis.
Hi Danielle, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My name is Danielle Hafiz Louis, and I am 46 years young, a wife & mother of two boys who have been dancing all my life. Started with Traditional West African dance as a child, which catapulted me into training in various dance styles. People have always been captivated while watching me dance, so I decided to create a dance fitness program to allow others to dance with me. I started this because I saw a need for a safe place for people to be free enough to be themselves, however that shows up. It’s been proven that dance can be a wonderful form of healing therapy. I would like to think of myself as a dance therapist who ushers people out of their comfort zones & into movements that are freeing and can relieve them of their everyday stresses, even if for the moment. Women & men would constantly approach me and say I make them feel so comfortable in their skin. I wanted to create a safe space for people to learn about their bodies and the amazing capabilities they didn’t know they had, regardless of age. I am constantly reminded of how my services impact the community by the countless people who tell me how I have changed their lives for the better.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t been the smoothest road for me. I have had to go through harsh criticisms from industry peers, saying I am too much and I need to dial myself down to accommodate more people. So this made me question my self-worth and why can’t I just be less for everyone else’s comfort. I made the self-affirming decision to be as much as I am, and the right people will gravitate to me. No longer dimming my light for others. It has been so freeing and rewarding to myself and others who support me.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I created my own dance fitness service called CardioVibes® – is a service that offers an exceptional way of learning new dance moves and getting into shape at the same time. It offers a combination of low-impact, high-intensity, and weight-bearing moves. You’ll learn how to dance and get stronger through our classes. In this all-inclusive environment, you will be surrounded by positive and encouraging energy. These classes explore the basics of various genres as well as challenge those with a dance background. It is a well-orchestrated and wonderful balancing act to give each individual what they need from the classes. My overall goal is to make you feel confident, empowered, and free to be yourself in a judgment-free atmosphere and have lots of fun while gaining the most invigorating experience!
I am most proud of the adversities I’ve overcome by moving to Delaware knowing no one and creating this community of healing through dance. I’ve forged some beautiful lasting relationships in this journey.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory was helping my mom deliver my baby brother in the house in the middle of a storm. I was 5yrs old and helped her gather supplies and deliver him on the bed. He was born happy and healthy, 10 mins before the ambulance was able to arrive.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.CardioVibes.com
- Instagram: @cardiovibes
- Facebook: @CardioVibes
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuADPRxBBVM7bemgGzjDbmA
Image Credits
Dancing pic in pink – photo credit Foluso Mimy
