Chris is one of my best friends, maybe more like a brother. He introduced Lauren and I to spinning and actually reintroduced us to the outdoors. I’d also say the reason I’ve tried to incorporate so much tech stuff into my hooping was because for the first year I hooped, Chris was there nearly every time I hooped throwin down beautiful dance with sick technical moves. Lauren thinks when I’m at my best I move a little like Chris and I’d say that’s probably true. This performance was perfect!
I’ve rarely seen a staff of poi performer who incorporated so many technical moves while making it accessible for the audience. You often see high brow tech spinners who spin for other spinners, or dumbed down spinning for the audience. It’s a thing of beauty when someone can do both and my highest aspiration.
Lauren, Christabel and I just returned back to the bay after a journey into the majestic Sierra mountains along the Feather River for the False Profit Priceless Campout. This somewhat spontaneous adventure presented surprises we hadn’t quite expected. The Belden Town resort was a perfect venue. We spent the weekend floating in the river, listening to good music, and spinning. I’m bubbling over with things to write while being so damn exhausted I know I won’t get them all out.
I spent a good portion of the weekend following the music and hooping. Sean and Prisna of Flow Toys, as always, wandered the festival weaving magic wherever they went. If you get a chance, Sean has written some inspiring theories about flow here.
I also was able to spend some time spinning with Banyan, who is quite possibly my favorite staff spinner. Saturday night while wandering back to camp I stumbled upon him spinning double staff at the chill stage. I can still hear the song in my head (which I’m stoked that I was just able to find, Slidecamp by Comma & Boretta). It was one of those rare moments watching someone spin where I nearly cried. It was as if he had direct access to a powerful source. Being the non spiritual person that I am, that’s a strange thing to hear myself say. Every move was an intimate expression of the song. I’ve seen few moments that rivaled this as inspiration for my personal practice.
I also had some great moments watching Christabel hoop and had a wonderful time getting to connect with her throughout the weekend. This was probably the most time we’ve spent together and I feel honored to have had her join Lauren and I on this adventure. I’m excited that she’s coming to Movement Play too! Jasmine is coming down and I’ll finally get to meet Dawn.
(If you don’t get to watch this whole video, skip to 5:50)
