When former CPS Occupational Therapist, Denise Williams, retired in 2019, she planned for a retirement filled with activities that stimulated her mind and body. Denise envisioned daily visits to the health club, dance classes, and teaching her “Holistic Hoop,” classes at various events. However, the unforeseen challenges of the pandemic caused Denise to reevaluate her plans.
“So much changed in my life during COVID-19 and that was shocking to me. The social isolation and fear-based responses to daily medical updates forced me to create a new rhythm,” said Denise.
Instead of letting circumstances dampen her spirits, Denise embraced creativity as a means of self-expression and connection. She used social media to share her passion for hula hooping with the world. Through weekly sessions titled “Hoop in Place/Shelter in Place,” she demonstrated therapeutic, wellness, and artistic aspects of weighted hoop dancing.