Our host, Chara, embodies a transformative healing journey that highlights the profound impact of dance and resilience.

In 2011, she set out on a brave adventure, moving from Taiwan to Melbourne with a heart full of dreams and a passion for dance. At 24, she immersed herself in the vibrant world of Latin dancing, competing and performing with an exuberant spirit. By night, she dazzled as a showgirl, living a life of rhythm and grace. Yet, her world took an unexpected turn in 2015 when injuries and the demands of studying led her to step away from her beloved dance.

The year 2020 brought a storm of challenges. Amid a global pandemic, the hardship from the long-term relationship, career uncertainties, and health struggles, Chara was adrift in a sea of despair. It was in this crucible of chaos that she turned back to dance, not as a performer but as a healer for her wounded soul. With mindful movement and dance practice, she began to reclaim her sense of self and control, finding solace and strength through her body’s expressive language.

This newfound inner strength gave Chara the courage to leave an abusive relationship in 2022. Her journey of healing led her to a realization: To heal from the trauma and integrate as a whole, we need to create a deep connection between our body, emotions, and psychological well-being. Driven by this insight, she pursued a path of studying emotions, body language, and the therapeutic power of dance movement.

Today, Chara resides in the serene countryside of Kinglake, Victoria, where she is creating a sanctuary of healing—a studio set amidst the farmland, where she continues personal and professional growth. Her experiences and the kindness she received have ignited a desire to give back.

Thus, the Creative Movement Circle was born. This wellness studio is a beacon of hope, designed to expand body language and gain body awareness through mindful movement. Each event is a carefully crafted blend of Dance Movement Therapy methods, incorporating talking, sensing, moving, journaling, and creative expression through art and sound. Chara’s mission is to highlight the crucial role of emotional literacy and body awareness. These are often overlooked factors that can prevent domestic violence and improve mental health.

Chara believes in the inherent healing potential within each individual and the significant benefits of nurturing our well-being through body movement.

Chara is a Dance Movement Therapy trainee in the second year and will graduate from her studies in mid-year 2025. Besides DMT, she also regularly practices Mediation, 5 Rhythms, Fusion Belly dance and Brazilian Zouk dance.