But in September 2022, Marcela took an important step towards a significant change in her life when she started attending Rabaterapia classes. For her, this decision represented much more than just learning dance steps; it was the discovery of a refuge where she could connect with Brazilian culture and find a welcoming community in these icy lands. She also highlights the flexibility and adaptability of the classes, which offer a balance between technique and fun: "What I love most about Raba is how it adapts to what you want. Whether it's fun, technique or relaxation, there's a class for everyone“. 

One thing we talk about a lot is how our classes are adapted so that they are accessible to all levels of experience, and Ma told us how important this was for her: "I started out very sedentary... Guilherme, the teacher who sees me the most, has such a good command of the choreography that sometimes he changes a few things to make it accessible to everyone!"I thought it was very funny that Ma talked about this, because, for those who don't know, I (Priscila Sanches) am the "persona" of Rabaterapia: a person who likes to dance, who has always wanted to learn, but who has never succeeded, precisely because there is this hierarchy within dance studios. In Brazil, not so much, but here in Montreal it's very difficult to find a studio that gives more importance to fun than to perfectionism. Zero my vibe! 👀

I asked Ma if she had any memorable moments in our classes, and she told us about the final stretch in her first class at Raba. "I cried my eyes out", she recalls, highlighting how the music and the judgment-free environment offered a significant emotional refuge for her. "Gui always makes this moment after class with a song that touches us. On that day, when I got the courage from I don't know where, because I was going through a process of depression, he put on the song Amarelo, Azul e Branco, and I remember this part of the song a lot: "I came to show you. The strength I have in me. My chest is wide open and I'm not afraid, I'm not afraid. I sing to live. I live what I sing. My voice is my empire. My protection". I cried my eyes out... and that's how I understood that Raba wouldn't just be a dance school for me!”

[I'm going to interrupt the interview to share something personal with you. What Ma described here is exactly what makes us believe in the Rabaterapia project so much. Anyone who has been following me on social media for longer knows how much I've always liked to help, to welcome... but in fact, even though I receive messages every day saying how much my content on immigration/Canada has helped, I've never been able to physically witness this transformative power that ALL OF US have in each other's lives. And now I have the pleasure of seeing it every day! Talk about a dream job! I love it too much! But back to Marcela... ahahahah]

Ma also told us how Raba helped her expand her social circle, creating meaningful connections and finding a family of Brazilians in Canada. "Almost magically, people are welcoming new people who are arriving for the first time. It's a wonderful chain of good". In addition, Ma told us a little about how dancing has helped her physical and mental health: "Physically, a lot has changed... Mentally, I feel much safer; dancing has helped me, and is helping me, in a process of self-knowledge, self-acceptance and empowerment." And the coolest thing of all is that the people who attend Raba are witnesses to this! Anyone who remembers Ma in the corner (always asking me not to film) would imagine that she would even be taking part in recording our videos for Youtube? 

Look how wonderful!

For those thinking of joining Rabatherapy, Ma advises: "SJust go, enjoy the class at your own pace. Exchange with people during the class and if you have a little time, stay afterwards, interact with the queens on social media and find your crowd..” 

It's incredible to see how dance is not just a physical activity, but a means of self-expression and empowerment - and for the people of Montreal there's an added plus, which is the connection with a welcoming community! 🥹 If you're here, migx, boraaaa! As you know, Rabaterapia is more than a dance school; it's a space where everyone can find a sense of belonging and celebrate Brazilian culture, even when they're far from home! It's our little piece of Brazil in Canada! 

And for those who aren't, don't be sad! I'm sure there's a dance studio near you. Seriously, go for it! If I'd known how much dancing for an hour or two a week would benefit so many aspects of my life, I'd have started sooner!

Take a look at Ma's energy enjoying the choreography of Musa do Verão:

And finally, a little message for you, Ma:

We want you to know that your presence lights up our classes and your journey is a constant source of inspiration for us! You teach us about resilience, joy and the power of being a strong and empowered woman.

It's beautiful when you realize that your own company is truly rewarding - and that's what you've discovered in recent years. You no longer feel the need to convince anyone what a great woman you are, and you don't care if someone doesn't recognize that. YOU KNOW IT'S. I can see from afar how much you value your time, your own company, your love and your worth... It's beautiful to see how you've become your own best friend, and the protagonist of your own story! You are a living example of the positive impact that dance (and a bunch of crazy people who like to shake their butts) can have on our lives!

Know that your support and collaboration in our ideas and projects helps us to continue impacting the lives of more and more women who today feel like Marcela la in September 2022. So thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being part of our Rabas family! 

Much love, Pri and Gui!