Ladies, when was the last time you moved—not just from your desk to the fridge, but really moved? The kind of movement that makes you feel alive, powerful, and a little bit unstoppable? If your answer falls somewhere between “too long ago” and “never,” then Essence Movement Co. is about to change that.
Founded in December 2023 by Renzi Tabotabo, Louise Torres, and Regine Rago, Essence Movement Co. has become a movement, a sisterhood, and a stage where women trade hesitation for expression.
“We create a community that advocates wellness and body positivity—how women celebrate their bodies through movement and dance.”
It’s where hips sway, heels click, and self-doubt gets left at the door. The goal? To give women a space to reconnect with their bodies, tap into their sensuality, and most importantly, have fun doing it.
Move Freely, Express Boldly: A Space Just for You
For many women, movement takes a backseat to the daily grind.
“Most women, because of their busy daily lives, have forgotten to reclaim their power,” Renzi shares. “[We wanted] to create a space where they can embrace their femininity without judgment.”
Between work, responsibilities, and the mental gymnastics of keeping it all together, self-expression can feel like a luxury. Essence Movement Co. is here to remind you: your body isn’t just for existing—it’s for celebrating.
This isn’t about perfecting a pirouette or nailing a TikTok trend. It’s about owning your power, whether that means channeling your inner Shakira in a belly dancing class or strutting with confidence in heels and chair choreography. Never danced before? That’s totally fine. The classes are designed for all skill levels, with zero judgment and all the encouragement.
What’s on the Menu? (Hint: Confidence, Strength, and a Side of Sass)
Essence Movement Co. offers a variety of classes, each designed to unlock a different side of you:
- Wake and Shake – A toning class that strengthens and sculpts, because feeling good starts from the inside out.
- Belly Dancing – Move like a queen and embrace your femininity with fluid, hypnotic motions.
- Bachata Lady Styling – No partner? No problem. This class teaches smooth footwork and sultry moves so you can own the dance floor solo.
- Heels and Chair – Confidence, sensuality, and a whole lot of fun. This class is all about taking up space and feeling good doing it.
- Floorwork – A fusion of grace and power, using the floor as your dance partner.
- Leg Fundamentals – Strong legs, strong presence. Learn how to engage your muscles for sharper, more intentional movements.
And for those who like to mix it up, pop-up classes bring even more variety with beginner-friendly hip-hop, dancehall, breakdancing, and a basic femme class.
From Awkward to Absolutely Owning It
Many students walk in feeling unsure, hesitant, maybe even a little stiff. But something magical happens when the music starts. Limbs loosen, smiles widen, and by the end of class, they’re watching themselves in the mirror thinking, Wait—I did that?!
“That’s what makes them want to come back,” shares Lera Lape, the studio’s assistant director and marketing head. “Most of our students aren’t dancers. They’re working moms, single moms—women who, at first, feel a little awkward and self-conscious.”
But something shifts when they see themselves in action. “When you see yourself in the videos [you take], what your body can do that you thought you couldn’t do. It’s very liberating,” Lera adds.
That’s the magic of movement. It’s not just about learning steps; it’s about seeing yourself in a whole new way—what your body is capable of when you let go of self-doubt.
Ready to Dance? Here’s How
Essence Movement Co. hosts classes twice a month, with schedules posted on their Facebook and Instagram. Private classes are also available for those who want a more personalized experience. If you’ve been looking for a sign to finally do something just for you—this is it.
Follow them on Facebook and Instagram @essencemovementco and get ready to move, groove, and rediscover the power of your own body. Because every woman deserves to feel like the main character in her own story—especially when there’s a killer soundtrack playing in the background.
Photography Kyrra Kho | Location a& Dance Studio
