| About Body Art by Michelle |
| Michelle Dawson is an outstanding Henna Artist drenched in both knowledge and experience. Body Art By Michelle is the result of her long time study of Indian art and philosophy and the culmination of the two services she offers: Henna and Yoga. The art of Henna or Mehndi was used to celebrate many different occasions; this mystical shrub plant was thought of as a symbol of good luck and great fortune and therefore, it was used to evoke such prosperous beginnings. Henna has played a major role in Indian weddings. The painting of the bride was and still is a wonderful ritualistic event that can last for many days. It is very beautiful to imagine the prayer and intention that goes into every line and each design. The sisters and friends and a long list of female lineage gather to paint the bride and during this sacred time, they share stories and blessings and an unconditional belief that the henna would assist in her passage. Certain folklore suggests, the darker the stain of the Henna, the longer and more happy the marriage was to be. In Morocco, pregnant women were painted during their third trimester to facilitate a lucky and safe birth. Once born, the baby was painted in order to promise beauty and good fortune. Henna is a plant that helps to ensure happiness. If you let go into the mystery, you just may feel this ancient and supernatural force. It is important to remember that your Henna must be all natural and fresh and she who applies your henna ~or the hannayas~ must be a woman who is happy also, for it is she who helps to transmit this sacred plant energy. Michelle Dawson's innate ability to transmit specific sacred energies is quite obvious through her divine connection to Henna as well as Yoga. Her understanding of Vedic Art through Mehndi, birthed in her a natural inclination toward the practice and articulation of Yoga. Thus , the creation of Body Art By Michelle. As an instructor, Michelle strives to be a consummate student of Yoga and Eastern philosophy. She brings to class passion and grace, encouraging students to push the boundaries of their own practice. With a teaching style enriched with experience and study, Michelle's students marvel in her invigorating, uplifting, and balanced approach to Yoga. Yoga and Henna are direct links to ancient mysticism. And while Michelle Dawson's beliefs are traditional, her articulation of both sacred art forms is modern and quite rebellious. |