Discovering the Joy of Samba No Pé from Brasil to Stockholm

Last fall, we had the chance to explore a vibrant and expressive dance style: Samba No Pé – literally “samba in the feet.” This style of samba became popular through Brazil’s famous Carnival and is considered the very essence of Brazilian culture. It's a celebration of history, cultural diversity, joy, and the strong sense of community that defines Brazil.

Our instructor, Paola Aparicio, is a dance teacher and personal trainer who has studied this rhythm in Brazil itself. She was patient, adaptable, and attentive to the needs of all the participants who joined the workshop, both in Odenplan and Tullinge.

Throughout the workshop, we immersed ourselves in the spirit of Carnival, starting with its infectious music. We worked on the basic elements of the dance, such as the intricate footwork and leg technique of the passistas (the Carnival dancers), hip movements, and eventually incorporated arms and hands to complete the full-body expression.

One of the things we loved most about Samba No Pé is that it's a dance you can do on your own – and it leaves plenty of room for improvisation and personal style, which makes it so much fun and freeing.

Enthusiastic workshop participants in Tullinge and Odenplan

The participants showed great curiosity, enthusiasm, and a genuine eagerness to learn. By the end of the workshop, we all had a newfound appreciation for the hard work and physical strength and skill of the passistas. And we felt it too! The next day, many shared that their calves were sore from all the movement – proof that we really gave it our all. Mission accomplished!