The experience of meaning in circle dance

Circle dance, which derives from the tradition of folk dances, is popular and practiced worldwide. This article explores the meanings that participants of circle dance attribute to it. This qualitative research was part of a larger doctoral study in which thirty nine in-depth interviews with participants, teachers and coordinators of teacher training programmes from the circle dance network in the United Kingdom (U.K.) were undertaken. Applying a constructivist grounded theory approach, major categories, representing respectively the experiences of circle dance participants, teachers and coordinators, were developed. This article will specifically focus on the first major category, termed "I can't imagine life without it" related to the experience of twenty two participants and the meanings they attribute to circle dance. From an occupational science perspective, this study provides an in-depth exploration of how participants realise a sense of meaning and satisfaction through engagement in circle dance and the potential contribution of this occupation to well-being.