Etienne MacCormack

My name is Etienne but my Capoeira family refer to me as Dourado. My journey with capoeira started at age eleven here in Flagstaff which is where I am from. My relationship with Capoeira has allowed me to travel to Brazil, Spain, and Mexico; meeting all types of beautiful people whom accept you as if you were extended family. One of the experiences I hold onto most dearly was during my journey to Mexico. Although I myself do not speak Spanish or Portuguese(the universal language for Capoeira), I still felt like I shared incredibly complex interactions with fellow practitioners of the art. During the moments in which I was most receptive of Capoeira at its essence, I felt the gravity of being a part of something much greater then any individual. Tapping into a vast understanding and meaning to life. Being human as I am, it’s difficult to maintain a constant connection with the ocean of information that Capoeira can be and it’s ok to fall back to the stream of reasoning of why I continue to practice Capoeira; which is to exist outside of my chaotic thoughts and be present within my body. To move beautifully, to feel physical, and to be a part of an open minded global community is what anybody at any level of Capoeira should remind themselves when motivation is lacking. The euphoric sensations of the practice will come.

-Etienne MacCormack