So what is Duende?

du·​en·​de | \ dü-ˈen-(ˌ)dā \ : inexplicable yet unmistakable soul, expression and authenticity.

There are several English definitions of ‘duende’, but this one is my current favorite. In order to really explain why I’ve named my coaching business Duende however, I think a visual is necessary.

My first brush with the word ‘duende’ was in my high school flamenco class. I went to a performing arts school and majored in dance so yes, my days were spent frolicking in leotards and tights with some math and science classes sprinkled in. Duende, as my flamenco instructor described it, was this ultimate state of being. A goal that all dancers should reach for, where you inner-most self came out and amazed others so much you couldn’t even put words to it. 

It was such a hypnotizing concept. That something that felt that good inside was so powerful that it emanated outwards enough to overcome others. Isn’t that what we’re all looking for? That passion and uniqueness that can’t be replicated. 

My goal at Duende is for womxn to realize that we all have duende, and that finding that duende is what keeps you up at night and nags at you to feed it. It’s your life-long job to find it, experience it, indulge it and nurture it, because that indescribable feeling of perfect bliss once experience is addictive.

One of my favorite examples of ‘duende’ is Concha Buika, a badass Spanish singer.

Her voice is otherworldly!

If you’d like to explore finding your duende, email me for an intro coaching session! I’d also love to see your examples of duende. Follow us on IG below, tag us and use the #myduende to share yours! Lots of love and see you on the other side of 2020. 

Xo,

-D