Hula hooping is an art that demands both physical strength and remarkable flexibility, often appealing more to girls who typically exhibit greater agility. In this feature, we explore the captivating journey of Sheena D’Cunha, a talented hula hoop artist and trainer who, at just 18, had the honor of representing Goa during the Republic Day celebrations in Delhi. The Incredible Goa team recently had the opportunity to sit down with Sheena and unveil the secrets behind her success.
For those less familiar, the hula hoop is a simple yet versatile tool, traditionally made of plastic, that can be twirled rhythmically around the body, primarily the waist. Originating in the 1950s as a children’s toy, it has since evolved into a popular activity embraced by people of all ages. Whether used for dance, fitness, or creative performances, the hula hoop continues to charm enthusiasts with its ability to promote movement and coordination.
Sheena’s journey began at Mary Immaculate School before she pursued her higher education at St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa. Reflecting on her remarkable career, she fondly recalls her opportunity to showcase her talent on the grand stage of the Republic Day parade in Delhi, an achievement made possible through her involvement with the National Cadet Corps (NCC).
Her love for hula hooping ignited at the age of 4, inspired by a heartfelt gift from her mother. Guided by her mother’s patient instruction, Sheena learned the intricacies of the hoop, experiencing a sense of joy that would fuel her passion for years to come. By age 11, she clinched 1st place in the prestigious “Goa’s Got Talent” contest, establishing herself as a rising star in the hula-hooping community.
This victory opened doors to numerous opportunities, allowing her to perform at various events and explore other artistic pursuits such as skating and gymnastics. However, it was during the isolating challenges of the 2020 lockdown that Sheena rediscovered her love for hula hooping. The discipline became a source of solace and purpose, offering fulfillment amid uncertainty.
As Sheena matured, her relationship with hula hooping deepened. “While my mother initiated my journey, my growth became a self-driven endeavor. Hula hooping became integral to my identity,” she shares. Through countless hours of practice, she cultivated patience and resilience, finding harmony between mind, body, and spirit in the rhythmic flow of movement.
One of the greatest challenges she faced was sourcing the right hula hoop. “In India, finding suitable hoops for advanced techniques was nearly impossible. After much trial and error, I crafted my own ‘imperfectly perfect’ hoop. This eventually led to the launch of my hoop brand, which now boasts over 10,000 satisfied customers globally,” she explains.
At 17, Sheena set out to make a lasting impact, culminating in a world record documented in the Harvard Book of World Records. She achieved the remarkable feat of performing the most simultaneous hula hoop rotations on both her hair bun and waist within three minutes. This accomplishment not only brought her recognition in Goa but also provided a platform for her to share her passion. She has since conducted workshops across schools in Goa, spreading the joy of hula hooping.
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