Lorene, you bring up several good points.  You are right that there is a difference in "intent" which makes dance and martial arts different in several dimensions but do not be so quick to dismiss the similarities.  It is true that the martial arts are, for the most part, the interaction of two conflicting entities.  Whether it is two opponents, or the defense against an individual (or individuals) that is intending to cause harm on another, or the inner demons that we all have to face (and sometimes outer demons but that is another discussion).  Dance on the other hand, when it is an interaction of two or more individuals in movement, it is movement WITH each other not AGAINST each other.  Though the movements may be similar in nature but the intent of movement make it different. 

BUT it is also true that much of the martial arts have been hidden in dance.  And there is a close relationship between dance and martial practice.  In both Indonesia and the Philippines (as well as other countries), martial training and practice of the arts were at one time forbidden, so the martial movements were formed into dances so they could be practice without the rule class knowing. Also African dance often emulates the movements of the African warrior.  The ancient Warrior Class of India (where Chinese Martial arts draws it direct roots to) practice what was called “Natas” which was a series of martial movements that would develop certain aspects of the martial nature and spirit.  I was once told that our Forms (Kata) should never be changed and practiced as one is taught because there is ancient spirits and energies that are associated with those movements and when done right those spirits and energies are called on.  Much the same way the ancient Natas were used.   That so called Freedom you find in dancing can (and will in time) by found in the practice of martial movements.  This may sound a bit goofy but I generally workout at the school on my lunch hours from work.  Often I am there by myself.  After training for about 30 minutes, I will sometimes brake into martial movements that are free in nature.  Sometimes on the wavemaster bag (which is not to stange) but sometimes I will just move through the room doing techniques fighting those “inner demons” which many look a little strange but Ialways close the door (for a number of reasons). 

So just keep training and walking the path.  What you are looking for will be found.

Zaijian,

george