In our dancing we spend a great deal of time working on and talking about the activity of the body. We refer to holding tone, energy in opposition and maintaining our frame. And then we say relax. This seemingly contradictory approach reveals the importance of understanding the way in which we must be active rather than the usual habit of simply trying harder and harder which can result in unwanted tension and discomfort.
When we consider our dance frame we are usually thinking about our arms. While it is true that it is through the arms and hands that we make contact with our partner, it is a misguided notion that the arms and hands have to be very active in order to connect or relate to your partner.
The easy answer and only partial answer is that we activate the core or center muscles of the body in order to relate to our partner. It is true that core or center engagement is necessary, as is the contact and slight engagement through the arms and hands. One of the most overlooked engagements and the one that will make the biggest difference is the activity through the back, particularly the lateral muscles.
It is through the engagement of your back that you can be both active and relaxed. If your back is active you can allow the joints in the arms and hands to be released and have a softer and more effective relationship to your own center and your partner.
The great attention we give to the activity and lift of our body is not misplaced, we just need to temper the activity with release and relax. When we achieve balance in these two opposite activities our dancing is fuller and more elastic while still being completely connected to your partner.
Lawrence is a teacher at Dance Station. If you would like to take lessons with Lawrence or any of our teachers, call 505-989-9788 to schedule.
