There are things that make me happy, and then there's salsa

Oh you guys… As I was folding in the Oreo cookies into my cheesecake batter, I started contemplating about the things I like to do. Baking or cooking is one of them. Crocheting is another. Walking - one of the favourites (I’m talking about loooong walks, like, minimum 30km). Music - has been there my entire life (just counted that i’ve been singing for almost 30 years). I should write about it one day too.

But then one dark January night 2 and a half years ago I was converted into a dancer. And here we are today.

The introduction to this passion (?) happened when I just moved to Copenhagen. I basically crashed one girl’s birthday party. She didn’t allow anyone to bring extra friends so for the rest of the night I had to lie that we had been friends for ages. Oscar to the studio please (flips her hair as a celebrity). Joke’s on us because we do be the besties now. The birthday party happened to be in a dance studio, and of course everybody danced. So after a few drinks and a few basic steps, I was enrolling to the classes.

This is a cute story, Dovi, but so what?

SO WHAT?! First of all, please, we live for the stories and experiences. Second of all, this is how I accidentally fell in love with Salsa. For the music, for the fun, and for the feeling of freedom that it gives me. And I must say, now reflecting more about what it gave me, I can say that I improved as a person. So here's why you should also consider enrolling to the classes.

Benefit number 1 - community. Moving to Denmark has not been my first rodeo of changing countries. I knew that finding friends will require effort. One day I’ll talk about this as well. But enrolling into classes that early was a great idea. Everyone is new, no one knows how to dance. Supporting each other through that is a bonding experience. You also get to meet a lot of people in classes and in socials. You get to know them. And then you know even if you feel all alone, there will always be a familiar face on a dance floor for that relief moment.

Benefit number 2 - omg the best cardio. You dirty minded people, we won’t get there. But you understand me. Because the music is so wonderful, people are generally happy, I can dance for hours multiple days in a row. I mean, classes plus socials, plus workshops - a week full of joy! And you do sweat and work it. So yay!

Benefit number 3 - helps to let go. For the leaders, I know it's different. But for me as a follower salsa is a dance where I can completely let go. I let go and immerse myself into the music and the drama. As one of my teachers said, salsa is a theatre. And I love that. Imagine after a long day at work getting on a dance floor and just going through that drama of other people with the upbeat and happy music. Wow. Divine.

Benefit number 4 - teaches that rejection might not actually be personal. This one is difficult, especially the first few times in the socials. You’re insecure already and then someone refuses to dance with you. At some point you get used to that. Is it nice? No. Sometimes it still hurts. However, usually it’s not personal at all. Some people do need a break after many dances. Some people are insecure themselves. Some people do not want to dance with you. And it’s ok. Someone will say yes. It’s important not to give up. Continue enjoying yourself and practicing. Boom. At some point THEY WILL ALL WANT TO DANCE WITH YOU (evil laugh).

And there are so many more benefits. But as you grow as a dancer with your technique, you do get better communication skills, it becomes easier to small talk, you find your people, get to relax in a fun way, and stop overthinking. And all of that while making your legs look GORGEOUS. So again, just do it. Or find some other fun way to move that works for you. Whatever makes you truly happy babe!

So yeah, sometimes I forget how much that dark January night changed my rhythm - until I start folding in those Oreos and get into reflecting mode again :)

P.S. for all the bachata supporters, I do own a bodysuit now. I do occasionally do a dance or two. But let's not push it, ok?

Ok byeeee!