Most of the leading techniques (excluding mirroring and other crazy stuff, without body contact) are based on a TOUCH.
It’s a powerful tool not only in dancing but in general in human interactions. Moreover, science shows that a touch is beyond just an enhancer of our life quality. Touch is vital. Babies who are not held in arms, despite good nutrition, will stop growing and die!
On the dance floor, we tend to put so much focus on the steps, figures, music, show off… and we leave very little room to think about the touch…
For people who already dance it comes so natural, that they even don’t wonder about it, it’s automatic. It’s so beautiful to see someone on the dance class for their very first time, to see big question on their face: ‘HOW?’. How to touch. How to hold. How to lead.
Just a touch is not a lead yet, but it is the essence. Touch is the smallest particular of social dance.
The devil is in the detail.
What can we do to improve?
There is no improvement without, first of all understanding. Secondly, willing to improve. Attend dance classes, ask for the feedback your dance partners. Practice regularly!
Tip:
Try to understand the information you are providing for the other person, within a simple touch. What kind of touch characterize you and your dance?
Every touch is different.
Think about its attributes in a dancing context:
Pressure
Strength
Direction
Consistency
Impulsiveness
Length of time
Musicality expression
Connection with breathing
Structure of human anatomy and it’s use (bones, muscles, joints)
I am in love with the beauty of simple touch.
And how do you think, how important in dancing is the touch?
Photography: Shaun Spiteri Photography