'The Social Dancing Paradox—Beyond the Obligation'
This episode tackles the highly requested and emotionally charged topic of social dancing expectations and duties. Gui and I, joined by Paloma Alves, dive into why it's so hard to "just be yourself" on the dance floor and how the pressure to perform conflicts with authentic connection.
The Pressure to Perform
We discuss the core anxieties: Paloma shares her journey to discard the "teacher label" to reconnect with the pure pleasure of being a human dancer. She emphasizes that trying to avoid looking bad often compromises your own enjoyment and physical boundaries. The problem is widespread: students, too, feel they are performing a role instead of being authentic.
Finding Authenticity and Boundaries
The key to a healthier social dance life is recognizing and honoring personal needs:
Separating the Role from the Person: Gui maintains distinct "teacher mode" and "social dance mode" to ensure he is fully present. When the body is tired, dancing becomes an obligation, not a pleasure.
Listen to Your Body: Paloma shares a vulnerable moment where she chose to take a pause rather than forcing herself to continue, emphasizing that you must take care of your needs first.
The Power of Conversation: A simple conversation can reveal hidden context (like injury or trauma) that changes your entire perception of a dancer's behavior, urging us to be less judgmental.
Ultimately, we urge dancers to choose to participate in the community from a place of desire rather than a sense of obligation.
___________
Do you struggle with the obligation to dance when you're tired?
What is one "should" you can let go of to be more authentic on the dance floor?
Share your thoughts and join the conversation!