Social Dance From My Eyes.

Social dance is more than just a recreational activity; it is a universal language that connects people from different cultures and transcends linguistic barriers. From its inception, it has been a form of artistic and social expression, continually evolving to adapt to new generations. In this article, I will share my journey in the world of social dance, highlighting the techniques and benefits that make it such a powerful and rewarding activity.

What is Social Dance?

Social dance is a form of dance where partners interact and communicate through synchronized movements. Unlike competitive dances, social dance focuses on fun, connection, and improvisation. It is an inclusive activity that promotes social interaction and physical and emotional well-being.

Social dancing is much more than moving to the rhythm of the music; it's a unique experience of connection and expression. It’s the moment when two people, often strangers, meet on the dance floor to create something magical, spontaneous, and unique—like a conversation without words.

It’s about interpreting the music in real time, adapting not only to the rhythms and pauses but also to the energy and style of your partner. It’s learning to listen—not just to the music but to your partner—to create a flow that feels natural, authentic, and reflective of the moment.

For me, social dancing is a form of "body freestyle." Just like freestyle rap plays with rhymes and patterns, in social dancing, you play with movements and pauses, interpreting each musical phrase as if it were a line of poetry. It’s pure creativity and adaptation, improvisation born in the moment, rooted in everything you’ve learned and what you feel right then.

Social dancing goes beyond technique. It’s about community, a network of people sharing the same passion. Every dance is not just an opportunity to showcase your skills but to connect with someone on a deeper level, to transmit emotions, and to build memories that last far beyond the song.

This is why social dancing isn’t just about technique or steps—it’s a discipline that transforms you as a person. It teaches you how to communicate, trust, listen, and embrace the present, all while letting the music and your body do the rest.

My Start in Social Dance

I began my journey in social dance in 2009 when I started taking salsa classes at university. At first, I had no idea what social dance was; I just saw it as a fun way to pass the time. I participated in competitions and focused on performing shows and choreographies, without realizing the true essence of social dance.

Benefits of Social Dance

Social dance offers numerous benefits, both physical and mental:

- Improves physical fitness: Dancing is an excellent form of cardiovascular exercise.

- Encourages socialization: It is a great way to meet new people and form friendships.

- Reduces stress: Music and movement help release tension.

- Develops cognitive skills: Improvisation and synchronization improve memory and coordination.

Frustration and Rediscovery

For years, I immersed myself in the world of competitions. I viewed dance as a sport, where each year we competed with different groups. However, the pressure and competition began to affect me negatively. I felt frustrated and started losing my love for salsa and bachata. I taught classes, created choreographies, and participated in competitions, but I was not happy.

In 2019, I decided to leave Chile and seek something different in my life. The first thing I did upon arriving in New Zealand was go dancing, and there I rediscovered my love for social dance. It was incredibly easy to connect with people from different cultures through dance. I realized the power of this activity and how, despite language barriers, we could communicate through dance.

Types of Social Dance

- Salsa: Known for its energetic rhythm and fast movements.

- Bachata: Characterized by its sensual steps and smooth movements.

- Kizomba: An intimate and fluid dance originating from Angola.

- Tango: A passionate and dramatic dance requiring a strong connection between dancers.

Social Dance as a Universal Language

Dancing with people from different cultures without even being able to speak the same language made me reflect on the nature of social dance. It is a universal language that allows deep and meaningful communication without the need for words. This realization led me to develop exclusive techniques for social dance, applicable to any style of partner dance.

Teaching and Promoting Social Dance

Today, I am starting my social dance classes focused on salsa and bachata in Melbourne. Since I began traveling, I have taught classes in the cities I visit, attending social dance parties and putting my theories and techniques on social dance into practice. I also create content for my Instagram and YouTube accounts, where I share techniques and experiences.

Social dance is not just a form of entertainment; it is a powerful tool for human connection and personal well-being. I invite you to dive into this fascinating world and discover for yourself the countless benefits it offers.

Conclusion

Social dance is an enriching experience that goes beyond steps and routines. It is a form of communication that transcends words and creates deep connections between people. From my beginnings in 2009 to my rediscovery in 2019, I have learned that the true value of social dance lies in the joy and connection it brings to our lives. If you are looking for an activity that makes you feel alive and connected with others, social dance is the answer.

I hope this article has inspired you to explore social dance and its benefits.

See you on the dance floor!