Recently my article got published in North America's largest South Asian fashion and lifestyle magazine. Here is the link to the article -
http://www.anokhimagazine.com/online-exclusives/lets-learn-salsa-dancing-toronto
Let’s learn Salsa!
"The chemistry was beginning to fade". This was what Natasha mentioned to me a few days ago. She had been married for 7 years now.
Mother to a 4 year-old boy, Natasha was concerned that she and her husband weren't spending quality time together as they were busy in their daily chores. But she was excited now. "Every weekend, we go for Salsa dance classes. My hubby isn't a great dancer, but he is giving his best, and he is enjoying it. The close dance is reigniting the intimate connection between us".
It is often said that dancing is good for the soul. And if the dance is Salsa, what better! Salsa dancing, popular in North and Latin America, is gaining popularity in the rest of world. The origin of Salsa dates back to the 1950s and the popular style followed today emerged from New York in the 1970s. Salsa music is an amalgam of a number of Cuban styles. What makes this dance unique is the beauty and grace where subtle movement of legs and upper body is used to convey the energy of the dance.
As it is a partner dance and follows a high tempo, learning Salsa requires practice. Hence, there are several dance schools in North America with the most popular classes offered being Salsa lessons. Almost all dance schools have a Level 1 lessons meant for beginners. These lessons span over 10-12 one hour classes. The best part is that once the individuals get the Salsa basics, they could try out their moves at the social outings often organized by these dance schools or by various night clubs. And it's just so much fun!
There are various reasons why individuals sign up for salsa classes. While some have a long term desire to learn Salsa after they see a TV show, others follow in for the music. Tracie Yee, Instructor at Toronto Dance Salsa, Canada's largest dance school is one such person. She relocated to Toronto in 2002 and enrolled in Salsa classes as she wanted to meet people and learn a new style of dance. Soon, she fell in love with the dance and through further Salsa education is now an instructor helping beginners learn the dance.
When asked what she loves about teaching Salsa to beginners, Tracey says, "I love experiencing the excitement that a student feels when they accomplish something in class: remembering a turn pattern, figuring out footwork or executing a combo on their own." She loves it when her students who start as absolute beginners gradually venture out to socials and outings and make an impact. The feeling of seeing a novice being comfortable at Salsa makes her "feel like a proud parent!"
Learning Salsa has certain advantages too. Salsa dancing is a great way to stay fit, let loose with a partner or even spice up a romantic relationship with your significant other. When asked how one can figure out if dancing is for me, Tracey quickly retorts "I hear this kind of thing all the time. Figuring out if you can dance is just a matter of trying. I have seen many people who have confessed to having two left feet or no dance experience become wonderful dancers. Remember that in dance, as in learning, any art form, technique and passion are equally important. When you're learning to dance, remember that it's not just about what you're learning, but why you're learning. When the technical side of dance becomes frustrating, recall the reason why took up dance in the first place - it could be the love of the music, the love of the feeling on the dance floor or the love of learning something new. Then dance will be a wonderful and inspiring companion for life".
Wanting to learn Salsa could be your long term desire, but it takes some courage to get out of the comfort zone and try something new. You'll enjoy the experience. As Tracey puts it "You'll learn to laugh at yourself and celebrate all the awkward and the graceful moments equally. Embrace wherever your love of dance takes you and enjoy every moment."
Yes, learning to dance Salsa could be a wonderful thing. If you had ever wanted to get fitter or spice up your relationship, pick up those dancing shoes and let yourself lose. You'll take your time to learn but will have fun and enjoy the experience.
BY SMRUTI DAS / POSTED APRIL 19, 2012
