Learn to Ballroom Dance https://ballroomdanceatl.com with Robert Tolentino Tue, 27 May 2025 16:09:20 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.2 57387722 Room Alignments – Your Compass on the Dance Floor http://ballroomdanceatl.com/room-alignments/ http://ballroomdanceatl.com/room-alignments/#respond Thu, 22 May 2025 05:25:51 +0000 http://ballroomdanceatl.com/?p=3209

Introduction to Room Alignments in Ballroom Dance

In ballroom dancing, precision and orientation are just as important as rhythm and technique. One essential concept that helps dancers navigate the floor with accuracy is room alignment. Room alignments refer to the standardized directions dancers use to position and move themselves within a ballroom. Much like a compass provides direction for navigation, room alignments offer a spatial framework that helps both instructors and students understand where steps should begin, end, or transition.

Whether you're learning your first box step or refining a competition routine, understanding room alignments is key to executing patterns correctly, maintaining flow on the dance floor, and communicating effectively with your partner. Let’s explore what these alignments are and why they’re a fundamental part of every ballroom dancer’s skill set.

In ballroom dancing, room alignments can be compared to points on a compass to help dancers understand direction and orientation within the ballroom. Just like a compass uses North, South, East, and West to indicate direction, ballroom dancing uses a set of standardized reference points in the room to define where movements begin and end. Here's how room alignments translate to compass-like directions:

Key Room Alignments (Compass Analogy):

  • Line of Dance (LOD) – Think of this as North.  It’s the direction dancers travel around the perimeter of the dance floor, usually counterclockwise.
  • Against Line of Dance (ALOD) – Like South.  Directly opposite of LOD. Moving against the natural traffic flow.
  • Wall (W) – Like East.  Toward the outer edge of the room (or toward the audience in many performances).
  • Center (C) – Like West.  Toward the center of the dance floor (inward direction).
  • Diagonal Wall (DW) – Like Northeast.  Toward a spot between LOD and Wall.
  • Diagonal Center (DC) – Like Northwest.  Toward a spot between LOD and Center.
  • Against Diagonal Wall (DW ALOD) – Like Southeast.  Opposite of DW; diagonally back toward the Wall.
  • Against Diagonal Center (DC ALOD) – Like Southwest.  Opposite of DC; diagonally back toward the Center.

Understanding Qualifying Terms in Room Alignments

After learning the Key Room Alignments, it’s important to understand the qualifying terms that often accompany them. These words provide additional detail that helps dancers interpret how to orient their bodies or how a step is being executed in relation to a specific direction. You’ll hear these terms frequently in both group and private instruction, choreography breakdowns, and dance manuals.

Here are the most common qualifying terms associated with room alignments:

  • Facing (F.) - This means the front of your body is pointed in the specified direction.
      • Example: “Facing Diagonal Wall” means your torso is aligned with and looking toward Diagonal Wall.
  • Backing (B.) - The opposite of facing—your back is toward the specified direction, and you are either stepping backward into it or exiting a figure with your back to that alignment.
      • Example: “Backing Line of Dance” means your back is toward LOD as you move or finish a figure.
  • Pointing (P.) - Used mostly in foot placements, “pointing” refers to the direction your foot is aimed, regardless of where your body is facing.
      • Example: “Pointing Diagonal Center” could mean your foot is placed in that direction, even if your torso is rotated slightly differently.
  • Moving Toward (M.) - Describes the direction your step travels—not necessarily where your body is facing. This is especially useful in steps involving body rotation or when traveling in one direction while facing another.
      • Example: “Moving Toward Wall” means you are physically stepping in that direction, even if you’re not facing it directly.
  • End Alignment (E.) - This term refers to where the body is oriented *after* completing a figure. It’s commonly used when describing the result of a turn or sequence of steps.
      • Example: “Ends facing Diagonal Center” gives you a clear reference for where you should be positioned when a figure is completed.

These qualifiers bring clarity to choreography and help dancers analyze movement more deeply. Knowing not just where you are, but how you’re relating to that space, is the key to fluid, intentional ballroom dancing.

Why This Compass Approach Helps:

  • It provides clarity and consistency when teaching or learning choreography.
  • Dancers can orient their bodies and steps properly in any space.
  • Instructors can give precise cues (e.g., “step DW” or “turn to face C”).
  • It enhances spatial awareness, especially in partner dancing where alignment impacts lead and follow roles.

Using this mental compass helps dancers navigate the floor just as easily as a sailor would chart a course at sea. It’s all about direction, precision, and flow.

How to Use the Ballroom “Compass”

Once you understand the concept of room alignments, you can start using them like a compass to analyze movement with purpose and precision. Every step in ballroom dancing has a starting point and a destination—both of which can be defined using room alignment terms. By identifying where a figure begins and where it is supposed to end, along with how much rotation is involved, you create a landmark goal for your movement. This approach takes the guesswork out of dancing and replaces it with spatial intention.

Start, Rotate, Arrive

When approaching a new dance figure, ask yourself:

  • What alignment am I starting from?
  • How many steps does the figure take?
  • How much turn or rotation is expected?
  • Where should I end up—what is my destination alignment?

For example, you may start facing Diagonal Wall and need to end backing Line of Dance after a 3/8 turn to the Right. This directional path gives you a literal road map on the dance floor—guiding not just your feet, but your body position and lead/follow intentions. See Figure A

Left vs. Right Turns: A Useful Pattern

You’ll also notice a helpful trend:

  • Most left turning figures tend to start facing Center or Diagonal Center
  • Most right turning figures begin facing Wall or Diagonal Wall.

This pattern can be a powerful tool when reading the floor in real time. For instance, if you’re planning a left-turning figure and you see the space toward Center is blocked by another couple, it may be better to delay that movement or modify your path. Conversely, if you're aiming to turn right and see an open space toward Wall, you know you’ve got a natural lane for that figure.

Using the room alignment compass in this way turns your dancing into strategic movement—giving you confidence, clarity, and control. It enhances floorcraft, improves your ability to execute choreography, and helps keep the flow of traffic smooth and respectful to others sharing the space.

Download a PDF

]]> http://ballroomdanceatl.com/room-alignments/feed/ 0 3209 High Fives All Around! http://ballroomdanceatl.com/high-fives-all-around/ Sun, 27 Apr 2025 01:51:17 +0000 http://ballroomdanceatl.com/?p=2996

Spring Showcase Success at Club 201

Wow — what a night we had at Club 201! Our Spring Showcase benefiting our amazing veterans was a total success, and I couldn’t be prouder of each and every one of you who stepped onto that dance floor.

We had seven standout performances that truly lit up the room:

  • Camila & Tyrell kicked things off with a “snappy”, smooth and classy Foxtrot.
  • Jennifer brought the passion and elegance with her Rumba.
  • Roxana & Francois floated beautifully through a timeless Waltz.
  • Tina brought the energy and sass with a fantastic Cha Cha.
  • Lisa was all grace and style dancing a Foxtrot with me.
  • Roxana wasn’t done yet — she came back for a romantic Bolero with me, Robert.
  • Brittany closed us out with a heartfelt Night Club Two Step that touched everyone’s heart.

All night long, people kept coming up to me to say how much they loved watching you all perform. Seriously — our group made a huge impression! You brought joy, energy, and so much heart to every step, and it showed.

Why Showcases Are Pure Magic

Here’s the thing: showcases aren't just about the performance. They push you to grow like crazy. When you have a goal on the calendar, you practice smarter, not just harder. Your technique sharpens, your musicality deepens, and suddenly moves that once felt tricky start to feel natural.

And let’s not forget what it does for your confidence. Watching you all transform over the past few months has been amazing. You walked onto that stage with more self-belief, poise, and presence than ever before — and you’re taking that confidence with you into every area of your life, not just dance.

The Power of Community

One of the coolest parts of this whole journey? The way everyone supported each other. The encouragement, the laughter, the team spirit — that’s what makes dancing (and performing!) so special. We weren’t just individuals performing routines; we were a team celebrating every win together.

To Camila, Tyrell, Roxana, Francis, Jennifer, Tina, Lisa, and Brittany — you absolutely crushed it. You made me, and everyone who watched, incredibly proud. Most importantly, you honored our veterans through your dedication and passion.

Here’s to many more showcases, memories, and dances ahead. Let’s keep leveling up — the best is yet to come!

Cheers,  

Robert

 

]]> 2996 The Secret to Ballroom Bliss: Why Leading and Following Can Wait http://ballroomdanceatl.com/the-secret-to-ballroom-bliss-why-leading-and-following-can-wait/ http://ballroomdanceatl.com/the-secret-to-ballroom-bliss-why-leading-and-following-can-wait/#respond Thu, 08 Aug 2024 23:31:02 +0000 http://ballroomdanceatl.com/?p=2667 As a seasoned ballroom dance instructor, I’ve seen it all. One of the most frequent (and endearing) questions I get is about leading and following. It’s a vital part of partnership dancing, but it’s often the first thing students want to conquer. Imagine trying to run before you can walk – that’s pretty much what’s happening here.

Think back to your first time playing catch. Did you immediately know how to snag that ball flying your way? Probably not. First, you learned to catch when you saw it coming. Only after lots of practice did you start catching balls on instinct, even if they came out of nowhere. This same principle applies to dancing: foundation first, fancy stuff later.

When I introduce a new move, my role is to lead, guiding you through the steps. Yet, almost immediately, hands shoot up with questions about leading and following. “Hold your horses!” I think. “Let’s nail the steps before we worry about who’s doing the leading.”

Here’s a fun analogy: imagine baking a cake but worrying about the frosting before the batter is even mixed. You wouldn’t do that, right? In dance, the steps are your batter. Get them right, and the leading and following – your frosting – will come naturally and make everything sweeter.

Now, for a bit of humor. Picture this: You’re learning to dance, and suddenly you’re more focused on leading like Fred Astaire or following like Ginger Rogers than simply getting the steps right. Spoiler alert: even Fred and Ginger had to learn their basic steps first!

So here’s my tip: relax, enjoy the process, and focus on mastering the moves. Once you can dance the steps without overthinking, leading and following will fall into place effortlessly. Trust me, your dance partner will thank you.

One more tip from the vault of dance wisdom: practice makes perfect. Whether it’s a quickstep or a slow waltz, repetition is your friend. The more you practice, the more natural the moves become, and soon enough, you’ll find yourself leading and following like a pro without even realizing it.

Remember, dancing is supposed to be fun! Laugh at your missteps, celebrate your progress, and let the music move you. After all, it’s not just about the destination but the joy of the journey. So, dance first, lead later, and watch your ballroom bliss unfold.

Happy dancing!

]]> http://ballroomdanceatl.com/the-secret-to-ballroom-bliss-why-leading-and-following-can-wait/feed/ 0 2667 To Rotate or Not to Rotate: A Dance Floor Dilemma http://ballroomdanceatl.com/to-rotate-or-not-to-rotate-a-dance-floor-dilemma/ http://ballroomdanceatl.com/to-rotate-or-not-to-rotate-a-dance-floor-dilemma/#respond Thu, 30 May 2024 20:35:48 +0000 http://ballroomdanceatl.com/?p=2650 To Rotate or Not to Rotate: A Dance Floor Dilemma

As an experienced social ballroom dance instructor, I have witnessed many couples navigate the intricate steps of learning to dance together. However, one experience stands out, shedding light on a common classroom challenge—the decision to rotate partners or not. Let me share the story of a couple who chose to dance exclusively with each other during class, a decision that profoundly impacted their learning and enjoyment.

The Story of a Struggling Couple

In one of my classes, there was a couple determined to stick together, believing it would better prepare them for their future as dance partners. Initially, they were enthusiastic, but as the class progressed, their decision seemed to hinder their growth. Unlike their classmates who rotated partners and experienced a variety of styles and feedback, this couple struggled with the same issues repeatedly.

Their inability to adjust to different dancing approaches led to frequent missteps and growing frustration. As the complexity of the dances increased, they found themselves needing more attention from me, often to the detriment of other students. This couple, unfortunately, began to monopolize my time, asking for repeated demonstrations and one-on-one guidance, disrupting the class flow.

As the weeks passed, their frustration with each other escalated. They disagreed openly about techniques and timing, each blaming the other for their struggles. Their once joyful learning experience turned into a series of arguments and resentment. Ultimately, they left the class angry and disheartened, a stark contrast to their fellow dancers who benefited from partner rotation and shared many laughs and successes.

Why Rotating Partners is Crucial

This example underscores several key benefits of rotating partners in a dance class:

1. Enhances Learning and Adaptability: Dancing with different partners exposes students to various styles and techniques, accelerating the learning process and helping dancers become adaptable.

2. Improves Leading and Following Skills: Rotation allows dancers to experience leading and following with different partners, sharpening their communication and responsiveness on the dance floor.

3. Encourages Social Interaction and Builds Community: Rotating partners fosters a friendly atmosphere, where all students interact and support each other, enhancing the social experience of the dance class.

4. Reduces Pressure and Anxiety: Rotating relieves the pressure of constant scrutiny from a single partner and spreads interactions across the class, creating a more relaxed and enjoyable environment.

Conclusion

The story of this couple illustrates a critical lesson: while dancing with a familiar partner may seem comforting, it often limits growth and can lead to frustration. Encouraging partner rotation not only builds technical skills but also enhances the overall classroom dynamics, making learning more comprehensive, enjoyable, and socially enriching. As an instructor, I advocate for rotation, ensuring that all students leave the class not just as better dancers, but as individuals who truly enjoy every step of their dance journey.

]]> http://ballroomdanceatl.com/to-rotate-or-not-to-rotate-a-dance-floor-dilemma/feed/ 0 2650 Back to School: Not Just for Kids – Try Ballroom Dancing https://ballroomdanceatl.com/back-to-school-try-ballroom-dancing/ Thu, 27 Jul 2023 18:31:55 +0000 http://ballroomdanceatl.com/?p=2358

The start of a new school year is often associated with children donning their backpacks and heading back to the classroom. However, the pursuit of knowledge and personal growth should not be limited to the young ones alone. For adults seeking a fulfilling and enriching experience, "going back to school" can take on a whole new meaning by exploring activities that provide both mental stimulation and physical well-being. One such activity is ballroom dancing. In this blog, we will explore the reasons why embracing the spirit of back-to-school for adults can be a life-changing decision, and how ballroom dancing can be an exciting and rewarding choice.

Part 1: Going Back to School - A Journey of Self-Improvement

While formal education has its place, the concept of going back to school as an adult revolves around continuous learning, personal development, and discovering new passions. Here are some reasons why it's worth embarking on this journey:

1. Lifelong Learning: The quest for knowledge knows no age limits. Engaging in learning opportunities, be it through courses, workshops, or new hobbies, keeps the mind sharp and curious.

2. Personal Growth: Challenging ourselves with new experiences fosters personal growth. It helps build resilience, adaptability, and a sense of accomplishment.

3. Discovering New Passions: As adults, we may have settled into routines and comfort zones. Going back to school allows us to explore different interests and discover hidden talents.

4. Social Connections: Learning as an adult opens doors to meeting like-minded individuals. Forming new social connections can lead to lasting friendships and support networks.

Part 2: Ballroom Dancing - Grace, Rhythm, and Joy

Ballroom dancing offers an enticing blend of art, sport, and social activity. It provides a myriad of benefits that go beyond just dancing. Here are some compelling reasons to choose ballroom dancing:

1. Physical Health: Dancing is an excellent form of exercise that engages the whole body, improving cardiovascular health, balance, flexibility, and muscle tone.

2. Mental Agility: Learning intricate dance routines enhances cognitive functions, such as memory, focus, and problem-solving skills.

3. Stress Relief: Dancing, particularly in the company of others, releases endorphins and reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, contributing to improved mental well-being.

4. Partner Connection: Ballroom dancing fosters teamwork and communication with a dance partner. The trust and cooperation required in dance can enhance relationships both on and off the dance floor.

5. Social Dancing Opportunities: Ballroom dancing provides numerous social events, dance parties, and competitions, creating a vibrant and supportive community.

6. Elegance and Confidence: Mastering graceful movements and elegant postures boosts self-confidence and poise, positively impacting how one carries themselves in various situations.

7. Time for Yourself: Amidst the hustle of daily life, ballroom dancing carves out valuable "me time" where you can unwind and immerse yourself in the joy of dancing.

Conclusion: Embrace the Spirit of Back to School with Ballroom Dancing
The idea of going back to school is not limited to children and should resonate with adults seeking to expand their horizons and enhance their well-being. Ballroom dancing, with its blend of artistic expression and physical activity, offers an exciting way to embark on this journey of self-improvement. As you step onto the dance floor, you'll find yourself not only mastering graceful movements but also building meaningful connections with others who share your passion. So, why wait? Take that first step, put on those dancing shoes, and let ballroom dancing be your gateway to a world of joy, growth, and self-discovery.

]]> 2358 Finding the Perfect Private Lesson Ballroom Dance Instructor for You: A Step-by-Step Guide https://ballroomdanceatl.com/finding-the-perfect-private-lesson-ballroom-dance-instructor-for-you-a-step-by-step-guide/ Thu, 27 Jul 2023 17:10:33 +0000 http://ballroomdanceatl.com/?p=2339

Ballroom dancing is an elegant and captivating art form that not only enhances physical fitness but also nurtures a sense of grace and poise. Whether you are a complete beginner or looking to refine your dance skills, private lessons with a professional instructor can accelerate your progress and provide personalized attention to your needs. However, with a myriad of dance instructors out there, it's essential to find the one who best suits your style, goals, and personality. Here are some steps to help you choose the perfect private lesson ballroom dance instructor that's right for you:

Define Your Dance Goals:

Before you start searching for an instructor, take a moment to clarify your dance goals. Do you want to learn ballroom dancing for a specific event, like a wedding or a social gathering? Are you interested in mastering a particular dance style, such as the waltz, tango, foxtrot, or salsa? Knowing your objectives will help you find an instructor who specializes in the styles you wish to learn and can tailor their lessons accordingly.

Research Local Instructors:

Begin your search by researching local dance studios, schools, or private instructors who offer ballroom dance lessons. Look for their websites, read reviews, and check out their credentials and experience. Pay attention to their teaching philosophy and whether they focus on technique, performance, or both. Seek recommendations from friends, family, or fellow dancers if possible.

Consider Experience and Qualifications:

When it comes to private lessons, the experience and qualifications of the instructor are crucial. Look for an instructor who has a strong background in ballroom dancing, with a proven track record of teaching success. Experienced instructors have likely encountered a wide range of students and can adapt their teaching methods to suit different learning styles.

Schedule a Trial Lesson:

Many dance instructors offer trial lessons, which give you an opportunity to experience their teaching style firsthand. Take advantage of these trial lessons to gauge the instructor's communication skills, teaching techniques, and ability to make you feel comfortable and confident on the dance floor.

Assess Communication and Teaching Style:

Effective communication is vital in dance instruction. A good instructor should be able to explain complex dance moves in a way that is easy to understand and remember. They should also be patient, encouraging, and adaptable to your pace of learning. Look for an instructor who provides constructive feedback and helps you identify areas for improvement without being overly critical.

Compatibility and Chemistry:

Learning to dance is a personal journey, and having good chemistry with your instructor can significantly impact your progress. During your trial lesson, observe how you feel around the instructor. Are they approachable and friendly? Do they make you feel at ease or intimidated? Trust your instincts and choose an instructor with whom you feel comfortable and motivated to learn.

Discuss Lesson Structure and Goals:

Have an open conversation with potential instructors about their lesson structure and how they tailor lessons to individual needs. Share your dance goals and inquire about their plan to help you achieve them. A good instructor will have a clear outline of the curriculum and be willing to adjust it to suit your requirements.

Consider Location and Availability:

The location of the dance studio and the instructor's availability should also be taken into account. Choose a studio that is convenient for you to reach, and ensure the instructor's schedule aligns with yours. Consistency and regular practice are essential in ballroom dancing, so you'll want an instructor with whom you can schedule regular lessons.

Discuss Fees and Policies:

Private dance lessons can be an investment, so make sure to discuss fees and payment policies with the instructor upfront. Inquire about the cancellation policy and any other terms and conditions related to the lessons. Transparency in financial matters will help you avoid any misunderstandings in the future.

Follow Your Gut Feeling:

In the end, trust your instincts. If you've done your research, taken trial lessons, and weighed the pros and cons, go with the instructor who resonates with you the most. A positive and inspiring learning environment can make a world of difference in your ballroom dance journey.

Remember...

...learning private lesson instructor who understands your goals, supports your progress, and makes the learning process enjoyable is key to unlocking your true dance potential. So, take your time, do your due diligence, and soon you'll be gracefully gliding across the dance floor with confidence and style! Happy dancing!

]]> 2339 The Allure of Private Ballroom Dancing Instruction: Unveiling its Benefits https://ballroomdanceatl.com/the-allure-of-private-ballroom-dancing-instruction-unveiling-its-benefits/ Thu, 27 Jul 2023 15:55:53 +0000 http://ballroomdanceatl.com/?p=2298

Ballroom dancing is a captivating art that gracefully blends rhythm, elegance, and poise. Whether you are a beginner aiming to grasp the basics or an experienced dancer seeking to refine your technique, the choice between group classes and private instruction is crucial. While group classes offer a sociable and interactive atmosphere, an increasing number of enthusiasts are opting for private instruction. In this blog, we'll explore the main reasons why people choose private instruction for ballroom dancing and the numerous benefits it brings.

Tailored Learning Experience:

One of the primary reasons why individuals gravitate towards private instruction is the personalized learning experience it provides. Private lessons are crafted to suit the individual needs, goals, and skill level of the student. Unlike group classes where the curriculum is more generalized, private instruction allows the dance instructor to focus solely on the student, identifying areas of improvement and tailoring lessons accordingly. This personalized approach accelerates the learning process, enabling dancers to progress at their own pace and feel more confident in their abilities.

Individual Attention:

In a group setting, it's not always feasible for instructors to devote equal attention to each participant. Private ballroom dancing instruction, on the other hand, ensures undivided attention from the instructor. This level of attention enables the instructor to correct posture, alignment, and technique more effectively, minimizing the risk of developing bad habits and preventing potential injuries. Moreover, immediate feedback helps dancers understand their strengths and weaknesses, leading to faster improvement.

Flexible Scheduling:

Private lessons offer greater flexibility in scheduling, making them a preferred choice for individuals with busy lifestyles. Whether it's a fluctuating work schedule or personal commitments, private instruction allows students to choose lesson timings that align with their availability. This flexibility fosters a sense of comfort and reduces the stress associated with adhering to fixed class schedules.

Accelerated Learning:

With the concentrated focus on the student's needs, private instruction leads to accelerated learning. Dancers often find themselves making significant progress in a shorter period, which can be highly motivating and rewarding. This rapid improvement fuels enthusiasm, inspiring dancers to continue their journey with renewed passion.

Confidence Building:

Mastering the art of ballroom dancing can be intimidating, especially for those who are shy or self-conscious. Private instruction creates a safe and nurturing environment, free from judgment, where students can build their skills and confidence at their own pace. As dancers gain proficiency and see tangible progress, their self-assurance grows, which often extends beyond the dance floor and positively impacts other aspects of their lives.

Custom Choreography:

Private instruction is ideal for dancers preparing for specific events or performances. In such cases, instructors can create custom choreography tailored to the dancer's abilities and the theme of the event. This personalized routine ensures a memorable and captivating performance, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

While group classes undoubtedly offer a lively and social atmosphere, the allure of private ballroom dancing instruction lies in its personalized approach, individual attention, and flexibility. As more dancers recognize the benefits of private lessons, this form of instruction is becoming increasingly popular. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned dancer looking to refine your skills, private ballroom dancing instruction opens doors to a world of accelerated learning, self-discovery, and boundless elegance on the dance floor. So, take the lead and embark on your enchanting journey into the realm of ballroom dancing through the magic of private instruction.

Schedule your first Private Lesson TODAY!

678.789.8197

]]> 2298 Who’s Leading Anyway – Life’s lessons on the dance floor http://ballroomdanceatl.com/whos-leading-anyway/ http://ballroomdanceatl.com/whos-leading-anyway/#respond Mon, 17 Aug 2015 19:18:46 +0000 http://ballroomdanceatl.com/?p=300

Who's Leading Anyway is a title of a chapter in a friend's (hopefully) soon to be written book. I'd like to borrow it to talk about my experience as a dance instructor. Leading and following is topic that has spurred a lot of conversation about the roles we play in relationships on and off the dance floor. And this will probably be discussed a lot on this blog. But today, the focus is on the 3rd partner of partnership dancing. The true leader. The Music. In dance, it's the music that is the true leader.  It gives us the dance, the tempo, the mood.  It tells a story. It revs us up and settles us down.   Dance is that physical representation of what music does to us. And when it's done well, it's beautiful.  As an instructor, I teach people to align their movement to the music, helping them create beauty on the dance floor. Now, how does this parallel life?  In life, do I align myself to the 'music' of my life? Do I let something, someone take the Lead? For most of my life, no – I danced to the beat of my own drum, following my own impulses and desires. (Yes, I am the middle child.) But, now, is my life beautiful?.... No. Now, don't get me wrong. I love my life and the people in it. But, I see the struggle against the flow of life. Just as I sometimes see a dancer who's not quite with the music and he/she doesn't want to get with the music. It's almost as if there is a struggle for which creative force will take center stage. The music vs the dancer, not a harmonious combination of both. Of late, I've really been growing in my understanding of what faith truly is, what letting go really is and what it means to have God guide my life. And as I look back at the instances in my life where I have unwittingly 'danced' my life well, I do see the beauty. I do see the harmony. I also still see me in the performance. Which is what I think I was most fearful about in letting go. Getting lost in performance. Not living MY life. This is not the case. There is beauty in aligning my life to God's will, and there is personal freedom within that will. What's funny is that when I teach women to follow, I assure them that there is room for personal expression within the lead. And that they have choices that doesn't disrupt the lead. I guess I needed some assurance too. Going forward, I am going to pay more attention to the music of life. And express within it. (I suspect in time that I'll look back at the dance of my life and see the beauty in the struggle too... not there yet)  ---- David, please finish the book, I look forward to reading it.

]]> http://ballroomdanceatl.com/whos-leading-anyway/feed/ 0 300 Pick a foot and get on it – Life lessons on the dance floor http://ballroomdanceatl.com/pick-a-foot-and-get-on-it/ http://ballroomdanceatl.com/pick-a-foot-and-get-on-it/#respond Tue, 17 Mar 2015 18:58:21 +0000 http://ballroomdanceatl.com/?p=127

dancing legs

"Pick a foot and get on it."  Preferably, not on your partner's.  This a phrase I say often when I teach.  It's because I'm always catching my students on both feet, weight split. I think it's because they're afraid to be on the wrong foot, so they're on both.  In ballroom dancing, you're rarely on both feet at the same time, weight equally split.  There are only a handful of split weight moves.  It's better to pick a foot and get on it. dancing You at least have a 50% chance of being right.  If you're on both, you're definitely wrong.  If you're the lead, it makes it difficult for the lady to follow your weight changes.  If you're the follow, you're not ready for the next move.  Life Lesson: Isn't it true that some of out most difficult times occur when we are indecisive?  We're "on the fence'. And when we're on the fence, we are filled with stress and anxiety.  We want to make the right decision.  Well, pick a foot and get on it.

"Indecision is often worse than wrong action." -Henry Ford.

Now, I'm the not suggesting we should hastily make decisions without considering consequences. God knows I've nearly been killed from some of my quick decisions.  It's the habit of indecision that is the problem.  It can cause more havoc than bad decisions.  As a leader, on the dance floor and off, your  indecision is felt. The people who follow you are relying on your decisiveness, not just because you always make the 'right' choices but because it's your role.

Dance tip:  To insure you have picked a foot and you're on it, raise the heel of the foot you did not choose.  This insures that you are fully committed.  And commitment is GOOD!

'Pick a foot and get on it.' You can always switch.

 

BDATL

 

]]> http://ballroomdanceatl.com/pick-a-foot-and-get-on-it/feed/ 0 127 hello https://ballroomdanceatl.com/hello-2/ Thu, 05 Sep 2013 16:45:24 +0000 http://ballroomdanceatl.com/?p=94

Welcome to my site.

And if you are new to ballroom dancing, I look forward to introducing you to this fun and exciting activity.  Ballroom dancing is one of those activities that you can participate as much or as little as you desire; if you are looking to compete in this dancesport or if you just want have some fun at the next dance social.  Whatever your goal, please allow me to help you.  This site has some info on how I can help.  If you have any questions please contact me.

See you out on the dance floor!!!

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