The Dance

Simple to learn, slow to finish learning.

Here is how a class moves, step by step. The gestures are shown in the room. Words only go so far.

Five movements

In this order, every time.

1
Dancing alone.
Everyone has their own space. A closing gesture, made with the hands, draws that space around you. Nobody is looking for anyone yet. You move to find yourself.
2
The opening.
A second gesture opens your space. It is very simple, and you will learn it in the first few minutes. Opening is the technique. It says: I am willing to meet someone.
3
Seeking.
Look around. Meet someone's eyes. A small nod, or a gesture, says "would you like to connect?" It can be as small as two hands that almost touch and then move a little closer.
4
The answer.
If either of you would rather not, you return to the gesture of a prayer over the heart. It means thank you, and no thank you. There is nothing to explain and nothing to defend. The other person is thanked. Both of you go on.
5
Dancing together.
Partners move through patterns from waltz, polka, the hustle, and the weaving figures of Argentine tango. You touch with one or two fingers only, like droplets on water. Sometimes you do not touch at all. You weave around each other, and the energy moves between you.