Dancing and Injuries

I cancelled my summer class due to a bicep tendon injury. Big ouch. Waking up with my arm totally immobile the day after the injury was shocking. Watching my body gain range of motion and strength was magical. What a fabulous creation we are with such healing properties. The worst pain of the summer was not dancing and not teaching. 
​
Last night I went to a contra dance. By the middle of the dance, I felt that I had been handled wrongly by many -- not that anyone was intentionally abusive towards me in their dancing. I think people just don't know how to dance with others... how to hold hands without thumb squeezing the other person's hand... how to allemande without a jack hammer throw approach... how to raise a joined arm or swing in a way that supports the other person... 

Any time we are physically connecting with others while dancing, it's important to touch in a way that enhances the dance rather than causes physical or emotional hardship to others. But if you are dancing with someone and you experience discomfort, say something about it immediately. Tell the person it hurts you when you are touched a certain way. If it happens again, stop dancing and talk with the dance organizer about your experience. 

With a new dance class semester starting this week, I am dedicating myself to teach not only series of steps and dance styles, but more importantly HOW we dance together with others in ways that does not cause injury. Dancing can be a fun and powerful way to connect with others when there is safety and comfort for everyone on the dance floor.