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As children, most of us were encouraged
to dance on a regular basis, freely and openly, in whatever way felt
best. A few of us may have retained our ability to engage in dancing
without being self-conscious, but by the time we reach adulthood, many of
us have stopped dancing altogether. We may have hang-ups about our
bodies, or we may fear being judged. Then again, we may simply have
fallen out of the habit for so long that we don’t even realize we never
dance anymore. Whatever the case, there’s no time like the present to
rediscover the healing pleasure of moving your body to music — alone, as
part of a couple, or in a group. Opportunities to dance abound, once you
start looking for them.
If you haven’t danced in a long time
and feel too self-conscious to start in a public situation, find some
time when you are alone to reintroduce yourself to the joy of listening
and responding to music with your body. Turn the lights down low, and
remember that it’s much more fun when you’re not thinking about what you
look like. It won’t take long before your body remembers how much it
loves to move. Let the music into your soul; feel the vibrations healing
your body. Treat the time like a meditation session in which you agree to
allow yourself to fully inhabit your amazing body.
If you feel awkward, know that every
culture since time immemorial has celebrated life and the body with
dance. All people carry the memory of dance in their blood and bones. In
other words, you were born to do this. It is in you already; all you have
to do is start moving. If you prefer more interaction, take a class one
night a week. In most cities, you can find everything from modern dance
to African dance to ballroom and salsa. Whatever you choose, you won’t
regret choosing to rediscover your birthright — the healing, joyful
thrill of dancing.
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