A big "Never"

    There are very few "always" and/or "never"s in dancing.  But I realized a big one on the way home tonight and felt compelled to share.  I NEVER dance with someone who has tense arms and think afterwards, "Gosh, that was fun."  In fact, I Always think, "Ow! I'm glad I survived that. Watch out for that guy in the future."
    Tension does not serve you!  On the dance floor or in life!   RELAX your arms!!  Please!  All you need is a teensy bit of tone so you're not a complete noodle.  You'll move more freely, communicate better, and have a heck of a good time.  Promise.
    Tonight I danced one dance, after teaching, with Zane.  Zane: to know him is to love him.  Ladies want to dance with him, guys want to dance like him.  He's soooooo relaxed!  Did we make our mistakes?  Yes.  Did we laugh them off?  You better believe it!
    I tell you all this because I think part of this tension epidemic stems from the desire to be perfect.  I know - I have it.  Like I said last week: we're never going to be perfect.  (It's no easier to say it this week).  As for me, I'm going to try to remind myself of that crappy fact before I dance with any great dancers.  (Yes, I sometimes still get nervous and into my head while following. There, I said it.)  But reminding myself I don't have to be perfect might help me remember I just have to be present.
    I'll see you on the hardwood:)