Beyond the Dance Floor: Ballroom Dance Etiquette and Life Skills

Instructor Jake Famme and student Didi taking a graceful bow at the Summit Dancesport Competition."

Introduction:

As a child and even into my adolescence, I was the epitome of the phrase "wallflower." I was shy, socially awkward, and I found it challenging to engage with others in a meaningful way. This isn't an uncommon narrative; many of us struggle with the fear of social interaction at some point in our lives. However, my personal journey took an interesting turn when I discovered the world of ballroom dance.

Beyond the sequins, the rhythm, and the fluid movement, I found something truly transformative within this disciplined form of dance. It was an arena that not only required interaction with others but was built upon it. As I took my first uncertain steps on the dance floor, I began to realize that ballroom dance wasn't just teaching me to waltz or tango, it was equipping me with vital life skills. It was refining my social etiquette, enhancing my communication abilities, and honing my teamwork skills. It was teaching me about respect, patience, and even how to handle rejection gracefully. Today, I am excited to delve deeper into how the elegance and discipline of ballroom dance are not merely steps and movements but crucial life lessons disguised in rhythm and grace.

Respect and Courtesy:

One of the first and foremost principles ingrained in any ballroom dance student is the notion of respect and courtesy. These concepts permeate every aspect of this dance form. From the respectful nod to your partner before you begin your routine to the polite applause for your fellow dancers at the end of a competition, every gesture underscores the value of respect and courtesy. This awareness extends not only to your dance partner but to every individual sharing the dance floor with you.

It's a lesson that beautifully translates to life beyond the dance floor. In a professional setting, respect and courtesy create a conducive environment for growth and productivity. Just like on the dance floor, acknowledging and valuing everyone's contributions, regardless of their role or position, fosters teamwork and collective success. The ability to engage with colleagues, superiors, and subordinates alike in a respectful and considerate manner is a sought-after trait in any industry.

In our personal lives, the significance of these values is magnified. Whether it's interacting with family, friends, or even strangers, a respectful and courteous approach opens the door to meaningful and enduring relationships. It encourages a healthy exchange of ideas, fosters mutual understanding, and often, it's the glue that holds relationships together during challenging times. Ballroom dance might seem like an unlikely teacher for these life skills, but its lessons are deeply impactful, affecting every interaction in our lives and helping us navigate the dance of life with grace and dignity.

Communication:

If dance is a language, then ballroom is a dialogue. Verbal communication may be second nature to most, but the beauty of ballroom dance lies in its emphasis on non-verbal communication. It's not simply about executing steps perfectly; it's about communicating a story, an emotion, or a shared experience through movement. As dancers, we rely heavily on our body language to interpret the music and convey our interpretations to our partners and the audience. The subtleties of a held gaze, the firm yet gentle hold, or even the rhythmic coordination of our steps become our vocabulary in this silent conversation.

I often highlight to my students the critical importance of non-verbal cues beyond the dance floor as well. How we present ourselves, our body posture, our reactions to different situations - these are all silent yet potent forms of communication. Take a dance competition, for example: how a dancer enters and exits the dance floor or reacts to the results can leave a lasting impression. It's not always about winning or losing, but the demeanor that we maintain throughout.

This lesson proves invaluable in both professional and personal spheres. In a business meeting, for example, assertive body language can convey confidence and credibility. Similarly, in personal relationships, our non-verbal cues can express empathy, interest, and understanding. Learning to master non-verbal communication through ballroom dance, therefore, equips us with an enriched toolkit for interpersonal interactions, enabling us to communicate more effectively in all areas of life.

Discipline and Patience:

One cannot speak of dance without mentioning discipline and patience - two core pillars that define this beautiful art form. To gracefully execute intricate footwork, to seamlessly move in sync with a partner, to eloquently express a piece of music through movement - none of these come overnight. They are the result of countless hours spent practicing, refining, and perfecting. The commitment to mastering the techniques and the patience to continuously learn are fundamental in every dancer's journey.

I've seen the transformative impact of these lessons on my own journey, both as a dancer and as a dance instructor. Teaching dance has its own set of unique challenges, one of which is managing the pace of learning. There can be a temptation to push a student beyond their capabilities in pursuit of rapid progress. However, as an instructor, I've learned the importance of acknowledging that every student is on their own unique journey. It's crucial to respect that pace and to be patient as they develop their skills.

Applying this discipline and patience beyond the dance floor can have profound effects on our lives. It teaches us to take our time, to embrace the process of learning, and to patiently work towards our goals. These are valuable lessons that can help us navigate various aspects of life, be it pursuing a career, nurturing relationships, or even embarking on personal projects. By instilling discipline and patience, ballroom dance teaches us not just how to move, but also how to live.

Posture and Poise:

A fundamental aspect of dance that often goes under-appreciated is the importance of posture and poise. It's probably safe to say that most of us have heard the words "Sit up straight!" uttered by a concerned parent or teacher at some point in our lives. This concern for posture, while sometimes shrugged off as a mere aesthetic consideration, is deeply rooted in the world of dance. In fact, proper posture is often one of the first lessons a new dancer learns.

Ballroom dance does more than just teach you to stand tall; it instills a sense of confidence that can permeate throughout your daily life. Imagine walking into a job interview: your resume can demonstrate your skills and experience, but the confidence you exhibit as you enter the room, maintaining eye contact and offering a firm handshake, speaks volumes about your personality before you've even spoken a word.

The same principle applies on the dance floor. Judges at dance competitions are just as human as the rest of us, and a dancer's presence is often noted as soon as they step onto the floor. A dancer with good posture and poise exudes a certain level of confidence that can influence perceptions.

Beyond the realm of first impressions and aesthetics, maintaining good posture also carries significant health benefits. It can help prevent back pain, enhance breathing, and even improve mental wellbeing. In essence, good posture isn't just about looking good; it's about feeling good, too. Through dance, we learn to carry ourselves with grace, both on the dance floor and in life.

Teamwork:

Navigating the intricate world of teamwork can be a challenging endeavor, but it's a critical skill that ballroom dance hones to perfection. Like any other partnership-based activity, ballroom dancing hinges on the ability of two individuals to synchronize their efforts towards a common goal. Whether that goal is to win a dance competition or simply to improve, the act of striving together breeds a special kind of synergy.

In the context of a dance, every step, turn, and flourish is a testament to the bond between partners. Each dancer must be mindful of their partner's movements, adapting and responding to them in real-time. This requires not just physical coordination but a deep understanding of your partner's strengths, weaknesses, and tendencies. The dance floor thus becomes a melting pot of communication, collaboration, and mutual respect.

This teamwork dynamic isn't confined to the dance floor, however. Many of us will have encountered group projects or team-based tasks in our work or academic lives. In these situations, being able to work effectively with others—integrating a diversity of skills, balancing responsibilities, and harmonizing different personalities—is crucial for success. The parallels between the dance partnership and the work team are striking, and the lessons learned from each can be mutually beneficial.

So, whether you're aiming to win a dance competition or striving to ace a group project, the teamwork skills developed through ballroom dance can provide an invaluable edge. The dance floor may just be the perfect training ground for mastering the art of collaboration.

Dealing with Rejection:

Ballroom dance offers an unfiltered lesson in managing rejection, a skill that carries immeasurable worth in all walks of life. Competitions are the crucible of the dance world, where the culmination of hard work, dedication, and passion are put to the test. However, not every dance can end in victory, and there will inevitably be moments where our best efforts simply aren't enough to secure a win. These instances of defeat can be tough to process, but they also provide us with the opportunity to grow, to build resilience, and to fortify our determination.

When faced with such rejection, the question isn't about whether we lose, but how we handle that loss. Do we let it shatter our confidence, or do we view it as a stepping stone towards improvement? The ability to handle rejection with grace, to view it not as a failure but as a learning experience, is a trait that ballroom dance instills in its students.

This life lesson extends far beyond the dance floor. Whether it's job applications, relationships, or personal goals, life is often a series of attempts, and inevitably, some of those attempts will end in rejection. However, each rejection brings us one step closer to a future success. As the saying goes, you miss 100% of the shots you don't take.

In the grand scheme of things, rejection is not an endpoint, but a stepping stone on the path to success. Ballroom dance taught me to embrace rejection as part of my journey, a lesson that I've carried into every aspect of my life. And as painful as it may be at times, I firmly believe that it is through these moments of defeat that we truly learn to dance.

Conclusion:

Reflecting on my own journey from a shy, socially awkward individual to a confident dancer and instructor, I can say without a doubt that the dance floor has been my greatest classroom. It’s on this stage that I've learned invaluable lessons about respect, communication, discipline, poise, teamwork, and dealing with rejection—lessons that extend far beyond the rhythm and the steps, seeping into every aspect of my personal and professional life.

Ballroom dance is not just about perfecting the art of moving to the rhythm of music; it's about cultivating a mindset and acquiring life skills that enable us to navigate the world with confidence, grace, and resilience. The transformation it induces is profound and far-reaching, shaping us into individuals who are better equipped to handle life's ups and downs.

So whether you are considering learning ballroom dance or you're already on this journey, remember: Every step, every spin, and every misstep on the dance floor is a chance to grow, to improve, and to become the best version of ourselves.

As we step into the spotlight, let's remind ourselves that we're not just dancers; we are perpetual students learning valuable lessons about life. Now, I invite you to step onto the dance floor, embrace the rhythm, and let the dance begin. Leave a comment below and share your dance experiences and the life lessons it has imparted to you. And don’t forget to share this post with others who might benefit from it. Let’s dance, learn, and grow together!

Learning Life's Rhythm: Lessons from My Dance Idol, Derek Hough

Got to pick up Derek Hough!

Meeting Derek - The Dream Come True

The experience of meeting Derek was surreal and unfolded in two memorable instances. The first time, during his show, I not only had the opportunity to watch him perform live, but I also got to record a TikTok video with him. We did the viral "Coincidence" routine, a moment that left me breathless, more-so because I got to lift Derek Hough - a moment any dancer would covet. The second instance was after a dance competition, My students joined me at the show. One of them joined me for the backstage experience. To our delight, she had the opportunity to dance a Hustle with Derek, while I was thrilled to perform a side-by-side jive routine with him. Having a one-on-one conversation with Derek was surreal, and his down-to-earth demeanor made the encounter even more special. The cherry on top, however, was the Q&A session, where I could delve deeper into his dance philosophy and career journey.

Staying In Peak Performance - Derek’s Wisdom:

One of the pressing questions I had for Derek was how he maintained his physical peak performance. His answer was simple but profound: personal ritual, energy management, and proper nutrition. Derek stressed the importance of having routines that prepare your body and mind for rigorous activity, like a warm-up ritual or a regular exercise routine. Checking your energy levels and aligning them with your activities is crucial, he said. Lastly, he emphasized how consistent, nutritious eating habits fuel performance, highlighting the significance of treating your body as your most important instrument.

Choreographing With Energy - Derek's Approach:

When asked about choreography and overcoming mental blocks, Derek offered insightful advice. He emphasized that it's unproductive to develop choreography when you're in a low-energy or heightened emotional state. The story we wish to tell through our movement should align with our energy at the moment. Sometimes, inspiration could be as simple as designing the dance around a captivating costume or a unique prop, reminding us that creativity often lies in unexpected places.

The Most Profound Advice - Derek’s Life Lesson:

The most profound advice Derek shared came from his own mentors. He talked about the need to comprehend the energy we put out into the world. As dancers, we connect with people's emotions through our movement. Hence, we must be conscientious about the energy we embody and the influence we wield. Derek also shared a personal anecdote about competing in the U.K., where he recognized he wasn't the best dancer, but he had the audacity to show up and compete anyway. This lesson of resilience and self-belief has stayed with me.

Overcoming Adversity

My dance journey hasn't always been a smooth waltz across the ballroom. There were moments when I faced harsh criticism, moments that left me doubting my abilities. Particularly painful were instances when these doubts were sown by individuals I once considered mentors, people I looked up to in the dance world. I was told things like "you can't even dance" or "you will amount to nothing." It's a jarring experience to hear such negativity from those you respect and seek guidance from. The echoes of their words lingered, their sting piercing deeper because of the admiration I had for these individuals. The hurt was intense, but I realized that I had to move past these moments of self-doubt. It wasn't easy, but I had to remind myself that every dancer has a unique journey, and this was part of mine. I chose to continue dancing, not for the approval of others, but for the love of dance itself. It's in those moments of despair that Derek's wisdom resonated with me the most. "Be the person who sticks it out till the end," he said. So, here I am, sticking it out, for the love of dance.

Conclusion:

Meeting Derek Hough was not just a fan moment for me; it was a life-changing experience. Unlike my previous encounters with idols, which left me disheartened, Derek’s authenticity and encouragement have further ignited my passion for dance. They say, "don't meet your heroes," but I'm incredibly grateful I met mine, Derek Hough, who has given me more than I could have ever anticipated.

I’d love to hear your stories! Have you ever met your idols or have their wisdom influenced you? How have you persevered in the face of adversity? Please share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below. Let's inspire each other to keep dancing through life's challenges, one step at a time.

Finding My Rhythm: The Challenges and Triumphs of Solo Travel

Introduction:

There's a strange but freeing feeling that arises as you watch the familiar city skyline become a distant blur, tucked away behind clouds. Aboard a flight to Las Vegas, thousands of feet above the world, it hit me: I was alone, but I was unchained.

For years, a lingering belief cast a shadow over my dreams - the notion that one needs company to travel and truly live. Ensnared in this web of thought, I spent my mid-twenties searching for a co-pilot, someone whose vision mirrored mine, only to be met with disappointment. Even the logistics of planning a family getaway with my large clan seemed akin to moving mountains.

But as a young man of 24, something shifted. I found my rhythm in the world of Ballroom dance competitions. This newfound passion offered the perfect blend of my love for travel and dance and led me on solitary expeditions within the United States. And the feeling? It was electrifying. The thrill of catching a flight, alone, unfettered by the constraints of another's schedule, was liberating.

Invariably, I'm asked why I have such a fondness for Las Vegas, a city I venture to 4-5 times a year. The answer is simple: it's the city that witnessed my metamorphosis. The bright lights and bustling casinos were the backdrop to my epiphany - that I am the architect of my adventures.

 Today, the only limitation to my wanderlust is my own work schedule. This journey of self-discovery and independence is what I aim to share in this blog post: the liberation, the introspection, and the challenges that come with solo travel. Join me as I navigate the unchartered territories of being a solo traveler.

Caught in a moment of reflection, I stand in awe of the dazzling Las Vegas skyline.

 Self-Discovery & Growth

Traveling alone, much like mastering the rhythm of dance, is an invitation to an intimate tango with self-discovery. It can lead us to hidden corners of our inner selves, often revealing uncharted territories of our personality, resilience, and strength.

When we strip away the familiar comfort of companionship, we face uncertainty and doubt, a chorus of "self-talk demons" whispering apprehensions and coaxing us to retreat. Yet, it is precisely this discomfort that nudges us to confront and conquer our insecurities.  

Think of solo travel as an elaborate dance routine. Just as we muster the courage to step onto the dance floor, honing our technique before an audience, traveling alone propels us to push beyond our perceived limitations. We learn to trust our instincts, make decisions, and embrace accountability - a unique performance that unfolds on the stage of the world.

One of my most profound self-discoveries was acknowledging my capacity for self-reliance. Often undervalued, this skill is a pillar of resilience. It reinforces the realization that while we can't control others' actions or responses, we command our success and failures.

Certainly, we are social beings, and seeking help or extending it is a crucial part of our journey. Not every endeavor needs to be a solitary conquest. Yet, recognizing our primary role in our narrative is vital.

Each morning, the first face we confront is our own reflection. Traveling alone ensures that we begin each day with a self we trust and are proud of. It's an exercise in resilience, a dance of self-acceptance, a test of self-reliance. Through the lens of solo travel, we grow - not just as travelers, but as individuals.

Here I stand, in front of the grand Plaza Mayor in Madrid, absorbed by its majestic charm.

The Power of Decision-Making

The real magic of solo travel lies in the uncertainty, in the thrill of unexpected turns that demand swift, unplanned decisions. It often extends beyond deciding which flight to board, where to stay, or what to explore. It's about navigating the uncharted territories of happenstance and turning stumbling blocks into stepping stones.

Take, for instance, my recent trip to the vibrant city of Madrid, Spain. Despite meticulous preparation to ensure seamless phone connectivity, my plan fell through upon arrival. I found myself in an unfamiliar city, with a language barrier, and without the digital crutch of Google maps. But surrender wasn't an option.

I opted for an old-school solution: I purchased a physical map. Navigating Madrid with paper and ink became my unforeseen adventure. Armed with printed travel documents, including my Airbnb address, I communicated through gestures and pointed to words on the map, filling in the gaps where my Spanish fell short. Hours later, my phone service kicked in, but by then, I had already charted my path.

Traveling alone presents myriad such situations that call for rapid decisions, reinforcing the power and value of personal judgement. This power isn't just about taking charge when plans unravel; it's about reveling in the chance to improvise, to adapt, and to transform challenges into experiences. It’s about learning that when things don't go as planned, the real journey begins.

The Potential for Deeper Cultural Immersion

In the solitude of solo travel, the lines between the visitor and the local blur, revealing the heart of a culture in its purest form. My sojourn in Spain stands as a testament to this.

Despite my background in Spanish through high school and college, I rarely had the opportunity to put theory into practice. Conversational Spanish remained a distant concept, seemingly reserved for textbooks and not real-world interactions. However, stepping onto the vibrant streets of Madrid, I dusted off my Spanish skills and plunged headfirst into the fray.

The joy of stumbling through conversations, trying to recall the right words, and gesturing to make my meaning clear was a cultural immersion like no other. My imperfect attempts at Spanish were met with warmth and encouragement, locals gracefully filling in the linguistic gaps with their English.

But immersion goes beyond language—it seeps into the daily rhythms, the habits, and most delightfully, the cuisine of the people. Foregoing my usual preference for upscale restaurants, I opted for a pub crawl led by a local independent guide. The experience turned out to be a culinary revelation: a parade of tapas, each one a window into the everyday meals of the locals.

Traveling alone, unshielded by the familiar buffer of companionship, offers a unique opportunity to dive deeper into the cultural fabric of a place. It invites you to engage, to participate, and to experience a city as more than a visitor. In those moments, you're not just a traveler; you're a part of a vast, global tapestry.

Balancing history in my hands, I pose playfully with the Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Challenges of Solo Travel

Every journey has its shadows, and for the solo traveler, one of the most persistent can be the undercurrent of loneliness. The reality of being your sole companion, decision-maker, and problem-solver can, at times, feel daunting.

Navigating foreign landscapes, grappling with language barriers, and missing the shared laughter and companionship that often come with group travels, the solitude can sometimes verge on isolation. My original intent to journey with a partner adds an extra layer to this sentiment, a poignant reminder of a shared dream left unrealized.

However, within these challenges, there also lies a silver lining, a hidden chance to overcome and grow. For instance, dancing has often served as my antidote to loneliness. It's a universal language that breaks barriers, initiating connections that words sometimes fail to create.

Overcoming the solitude isn't about denying its existence, but embracing it as part of the journey. It requires intention, preparation, and an understanding of what one hopes to glean from the experience. In my case, I sought to prove my own self-sufficiency, a personal challenge after years of reliance on others, particularly within relationships.

Solo travel, while demanding, is not a quest for the faint-hearted. It's an odyssey of self-discovery and self-reliance, a voyage that sometimes sails through calm waters of self-contentment and at other times, storms of loneliness. Yet, in weathering these storms, we find not only our destination but also our inner strength.

Building Confidence & Resilience

In the dance of solo travel, each step, each misstep, each triumph, and trial contributes to a grand crescendo: the evolution of personal confidence and resilience. As I journeyed through the winding roads of unfamiliar cities, the peaks of joyous discoveries and valleys of momentary loneliness, I found a hidden rhythm. This rhythm, pulsing with lessons learned and challenges overcome, has honed my resilience and fortified my confidence.

 Solo travel is a process of continual self-assessment, self-reliance, and, importantly, self-belief. Every decision I made, every language barrier I overcame, and every moment of loneliness I endured served as a building block in the structure of my confidence. It's like an intricate choreography, where each twist, turn, and tumble amplifies the dance's beauty and complexity.

 In retrospect, the myriad upsides and downsides of traveling solo have worked in unison, like dance partners moving in harmony, to shape my character. The uncertainty that once threatened to silence my steps now serves as a cue to leap forward with grace and strength.

This evolution of confidence and resilience is not just the product of the distances I've traveled alone, but of the internal journey I've embarked upon. It is the constant interplay between the challenges and triumphs, the unexpected and the planned, the solitude and the connection. With every trip, I don't just travel; I grow, gaining strides in confidence and resilience, each journey a testament to the power of solo exploration.

The Balance of Solo Travel

As with any journey, solo travel has its harmonies and dissonances. It swings between the joy of discovering uncharted territories on your own terms and the occasional pang of loneliness. It encompasses the empowerment of decision-making and the weight of responsibility. It's a canvas painted with vibrant colors of cultural immersion, yet sometimes shadowed by communication challenges. Yet, despite the contrasting shades and tones, or perhaps because of them, I continue to choose solo travel.

The scales of upsides and downsides in solo traveling are not static; they shift with every journey, every destination. Yet, in my experience, the scales tilt towards personal growth, self-reliance, and deeper cultural appreciation more often than not. The lessons I've gleaned and the resilience I've developed along the way significantly outweigh the challenges.

Each trip is a testament to my evolution as a traveler and a human being. With every voyage, I am reminded that I am enough, capable of navigating the world and my life independently. And as I continue to traverse this path of exploration and self-discovery, I'm invigorated by the person I'm becoming - a person shaped by his journeys, each one a dance of experiences, of challenges and triumphs, of solitude and connection.

In the end, the rewards of solo travel far surpass its challenges. The world is my dance floor, and I am both the dancer and the choreographer, shaping my experiences as I go. I choose solo travel, not despite its trials, but because of them, for they are the steps that lead to a dance truly my own.

 

Standing before the grandeur of the Colosseum in Rome, I savor the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, a testament to the power of solo travel and personal aspiration.

Conclusion

And now, dear reader, I invite you to join the dance.

Whether you're a seasoned solo traveler, contemplating embarking on your first solo journey, or maybe you've found that perfect travel companion to share your adventures with, I want to hear your stories. The beauty of travel, be it solo or with others, lies in the unique experiences and insights we each gain. 

If you've ventured out into the world, what are the memorable moments that have shaped your journey? If you're still planning that first step, what sparks your excitement or feeds your apprehension? Your shared experiences, insights, and questions can inspire, guide, and connect other readers, turning this space into a vibrant dance floor of shared stories.

Leave a comment below to enrich our conversation. Let's form a community of explorers, where each traveler's unique rhythm adds to our collective melody.

If you have friends who might resonate with these words, consider sharing this post. They could be solo explorers or fortunate to have found their perfect travel partner. This space is open to all who embrace the dance of travel, irrespective of their preferred style.

As we share and learn from each other, let's celebrate the beauty of travel in all its forms. We're all part of this grand dance, each one of us choreographing our unique journey, whether it's a solo or a duet.

So, dear reader, are you ready to join the dance of travel? Let's step onto the dance floor

Unleashing the Magic: Dance Exhibitions and the Power of Performance

Pictured: Instructor Jake Famme and his amazing students before the big showcase performance

Dance exhibitions are thrilling opportunities for students to step into the spotlight, perform a meticulously crafted ballroom dance routine, and captivate a live audience. Beyond the applause and glitz, these performances hold immense value in building confidence, fostering a unique sense of accomplishment, and allowing students to express their authentic personality. In this blog post, we'll dive into the transformative power of dance exhibitions and explore how they empower students to shine on stage.

Building Confidence through Performance:

Dance exhibitions provide a stage where students can overcome stage fright, conquer their fears, and unleash their confidence. Stepping onto the dance floor in front of a live audience requires immense courage, and with each performance, students grow more self-assured. The supportive cheers and applause fuel their belief in their abilities, leading to an increased sense of self-esteem both on and off the dance floor. Dancing in exhibitions helps students embrace their uniqueness and realize their potential as performers.

A Unique Sense of Accomplishment:

Performing a ballroom dance routine in front of a live audience offers a unique sense of accomplishment. The countless hours of practice, dedication, and refinement culminate in a mesmerizing showcase of skill, artistry, and passion. As students execute each step with precision and grace, they experience the thrill of seeing their hard work come to life. The applause and admiration from the audience serve as validation for their efforts, leaving them with a deep sense of fulfillment and pride in their accomplishments.

Showcasing Personality and Authenticity:

Dance exhibitions provide a platform for students to showcase their unique personality and individual style. From elegant waltzes to fiery Latin rhythms, each dance routine becomes a canvas for students to express themselves artistically. Through their movements, facial expressions, and interactions with their dance partner, they can convey their emotions, tell a story, and create a profound connection with the audience. This creative expression helps students discover their artistic voice and nurtures their confidence in embracing their authentic selves.

Performing a routine offer a transformative experience that goes beyond the dance routine itself. They empower students to overcome fears, build confidence, and experience a unique sense of accomplishment. The stage becomes a canvas where students can showcase their true selves, express their individuality, and captivate an audience with their passion for dance. By participating in dance exhibitions, students not only refine their technical skills but also cultivate their inner artist, leaving them with lifelong memories and a newfound belief in their abilities.

Pro/Am Showcase Opportunity for students:

Additionally, I am thrilled to offer Pro-am instruction for those interested in performing showcase routines. Whether you're an experienced dancer or just starting your dance journey, I provide personalized choreography and expert instruction to help you shine on stage. It's an incredible opportunity to showcase your skills and create a memorable performance. Speaking of showcases, mark your calendars for June 10th at Uptown Dance studio in Tigard, where we will be hosting a spectacular event.

I have limited slots available each show, with only five spots in total. Three of them have already been reserved for our December 2023 showcase. So, if you're eager to give it a try, don't miss out and secure your slot today. Join us for an unforgettable evening of dance and witness the magic of our talented performers!

Eat, Play, Stay Fit: A Guide to Staying Active and Healthy While Traveling

As a dance instructor, fitness is essential for me to maintain peak performance. But as a traveler, I don't want to sacrifice indulging in the local cuisine and culture. It can be challenging to balance both, especially when traveling involves hours of sitting and being sedentary.

One of my go-to strategies for staying fit while traveling is to resist the convenience and using Uber or Lyft everywhere and instead walk or even bike. Renting a bicycle has been my favorite way to get around lately, and it's a great way to explore a new place while getting some exercise.

When traveling, time management can be a challenge, especially when trying to fit in a workout. However, I have found that even short bursts of exercise throughout the week can make a big difference. Just like practicing dance choreography, you don't need to have lengthy workout sessions to stay in shape. Multiple short bursts of 5-10 minutes can be just as effective, and can easily fit into a busy travel schedule. So, whether it's a quick morning yoga flow or a 10-minute bodyweight circuit before bed, finding small pockets of time for exercise can help maintain fitness while on the go.

HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) workouts are perfect for travelers because they're quick and effective. Even if you don't have access to a gym, you can do bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, and burpees in your hotel room or a nearby park. HIIT workouts favor short bursts of exercise, so you don't have to spend a lot of time working out, but you can still get great results. As a dance instructor, I love incorporating HIIT workouts into my own fitness routine and I even run weekly HIIT classes at the dance studio. They're a great way to get in shape and have fun with a group of like-minded people. If you're interested in joining, be sure to check out our class schedule!

Aside from staying active, it's equally important to watch what you eat while traveling to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Rather than indulging in large meals, I recommend trying smaller plates to taste different types of food. During my visit to Madrid, I couldn't resist trying tapas - small, delicious plates perfect for sampling a variety of dishes without overeating. Another trick is to do some research and plan your meals ahead of time. This way, you can make sure you're getting a balanced diet, and it can also help you avoid the temptation of unhealthy snacks. Additionally, staying hydrated is essential while traveling, as it helps regulate your metabolism and curb cravings. Drinking plenty of water will also help you avoid overeating.

In addition, if you find it difficult to incorporate exercise into your travel schedule, try to incorporate it into your daily activities. Walk or bike instead of taking a cab or public transportation, take the stairs instead of the elevator, and try to explore the city by foot. And remember, staying active and eating healthily doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing approach. It's okay to indulge in some of the local cuisine and enjoy yourself. Just make sure to stay mindful of portion sizes and balance it out with some physical activity.

If you have any questions about staying fit while traveling, or if you have any requests for future tips, feel free to leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you and help you stay on track with your fitness goals while still having an amazing travel experience.

The Solo Traveler's Guide: Tips for Adventurous and Independent Exploration

As a solo traveler, I've had plenty of people ask me about what it's like to travel alone, and for tips on how to do it successfully. The truth is, traveling solo can be a truly liberating experience, but it also requires a bit of planning and preparation. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Start small. If you're new to solo travel, it's a good idea to start with domestic trips. There are plenty of beautiful places to see in the United States, and traveling domestically can be a great way to build your confidence and get a feel for what solo travel is like.

2. Obtain TSA pre-check. This is a game-changer when it comes to getting through airport security quickly. It's a relatively simple process, and it can save you a lot of time and hassle.

3. Travel light. One of the biggest benefits of solo travel is the freedom to move quickly and easily. Packing light will make you more agile, and it can save you money on baggage fees. Plus, you'll have less to worry about when you're on the go.

4. Have a plan, but be flexible. It's important to have a rough itinerary for your trip, but don't be afraid to deviate from it if something interesting comes up. Sometimes the best experiences happen when you least expect them.

5. Be confident in your use of software, but be prepared to print out documents. Technology can be a lifesaver when it comes to solo travel, but it's always a good idea to have a backup plan. Print out your important travel documents and keep them with you, just in case.

Traveling solo can be an incredible experience, and with a bit of planning and preparation, you can do it with confidence. So why not start planning your next adventure today? Let me know if you want anymore travel tips and if you have any questions be sure to leave a comment below!

Happy Travels!!

Smooth Sailing: Why I Love Cruising

Cruising is one of my absolute favorite ways to travel. There's just something about being on a ship, away from the real world, that is so unique and magical. From the stunning ocean views to the incredible onboard amenities, there's just so much to love about cruising.

One of my favorite things about cruising is the opportunity to disconnect and unwind. When you're on a ship, you're truly in your own little world. There are no emails to check, no phone calls to answer, and no deadlines to meet. It's just you, the ocean, and a whole lot of relaxation.

But that's not all - cruising is also a fantastic way to meet new people and make lasting connections. As a solo traveler, going on a cruise by myself can be a little daunting, but it's also an incredible opportunity to meet new people from all over the world.

And as a dancer, I absolutely love the live bands they have on board. It's the perfect opportunity to strut my stuff on the dance floor and maybe even learn some new moves from fellow passengers. It's amazing how dance can be such a universal language - even if you don't speak the same language as someone else, you can still communicate through movement and music.

Of all the cruise lines I've been on, Princess is definitely my favorite. From the fantastic onboard entertainment to the incredible dining options, there's just something special about a Princess cruise. And of course, the fact that they often cater to an older crowd means that there are usually fewer kids on board, which is a big plus for me.

If you haven't tried cruising yet, I highly recommend it as a unique way to travel and experience the world. And if you're looking for a cruise line that offers amazing amenities and caters to an older crowd, you can't go wrong with Princess. Bon voyage!

How Travel and Dance Have Shaped My Life and Communication Skills

I never thought dance and travel would have such a huge impact on my life, but now, as a seasoned dance instructor and travel enthusiast, I can't imagine my life without them. They've not only helped me stay fit and healthy, but also given me the tools to communicate more effectively with people from all walks of life.

Growing up, I was an extremely shy person. I found it hard to communicate with others, and often felt like I was on the sidelines watching everyone else have fun. Dance taught me to express myself in new and creative ways. It gave me a platform to showcase my talents and allowed me to connect with people on a deeper level. As I became more comfortable on the dance floor, I started to gain confidence in myself and my abilities off the dance floor.

Travel has also played a huge role in shaping who I am today. It's allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone and experience new cultures and ways of life. Travel has taught me to be adaptable, open-minded, and accepting of others. These skills have not only made me a better traveler but also a better communicator.

One experience that really sticks out in my mind is when I was in Spain and decided to go out social dancing. I don't speak Spanish very well, but it didn't matter on the dance floor. People I danced with and I communicated through movement and created a connection that didn't require words. It was a truly memorable experience and one that reinforced my belief in the power of dance to connect people.

Together, dance and travel have enhanced my life in so many ways. They've allowed me to stay active, express myself, and connect with people from all over the world. And the best part is, anyone can enjoy the benefits of dance and travel, regardless of their age or experience level.

If you're looking to enhance your life through dance and travel, then stick around. I'll be sharing my travel stories, dance tips, and fitness advice to help you live your best life. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or new to the dance world, there's something here for everyone.

So, let's go on this journey together. Check back often for more updates, travel stories, and fitness/dance tips. Let's live life to the fullest!