A New Plan for Your Health with Dance

Posted on August 24, 2017 by admin

Health is a complex thing; everyone maintains their health in different ways for their different bodies. That is why there are so many options for people who search for methods to stay healthy. All good health plans have a few things in common: good foods in moderation, exercise, and persistence. If you’re working to make a new plan for your health, consider adding a dance schedule.

It helps vary your exercise patterns.

When trying to maintain a health plan, many people struggle with the exercise routines for various reasons. Life may become busy and make it difficult to keep it up. Or, routines sometimes become a little dull. Dance is a great thing for both schedules and variety. When life gets busy and you need to be able to schedule your time well in advance, dance classes allow you to do that. Sign up for classes one or two weeks ahead of time, sometimes more, so you can make sure they fit into your plans. If you have time between dance classes, you can still continue your normal exercise program. When combined with the classes, you have something to break up the routine and keep it interesting.

It’s easier to keep up the program with some variety.

The more you enjoy your healthy choices, the easier it is to stick with them. If you can find healthy foods you love, you’ll want to eat them more. If your exercise increases your heartrate with both joy and exertion, you’ll want to do it more often. Dance has the potential to do this for you, thus increasing your chances of staying with your plan.

Dance uses different muscle groups.

When you are trying to be healthy, you need to exercise everything. There are plenty of ways to do this. You can do aerobics that require the entire body, or spend a bit longer working one part of the body at a time. Dance is an activity that moves many parts of the body. It’s a great compliment to your regular routine; whether you run, do yoga, or other cardio, dance is a great addition to work your muscles.

Make a new health plan and let us be part of it at Dance Passion Studio. Come dance with us today.

Reducing Anxiety Through Dance

Posted on July 28, 2017 by admin

Anxiety is often misunderstood by people who are unfamiliar with it. It is generally more than the standard stress many people feel. Clinical anxiety can be debilitating, affecting a person’s ability to function normally. A doctor may prescribe many medical treatments for anxiety, in addition to some simple lifestyle changes. Exercise and something different in the schedule may be part of those changes, and dance is a great possibility.

Dance as Therapy

Dance therapy does not have to be what many people think of when they hear the phrase—people in a gym class or office being taught “movements” that supposedly help calm them. Rather, dance therapy may simply be a doctor-approved attempt to find something healthy that gets your body moving and your mind off of anxiety.

People who struggle with problems like anxiety may find that almost any type of dance can be very therapeutic. From sassy Salsa and Tango, to graceful and soothing Ballroom dances, as long as you enjoy learning and doing, the therapy is probably working. Studies have shown that, while it may not have a curative effect, people who choose to add dance to their overall doctor-prescribed treatments see and feel real positive results.

Studies suggest that the process of learning complex steps relieves anxiety by consuming your concentration, forcing you from your overwhelming anxious thoughts onto something better. To put it simply, the mind becomes focused on something else. Dance goes beyond physical exercise—which is important, of course—because it requires a focused mind. One of the many problems with anxiety is that it clouds the mind; many describe the feeling as being overwhelmed by a mass of negative thoughts. Learning to dance leaves no room for that.

Studies on dance therapy have been conducted on patients with a number of disorders, including anxiety. In these studies, patients that spent time learning to dance generally fared better than those who did not. Dance is more than the average method for lowering anxiety; it adds fun to the method. It is a challenge, but an enjoyable one that almost anyone can undertake. It’s affordable and easy to find classes. Also, if you want company, you don’t have to do it alone. Some people’s anxiety is relieved by the presence of a trusted person—a family member, spouse or partner, friend, etc. Dance classes offer the opportunity to both relieve anxiety through movement, and through contact and comfort of others.

Of course, people with anxiety sometimes struggle with social interaction, fraught with overwhelming fears of judgement and comparing themselves to others. A person with this sort of anxiety-related issue can still dance as part of therapy. That is why private lessons exist—people sometimes need lessons in a more private environment.

Clinical anxiety can be a complex thing to treat. A doctor may prescribe many things to aid a person in maintaining a normal life and keeping the anxiety under control. Asking about dance lessons is well-worth trying; it could be an effective, affordable, fun addition to overall treatment. If your doctor thinks that dance lessons could help you manage anxiety, register for dance classes at Dance Passion Studio today.

Learning More than Steps in Dance Class

Posted on July 25, 2017 by admin

It is obvious that the primary reason for taking a dance class is learning to dance. There are other, deeper, less obvious potential reasons—exercise, socialization, romance, etc. Yet, whatever your reasons for choosing to take dance classes, there are things you may learn that you never intended. Sometimes, something like dance class can teach you things about life that you did not plan on learning, but that could hold value for you for a long time to come.

The best things in life are worth the effort.

Learning to dance takes time. Some people may learn faster than others, but even those who learn quickly will find that persistence and a can-do attitude goes a long way. It is worth it for many people; dancing is a great pleasure in life and much of the enjoyment comes from both learning, and then doing once you have learned. That is because the best, most enjoyable things in life sometimes take a little time.

However, you’ll be surprised how quickly you will learn to dance and how easy it can be when it is taught by a professional dance instructor. Plus, when you are having fun it doesn’t even seem like you have to try because you are just enjoying the moment.

Things go much faster if you remember to pause and really listen.

Most of us feel we listen to the people around us. We are told from a very young age to do so. When you take a dance class, listening and paying attention becomes very important. You have to watch and really listen to your teacher. The more you do, the faster you will learn what is being taught. Sometimes we’re reminded by something like dance that we can always be better at listening, and that, when we make the effort, certain things are improved.

Remain aware of those around you.

Whether you’re driving, walking down the street, or doing anything else, it’s essential to remember that there are others to consider in your actions. We know this and we sometimes forget it; we all get caught up on our own lives and thoughts. When you dance, you’re quickly reminded that, as you learn the steps, you must also learn how to take them without running into others. Over time, it almost becomes second nature to both dance and avoid collision with other dancers. It’s a good reminder of how important it is to keep the people around you in mind.

You may not develop perfection with practice, but you will get better if you stick to it.

You have heard the phrase, “practice makes perfect.” This may not be entirely true; it’s arguable that perfection isn’t really possible in many cases. In fact, you may have experienced this at some point in your life. However, regular practice does make you better and get you where you want to be over time. This is, yet again, something that we sometimes forget as we grow up.

Dance instructors are aware that students will need a little extra practice to get the steps down, so classes and private lessons always give students the opportunity for a little extra practice on any new steps.

If you want to learn to dance, then call us at Dance Passion Studio. We love to teach dance for many reasons—there is so much more to learn than just the steps.

Make Dance a Summertime Goal

Posted on June 29, 2017 by admin

Every season holds its own individual joys. It has its own holidays, activities that people like to do, and more. Any time is a great time to take up dance classes and lessons; dance is an any-season activity. So, why not take advantage of that this summer?

If you are making summer goals—traveling, saving money, losing weight, learning something new, or anything else—consider making dance a part of your summer goals. Here are some reasons why.

Summer is a time to enjoy.

Summer is generally a time when people do the things they want. School is out and students are ready to enjoy their vacation. People travel and seek out the more pleasurable things in life. They use their time off from work. All of this equals an excellent time to take up dance classes.

Make dance classes part of your summer fun. Your mind and body stay active, you have something to break up your summer work week, and yet another item on your list of summer pleasures. Plus, if you attend any summer events, you’ll be ready for dancing.

You can stay active and still keep your summer schedule.

For many, summer is a time to relax. However, most people also want to stay active. They want to have equal parts relaxation and activity. There is no reason why they cannot. Add some dance classes to your summer schedule. You can keep both your body and mind active; you learn something and move your body. Dance also lets you accomplish this in a comfortable setting, away from the summer heat waves. When you’re finished, you can have that nice downtime, or take what you’ve learned and use it. You can make time for classes even if your summer is full of fun plans. Dance is a positive addition to your summer.

Make some new friends.

Do you enjoy chances to get out in the summer and engage with people? Or, do you have a goal to be more social? Dance classes allow that. You never know who you’ll meet. And, if you need a little practice socializing, you can get that, too. You might just add to your list of people with whom you can have some summer fun.

By fall, you’ll be ready to dance.

Do you enjoy autumn parties and gatherings of any sort? You can show off your moves. If you’ve never really been interested in attending fall and winter events, you may find yourself ready to, once you’ve learned your new dance moves. Ultimately, you get to have fun learning in the summer, and have fun using what you’ve learned by the fall. Enjoy that autumn dance, Halloween party, or Christmas gathering and dance with confidence.

Summer is the chance to do a lot—have fun, relax, be active, learn something, go somewhere, meet people, and more. Take that chance and dance. Come to Dance Passion Studio. We have plenty of classes for you to add some fun to your summer schedule and goals.

Busting Dance Class Myths

Posted on June 15, 2017 by admin

Misconceptions and myths abound about many things, including dance classes. Some myths are pervasive enough to keep people from taking dance classes, which keeps them from potentially fun, useful experiences. Here are some of the myths that need dispelling:

“I don’t have natural talent and learning to dance will take too long.”

No one inherently knows how to dance. Professionals have to learn, too, and while they might have a natural inclination, those without that inclination can learn, as well. They can do so in as much or as little time has they want, or have. Don’t let fear that you’ll struggle stop you; you can conquer dance when you want, if you try.

“Lessons are just too expensive.”

You can take as many, or as few classes as you want, or can afford. There are also plenty of specials and offers to be had. These things add up to affordable dance classes. At Dance Passion Studio, we do our best to make sure you can afford dance classes with us because we want you to enjoy dance as much as we do. So, before you decide not to pursue dance classes because of cost, talk to us. We offer very inexpensive classes at $50 per month–$12.50 per class–or private lessons, for which you can pay as you go. We also have package discounts.

“I need a partner and I don’t have one.”

Having a partner whom you know in dance class is nice, but it’s not necessary. You can find a partner in class. In fact, you may find that you make new friends, or at least friendly acquaintances. You won’t be alone, either. There are plenty of people just like you, who will need a partner in class. Plus, once you start dancing, you and everyone around you will have a great time learning and concerns like having a partner no longer seem important.

Find out for yourself just how great dance classes can be. Visit Dance Passion Studio.

No Rhythm, No Problem: Learn to Dance

Posted on May 21, 2017 by admin

You have heard it said that some people just have “two left feet.” It’s often an excuse not to dance. Well, there is simply no excuse not to dance if it is what you want to do. If you find it difficult and feel you have no rhythm, all you need is practice with the right teacher.

Rhythm comes naturally to most people. Even those who feel they have none are typically held back by things that have nothing to do with their ability to sense rhythm. Sure, maybe they’re less inclined to it than some, but that does not mean they cannot learn it if they want.

How can someone learn to have better rhythm?

Like anything, it takes practice. There are few better ways to find your rhythm than learning to dance. First, however, you will have to overcome some of the other obstacles.

Self-consciousness is a rhythm killer. When you’re so worried about how you appear to others, you cannot truly focus on the task at hand. And, when finding the rhythm does not come easily to you, you need that focus. So, you will have to charge forward and resist the temptation to be affected by those around you. Learning to dance can help with this, too. When you take dance classes, you’re surrounded by people who are also learning to dance. They are so focused on learning their own steps that they are unaware of any struggles you may be having. And of course, your teacher is there to help you along the way, as well.

When you’ve come to the point where that insecurity no longer troubles you, you can focus on changing the way your body does movement. Dance is about movement in patterns of both time and space. Sometimes, your brain understands the patterns in sound and movement, but your body is slow to catch up. That is just fine; that’s why there is dance practice. Your body has the ability to learn these patterns; we all do it from the very first day we learned to walk. Now, you’re just moving in more complex patterns, and like your baby-self learned to walk, now your body is learning to dance.

Ren McCormack taught the rhythm-less Willard Hewitt how to find the rhythm in Footloose. I may have just been a film, but it has some truth to it. Anyone can find the rhythm and learn to dance. Come to Dance Passion Studio and let us help.

Salsa Your Way to Better Balance

Posted on May 12, 2017 by admin

Not everyone has great balance. Not everyone can hold those yoga poses for the count of ten. That is alright, though. This does not mean that you can’t do things that require balance, or even improve your balance overall.

Salsa is something that requires balance. You have to be able to step and move in various directions, one foot at a time, without falling off of the one foot that sometimes is the only thing keeping you steady as you do the move. You need to be able to step in and out quickly, and sometimes to spin. Does this sound impossible for the balance-challenged? It’s not. In fact, learning to dance can help you improve your balance significantly.

Timing

When to put your foot down and went to lift it is one of the keys to good balance, and not just during dance. Some people just have a hard time when it comes to that instinct to switch feet in order to prevent stumbling. To Salsa, you need to learn that timing. You learn how to sense the beat, and then how and when to place your foot. It takes time to learn, but if you learn when to step, you reduce the risk of being thrown off balance.

Posture

Salsa calls for good posture. It requires strong leg movements with nice, straight backs and shoulders. When your body is in a strong position like this, you’re less likely to stumble because your upper body does not waver when you step and throw you off. You learn to feel the steps rather than look down at them, which is important when it comes to reaching that state of natural balance.

Partners

Your partner is also a key to helping stay balanced. Salsa is about dancing with someone. You rely on each other to communicate and move together. A good partner will help you do more than take the right steps; he or she will provide support and physical guidance. This is a great help when you’re learning when to step and how to step. Before long, you won’t have to rely on your partner much at all, and, instead, your partner will be able to rely on you much more.

Come to Dance Passion Studio to find out just how much Salsa can improve your balance. Sign up for our classes today.

Add Some Private Dance Lessons to Your Schedule

Posted on April 20, 2017 by admin

Dance classes are fun and useful for many reasons, and for anyone. You can find classes in almost any sort of dance, and in addition to learning, you can make friends. Private lessons have their benefits, too, and some people prefer them. If you cannot choose between the two, there is no reason why you should have to do so. In fact, combining group classes with private lessons could give you double the benefits.

Private lessons mean more time for you.

Teachers do their best to accommodate all of their students during classes. The great ones know how to present lessons in ways that work for different learners. Even so, everyone could use more one-on-one time with their dance teacher. Private lessons are the best way to do that. You don’t have to give up the group class if you enjoy it; just add a few private lessons and ask your teacher to spend more time with you on the things you learned in the class.

You can refine what you’ve already learned.

You can also use the time to practice what you learned in class. That way, you can focus on learning what’s new in your next group class. Or, if things go well, you can sign up for more advanced classes, faster.

You can learn something specific while learning other dances.

During private lessons, you can certainly tackle something new, something besides what you learned in your classes. You can create almost any combination of learning you want. Take Ballroom classes and private lessons for Western dances. Take Salsa classes and private Tango lessons. Or, take any classes you like while learning something special for an event.

Whether you want to take group classes and be social, or take private dance lessons, or do both, we offer it all at Dance Passion Studio.

What Makes a Great Dance Teacher

Posted on April 13, 2017 by admin

Of the many things that make taking dance classes great, having a great teacher is one of the most important. A great teacher should truly love being a dance instructor. This love shows in many ways, including enthusiasm, flexibility, and kindness.

Enthusiasm

Great dance teachers take dance very seriously. This doesn’t mean that they aren’t capable of fun during dance; it means that they truly enjoy what they do. When this is true, their enthusiasm will be palpable. They’ll be energetic and ready to dedicate the time it takes you teach you what you want to know. A good teacher is ready to share her or his love of dance.

Flexibility

Everyone learns differently. This is something that a dance teacher must accommodate and it’s not an easy thing to do when you have a classroom full of people. A great dance teacher knows how to present the dance in ways that work for everyone and how to make sure there’s time for when individuals need a little one-on-one time. This flexibility in teaching can take a lot of work to learn and implement.

Kindness

We have all had a teacher who was less than friendly. As a result, we all know just how important it is to find a teacher with whom you can connect, who is friendly, understanding, patient, and kind. Learning something new, like dance, takes time and effort, and it can be frustrating. Having a kind teacher makes tackling the dance and the frustration much easier. These teachers are also supportive in your efforts; they reinforce your desire to learn and inspire you to continue doing so.

Come find great teachers you love at Dance Passion Studio. We have experience and the love of dance, and we enjoy teaching those who want to learn. Come have fun with us in our group classes, or get more one-on-one time with your teacher during a private lesson. We’re here to share our love of dance with you.

Dance Classes for Social Connection

Posted on March 23, 2017 by admin

Socializing does not come naturally to everyone. Some are perfectly happy that way. Others wish they knew of something to help them improve their ability to connect socially while having fun. Dance classes may just be such an activity.

Gain Confidence

Dance is more than learning steps to music. Among the things a person gains while engaging in a dance class is confidence. Confidence is one of the keys to successful social interaction. It takes self-assurance to push past fears and engage with another person, particularly a stranger. As dancers master the steps, they see evidence of their abilities to succeed. Accomplishment is a powerful thing; it can give almost anyone the boost in confidence they need to do something else, like engage with another person.

Share Something with Others

It also helps that everyone in the class is in the same circumstance; they’re all there to learn. Yes, some may be at a different level, but all will make mistakes and all will learn from them. This makes it much easier to communicate knowing that they share something with those around them. That is how friends are made—common circumstances and interests.

Communicate

To some extent, communication happens naturally in a dance class. It may be physical or verbal, but at some point, a person much engage with another human while learning to dance. There is no real pressure to carry on a conversation, but, as the class progresses, all of those fears take a backseat to the task at hand. Soon, communication comes almost naturally and better socialization often follows.

Have Fun

The best thing about using dance classes for social connection is how fun they are. Fun makes almost anything easier, whether it’s learning the steps, or learning to be more social. Come have fun with us at Dance Passion Studio. We’ll teach you to dance and you will have the chance to become more comfortable with socialization.