A Few Fun Flavors of Social Dancing

As humans, we are naturally social creatures. However, in our modern technological society, it can seem as if we are becoming more disconnected from one another. An awesome fun way for people to get away from the desk and meet people is through social dancing. Like every amazing experience, there are a variety of social dances to choose from. Here are just a few examples:

Salsa

Salsa is one of, if not the most popular form of partner social dance around. Salsa is a Latin social dance with Afro-Cuban roots which originated in New York City around the 1970s. It is easy to learn which makes it ideal for beginners, and the community is full of people of all backgrounds and dance skill which makes for an inclusive environment. The music, created from the sounds of the conga and clave, create the Afro-Cuban rhythms which give Salsa a very energetic Latin feel guaranteed to get your feet moving. While the primary dance in a Salsa club is Salsa, it is rarely the only style danced. Mambo, Bachata, Cha-Cha and Kizomba are some of the various styles which make a night of Salsa an adventure to remember.

Swing

Swing is a historically rebellious American social dance which has seen an increase in popularity. This style which originated in the 1920s and 1930s is mainly danced to big band and jazz music, being fast paced and bouncy in nature. It is also easy to learn, and Swing communities are very friendly and open. Like Salsa, there are many dances in the Swing family which include Charleston, Lindy Hop, Balboa, and Shag. Unlike Salsa, these dances can be mixed and matched to the same music. Someone could dance Triple Swing, Lindy Hop and Charleston all in the same song. The high level of energy in Swing makes it both a dance and an exciting cardio work out.

Argentine Tango

Argentine Tango is one of the most sensual social dances around, and to many it is also one of the hardest to learn. Argentine Tango originated in the late 19th century in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Unlike Swing and Salsa which are primarily danced to a beat or rhythm, Argentine Tango is mainly danced to the melody which includes different instruments such as the bandoneon, violin, and piano. The lack of patterned footwork makes a strong connection essential to dancing Argentine Tango; However, when danced well, dancing Argentine Tango is one of the most ethereal partnership experiences. For many, it takes time to build up a good sense of belonging to a Tango community. Argentine Tango has a closer-knit community which many perceive as cold. Though with enough time and practice, learning this art is well worth it in the end.

Social dancing has many benefits with very few disadvantages. Meeting new people, learning a new skill, and being part of a community are some of the things which makes social dancing an incredible pastime for people to dabble in.

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