Tango, Soul Psyche
Dance is the secret language of the soul…. Martha Graham
Although our journey at the present time in Melbourne, throughout Australia, and indeed the world, is difficult with rapid lockdowns and strict quarantine rules, hopefully we can move towards a brighter future . Perhaps we can seek to gain some sense of control over our lives and promote feelings of empowerment by planning as much as we can. Moving forward cautiously, looking at our options.
Although we live in an age of QR codes, hand sanitiser and face masks with a sense of anxiety surrounding us, might we not take this opportunity to creatively shift our priorities? This may take the form of a new health regime or a new interest, something we have always wanted to do but never got around to. Can it be possible to try and gain a sense of control by planning and and re-imagining the future?
One thing that has become obvious is that virtual interaction is no substitute for the real thing, the human touch and the connection. Something we once took for granted has been whipped away like the last piece of chocolate cake. What I have noticed, over the course of the past few months, is that new ways of connecting are popping up. Now this isn’t something that became immediately obvious to me, it was more of a gradual awareness, weaving and waning with each lockdown. Many new connections are of course on line - and aren’t we lucky to have that, our umbilical cord to the outside world, changing how we behave and interact with each other. We are now reaching out across time zones and continents, connecting with those we might not normally do. For instance, I joined a live-stream walking group through Heygo and toured the historical witch city of Salem, in Massachusetts, USA. Conducted around sunset, by a local guide sharing her perspective of the city she loves, the tour was fun and informative. it was also something I don’t think I would have done if not in lockdown, expansion outside traditional borders can be fascinating.
The Witch House Salem - only remaining building directly connected to witch trails of 1692
Humanity has become humanitarian - I have seen it evidenced on my daily walks. Boxes of lemons, or oranges, bundles of herbs, left on the footpath for passersby to help themselves. Garden clippings,, crocheted toys, riddles, poems all shared on the footpath. Plus street libraries, enriching lives by giving books. It all amounts to wanting to connect and wanting to share, giving without expecting anything in return. I know that community sharing is not something new, but it seems that the moment more of the community want to share more. I hope this community connection, and giving kindness will continue once we are out of lockdown. Let’s hope so.
What about Tango?
Will it be different, requiring a new choreography, a new way of interacting? Tango is an art form that opens up a world of mystery, often you may dance with someone and know little or nothing about them. Through a move, a brush of a foot or a look, the connection can be electrifying, intangible, the ethereal experience of touch. What is important is that we accept the situation as it stands and find positive ways of moving forward. This is a temporary, but ever changing landscape, focusing on what we can control can bring some sense to our dance world. Tango will prevail as it has in the past and solutions will be found. I can remember dancing with stylish milongueros in Buenos Aires who held a handkerchief in their left hand so as not to impose their perspiration on their partner. Something I have also experienced in Melbourne. Perhaps instead of a silk scarf, a man will wear a silk mask and a woman, a stylish bejewelled mask instead of diamanté earrings, or both. Tango fashion may take on a whole new meaning.
Criatures Misteriosas from Tango My Milonga by Gerard O’Connor and Marc Wasiak
Stretch and Bend
Although some days it may be challenging to find the energy to exercise, stretch and keep up the mobility going, it is important to stay in tune with our bodies, so that when we do resume our dancing we will be tango fit. A few years ago I undertook several stretch workshops with Kit Laughlin - Stretch Therapy. Kit and co-director Olivia Allnutt, are world authorities in stretching and strengthening. Their method is safe and efficient and suitable for everyone regardless of age or fitness level. I have found their method extremely valuable over the years.
Stretch Therapy put out a great newsletter with simple, excellent stretch exercises to help bodies stay flexible. With their permission have included a link to the newsletter which is cost free. Check it out, I am sure you will find it beneficial. The newsletter includes a featured article, a stretch video or two with stretch instructions.