Merel came running into the dance workshop only 5 minutes before it started. Busy workday and a traffic jam. She did not like it having to hurry. She would much rather start her workshop feeling relaxed.
But how, she asked me. Well, I have put down 5 tips right here. For her and for you.
It is obvious, but sometimes not so easy to achieve, due to our busy work schedules and family life.
Firstly: Find out in advance how long it will take you to get from your work or home to the dance workshop. Add 15 minutes for detours of traffic jams. Set your phone’s alarm and make sure you really leave when it goes off.
Secondly, put your bag, with dance outfit and shoes, in advance at your front door or in your car. It will be most relaxing if you can arrive at the location 15 minutes before the start of the workshop That way you can ‘land’, prepare mentally and summon your focus.
When you are on time, you can also have a chat with some people you know. Or meet some nice, new people
Do you remember that your mother used to say you had to prepare your gym bag for the next day? That is still a very good idea. It will give you a relaxed feeling, knowing you have everything you need in your bag.
Go ahead and read your instructions again the day before the workshop. And get together everything you need for this workshop. Are you missing anything? Now you have some time to ask someone to borrow it from or buy it.
You can imagine that it will disturb your flow and mindset if you need to leave the room. When you get back, you will have missed something. And have to get back in the atmosphere of the class.
So, again, like we learned when we were younger, a quick visit to the toilet before you go somewhere or start an activity will keep you relaxed.
You will want to give all your attention to dancing, enjoying the music, and just enjoying the whole experience.. So make sure your hair is secure in place, so it does not get in your eyes or comes down. And you have to spend time fixing it.
Put on your outfit at home. Check how you look in your mirror and do a few dance moves. An ill-fitting outfit can ruin your dance workshop and does not make you feel relaxed.
Lastly, go into the location and look around. Are there people inside? If yes, see where there is a spot for you where you have room to move. Are you the first one in? Lucky you! You can stand where ever you want.
Think about where you feel most comfortable. You may want to try out a few spots to determine your favorite spot. Do you want support from your fellow dancers? Go stand in the middle. Do you prefer seeing yourself in the mirror? Take a spot in front of the mirror. Where will your workshop leader be standing when she/he demonstrates? The workshop leader will be moving around the room, but will also have a favorite spot. Do you want to be able to really see the exercise? Go stand near your workshop leader.
Then one last tip for moving or dancing across the floor: dance with a more seasoned dancer to better yourself. Copying and just dancing along will help.
Also visit our sister page http://www.balletconsultant.nl for more tips and advice about taking up dance classes.