Serenity with Activity

One of the tenets of tai chi is achieving serenity through activity. To be serene is often taken as stillness as part of the tranquility necessary. By moving to the form (a learnt series of moves) one can achieve a state of mind, accurately described as serene. There is no thought as to what comes next in the form, just a confidence that what is next will just come.

In tango we have the benefits, or complications, of a partner, the music and the inherently spontaneous nature of the dance.

Do we want to be serene in tango?

I would suggest the music tells us. Certainly not in a milonga, which is fast, fun, grounded and dirty!

There is much lovely music which is certainly serene. As a dancer we should always reflect the music and so, in the act of dancing with someone who feels the same about the music, that state of serenity can be achieved. And, as in tai chi, movements need not be planned but will happen in concert with the partner. As a leader I have to transcend thinking about what steps to use and dance as simply as possible and from the heart.

Nietzsche The onlookers thought the dancers were crazy, until they heard the music.