Live Like You Were Dying

Life is full of ups and downs. All we can do is make the most of it and one way to do that is through dance. For me, dance is not only a way to express myself, but also a way to destress and release any pent up tensions from everyday life.

If you were to ask a dancer why they dance, there are a few common reasons why.

1. To connect with others

2. Express feelings

3. Makes you feel alive

4. It is part of their identity

5. It brings me joy

6. It makes me feel free

Dance is a way of self expression. Not only does dancing allow one to separate themselves from the world, dancing is a way to share emotions with others. It requires no words to get your point across.

For me, dance is a new interest. I did not dance before coming to college. But after my first semester of ballroom classes and western swing, I do not want to stop anytime soon. Dance is a way for me to leave the stress of everyday life behind. It is my escape and it is what keeps me going when things seem hard.

If you want to know more about why me and my friends love swing, check out this video.

Swing has always been a means of escape for me. In fact, this semester I have learned that I love swing dancing in Provo. I go to this place #peaknights with my friends. The founder is honestly one of the coolest people and we have become pretty good friends.

Even if swing is not your thing, take a minute to watch the video so that you can understand why it is so important to me, and if you don't, just know that swing is where I go when I need a confidence boost. It is my safe space when I feel like there is no where to go. It is where I feel like I can be 100% me.

I love ballroom dancing as well. I have done tango, waltz, foxtrot, cha cha, quickstep, Viennese waltz, triple swing and west coast swing. Even though I never considered myself a dancer, that is pretty much all I do now. Swing and ballroom are how I express myself and they are honestly what keep me sane. Because I love it so much, I would always encourage everyone to give it a try.

Now that you know a little bit about my love for dance, I feel as though you know me a bit better. From the little things like hanging out with friends, to learning new moves, to showing off, swing has been my safe haven. It has been my escape from the chaos of everyday life and drama. #countrydancing #countryswingdancing #countryswing