3 Contrabody in Close Embrace

COURSE: Contra-Body Adventure

FOCUS: This lesson focuses on practicing contra-body movements with a partner in close embrace, aiming to integrate previous skills while traveling or redirecting in the dance.

TIP & TRICKS:

• Start with weight on the left foot for all participants.
• Keep the arm connected to the body and avoid isolating movements.
• Followers should maintain a relaxed upper body to allow a soft, swinging action.
• Leaders should use a swing in the hip area to signal direction changes.
• Practice traveling forwards and backwards or staying in place with taps.

REMEMBER:

• Contra-body movement should be generated from relaxation, not muscular tension, to avoid blocking your partner.
• Use your whole body, not just isolated legs, to signal changes in direction for better partner connection.
• Maintain a soft and squishy spine and torso to support both close embrace and swinging actions.
• Focus on keeping the embrace close while allowing the contra-body to flow smoothly during practice.