---
title: 1 Close Embrace
description: 
published: true
date: 2026-04-28T08:02:00.567Z
tags: Blues
editor: markdown
dateCreated: 2026-04-28T08:02:00.567Z
---

<div style="width: 100%; max-width: 1400px; margin: 0;">
<div style="position: relative; width: 100%; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; overflow: hidden;">
<iframe src="https://video.terbits.xyz/player.html?src=videos/Bluesrooms/Begginer-Survival-Kit/Ballroom-Blues/1_Close%20Embrace.mp4" style="position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; border: 0;" allowfullscreen allow="autoplay; fullscreen"></iframe>
</div>
</div>

## FOCUS 
- This lesson introduces the Close Embrace technique in ballroom blues, focusing on achieving a comfortable and connected dancing hug through proper posture and relaxed arm placement.
## TIP & TRICKS:
- Maintain an upright posture with weight centered in the middle of the feet for better connection.
- Keep arms relaxed and light, resting on your partner without clamping down or squeezing.
- Look over your partner's shoulder with a straight neck to avoid head dropping and tension.
- Use a 'deflate button' on the chest to release tension if you or your partner feel too stiff.
- Imagine being slightly melted chocolate bars that squish together softly when connecting.

##REMEMBER
- Connect based on your own posture and height, adjusting naturally to size differences without compromising form.
- Avoid connecting heads to prevent discomfort and maintain a nice open V position for ease of movement.
- Ensure both partners are balanced independently, not relying on each other for support during steps.
- Keep shoulders relaxed to prevent tension from creeping up into the hands and arms.
- Practice with a forward connection into your partner, maintaining posture even when stepping back.
