Brussels truly is the European capital, and we find it hilarious that three ladies attending the lessons have a Greek background.
This is about two ladies with Greek roots.
Georgia is, of course, Belgian, but Christina also attends the lessons. Christina works for Europe and is blind due to the disease Retinitis Pigmentosa. It’s funny how every week during the lessons, we learn new Greek words.
Besides couple dancing in salsa, bachata, and kizomba, it’s always interesting to learn some solo moves, especially for ladies.
In a first attempt, I teach the ladies the well-known hairbrush move (the same in all dance styles).
Here is the definition of the "hairbrush":
It is a movement used in the lady styling of salsa. In lady styling, dancers often add personal touches and embellishments to their dance, and the "hairbrush" is one such example. It involves using the hands to move through the hair in an elegant and rhythmic way, adding extra flair and expression to the dance. It can be included in solo routines or even in partner dances to let the female dancer shine and showcase her unique style.
For 15 years, I have been advocating the same approach in all lessons:
In the world of dance and self-expression, every woman shines as a unique entity with her own style and personality. It is unfortunate that in our current society, where appearances often take center stage, so many women feel insecure on the dance floor. Over the years, I have tried to convince every woman that she doesn’t need to be like others to be attractive.
It’s all about embracing your uniqueness, finding your own strength and energy, and exuding self-confidence. When a woman follows her own path and embraces her own style, she radiates a natural allure that draws others to her.
That’s why I find lady styling in dance very important. In couple dance, you return to the essence of dancing in partnership, and lady styling is what adds that extra touch. It must be said, in couple dancing, the follower’s role in styling is very important, so it makes sense that I also want to pay attention to it in dance for the blind and visually impaired. Lady styling adds that extra spice. It makes the dance dynamic, sensual, elegant, beautiful, and aesthetic.
I express my utmost gratitude to both Christina and Georgia. This is because they dare to take this next step. I want to tell both ladies how much confidence they are demonstrating by giving me the opportunity to explore these first steps in lady styling for the blind and visually impaired. What is so exceptionally interesting about lady styling for the blind and visually impaired is that it requires motor actions that are not normally used.
Because who, as a blind person, needs a “hairbrush move”?
What is it good for? What is its purpose?
I am therefore happy and proud that these two ladies, at first glance, want to take on this challenge with me. I promise them results in the near future, and I am sure it will influence their motor arm-leg coordination and build their dance confidence.
I was allowed to use this video to show everyone what it’s about. We’re happy to demonstrate it to you, and maybe you’ll want to try it yourself:
Start in the basic position, with the ladies ready to dance on the first beat of the salsa rhythm.
1. Move in sync with the rhythm of the feet and legs. Alternately and consecutively bring one arm over the head while the other arm remains at rest.
2. Lift the arm upward from the waist with the palm facing down.
3. Turn the palm inward as the arm moves above the head.
4. Place the palm on the hair behind the ear and touch the earlobe with the middle finger.
5. Slide the hand along the neck over the chest (above the breasts) and down the side of the arm on the same side.
6. Repeat the arm styling for the next count, starting with the other arm.
7. Continue dancing to the salsa rhythm, initially skipping the 4th and 8th counts.
This sequence ensures a smooth execution of the arm styling that synchronizes with the dance steps and the rhythm of the salsa.
And because I naturally think ahead, I wanted them to perform it synchronously!
Georgia and Christina, the dance world thanks you!!! We will keep going with this….
Video 1: Georgia and Christina are standing against a wall, performing the hairbrush move in sync.