Dance isn't just about having fun—although let's be honest, it's a lot more fun than running on a treadmill while staring at a wall. Humans have been dancing since the beginning of civilization. Every culture has its own style, and even animals get in on the action. Birds dance, bees dance, and if you've ever watched a horse after a bath, you'll know they have a few moves too.
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| (Illustrative Only) Lennox leaves Miners Castle to do a warriors dance. That is not really Miners Castle. :) 🙃 |
Dance is one of those rare activities that exercises your body, challenges your brain, tells a story, and lets you socialize—all without having to sit through another Zoom meeting. It's movement with a purpose, which is probably why it has survived for thousands of years and shows no signs of disappearing.
I've danced on and off since I was younger, but over the last seven or eight years I've become much more involved. Somehow, I even worked my way into becoming one of the advanced male dancers in our group. Whether that says something about my dancing or the shortage of men willing to wear a kilt or get their groove on is still up for debate. 🤔(Yes I got spandex shorts on under.)
Our group has been invited to perform at a Scottish festival, featuring the Highland sword dance. This group does everything putting on some of the seasonal and cultural events. If you've never seen the Highland sword dance, imagine trying to dance gracefully around crossed swords without accidentally inventing a brand-new emergency room procedure. It's a beautiful tradition—but accuracy is strongly encouraged.
I was invited to perform in the main show, which was a real compliment (Most shows I can't do but I do some and I'm easy to work with.). Unfortunately, between work, lifeguarding, sailboat racing, fishing, and trying to convince myself that I actually have free time, I couldn't commit to every rehearsal. Instead, I'll be helping teach audience members some of the basic steps before the performance (I got the basics but certainly could have used more practice.). It's a great way to participate without everyone depending on me to remember all the choreography. (In the future when I win a saber bout, which is slightly less than half against these competitive fencers, I can put down my sword and dance to it. ⚔ Rub it in a little. 🤣 I'm sure they will giggle. Got to have fun with life. :)
One thing people underestimate is how physically demanding dance really is. Spend an hour dancing and you'll quickly discover muscles you didn't know existed. It's outstanding cardiovascular exercise, improves balance, coordination, flexibility, and mental focus. Plus, unlike some workouts, people usually smile while doing it—which is always a good sign. The history of this dance is for warriors to show their stamina. History of the Highland Dance.
You can kind of get a picture of it in the Highland Sword Dance Video. Once you get the sequence you can just repeat for the most part.
As a certified fitness trainer and certified yoga instructor, I enjoy helping people become healthier through movement. Whether your goal is getting stronger, improving flexibility, losing weight, or simply being able to walk up a flight of stairs without negotiating with your lungs, I can help.
I offer virtual coaching:
- 50-minute sessions: $50
- 30-minute sessions: $30
We'll build a fitness plan that fits your goals—and no, Highland sword dancing is completely optional. There are other things you can do. Although it does make family reunions a lot more memorable.
If you're interested, reach out using the contact information or email below. Worst case, you'll get healthier. Best case, you'll have a few new dance moves the treadmill will never teach you.
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