Learn how to use dance and movement to build relationships with people from different cultures. Discover tips on respect, openness, adaptation, fun, feedback, and growth.

While dancing, we stay in the present moment so we can keep the connection strong with the partner. Being in the here & now is key to our communication and connection. Connection is strong yet totally flexible to allow the other person to move the way they choose to. It is not restrictive, it is supportive. Like effective listening: being 100% present with the other person, listening attentively, holding the space for them and only then responding. On the dance floor, body movements replace the words. The principle remains the same though: listen deeply, intentionally to understand and communicate effectively. Stay present. It is a universal language across cultures:)

The history of dance is as varied as the cultures of the people who perform it. Dance has long been used to convey a variety of emotions, including happiness, sadness, and rage. Dance is utilised in numerous other contexts, such as a sort of therapy, a way to unwind, a sport that is competitive, an art form, and even as a means of bringing people together.😊💃

How can you build relationships with people from different cultures through dance and movement?

Dance and movement are universal languages that can transcend cultural barriers and create connections. Whether you are traveling, working, or living in a multicultural environment, you can use dance and movement to build relationships with people from different cultures. Here are some tips on how to do that.

1 Learn about the cultural context

Before you engage in dance and movement with people from different cultures, it is important to learn about the cultural context of their expressions. For example, you can research the history, meaning, and etiquette of their dances, and avoid any gestures or movements that might be offensive or inappropriate. You can also ask them questions about their preferences, expectations, and experiences with dance and movement, and listen to their stories and perspectives.

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2 Be respectful and open-minded

When you participate in dance and movement with people from different cultures, you should be respectful and open-minded. Respect their boundaries, comfort levels, and personal space, and do not force or pressure them to dance or move in a certain way. Be open-minded and curious about their styles, techniques, and rhythms, and do not judge or compare them to your own. Appreciate the diversity and richness of their expressions, and acknowledge their skills and talents.

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Julia Huth

Growth Manager at ROC | RegTech
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When I was training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, it was incredible to watch people's mindsets shift before my eyes. Strong, athletic men who were new to the sport would object to wrestling ("rolling") with the women or smaller men in the class, thinking it was beneath them and embarrassing. In a matter of a few minutes, they would be annihilated by their more skillful opponents, and sometimes, you could see their entire worldview shift in that short time. The humility and understanding that comes from learning that race, gender, socioeconomic background, and good looks don't help when you're on the mat, only time and skill do, is the reason I think that movement (especially in the form of BJJ) is one of the most powerful uniters in the world.

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3 Adapt and adjust

When you interact with people from different cultures through dance and movement, you should be flexible and adaptable. You may encounter different communication styles, norms, and expectations, and you may need to adjust your own behavior and responses accordingly. For example, you may need to use more or less eye contact, touch, or verbal feedback, depending on the culture. You may also need to adapt to different music, tempo, and mood, and follow the lead of your partners or groups.

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Handan Aribas

Leadership Development | Executive Coach | Facilitator (CPCC, ACC, ICF, WSQ:ACLP) I work with leaders to make purposeful courageous choices so they can achieve their goals faster and with a greater sense of fulfillment.
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While dancing, we stay in the present moment so we can keep the connection strong with the partner. Being in the here & now is key to our communication and connection. Connection is strong yet totally flexible to allow the other person to move the way they choose to. It is not restrictive, it is supportive. Like effective listening: being 100% present with the other person, listening attentively, holding the space for them and only then responding. On the dance floor, body movements replace the words. The principle remains the same though: listen deeply, intentionally to understand and communicate effectively. Stay present. It is a universal language across cultures:)

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4 Have fun and enjoy

The most important thing when you build relationships with people from different cultures through dance and movement is to have fun and enjoy. Dance and movement can be a great way to express yourself, release stress, and improve your mood and well-being. They can also be a great way to bond with others, share emotions, and create memories. So, don't be afraid to try new things, experiment, and improvise. Smile, laugh, and have a good time.

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Jennifer Ihesiene-analaba

Product manager|| Product Analyst|| Business developer|| Client retention through products and customer service|| TEDxAjegunle 2.0 Project Manager
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This right here is everything! In recent times, people have become guarded because they are not sure of the motives behind the want for a relationship. Applying fun helps solve that.

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5 Give feedback and appreciation

After you engage in dance and movement with people from different cultures, you should give feedback and appreciation. You can express your gratitude, admiration, and respect for their participation, contribution, and performance. You can also share your feelings, thoughts, and impressions about the experience, and ask for their feedback as well. You can also exchange contact information, invite them to join you again, or suggest other activities or events that might interest them.

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6 Keep learning and growing

Finally, you should keep learning and growing from your interactions with people from different cultures through dance and movement. You can reflect on what you learned, what you enjoyed, and what you can improve. You can also seek more opportunities to practice, explore, and discover new forms of dance and movement, and expand your repertoire and skills. You can also keep in touch with your new friends, and support their cultural expressions and events.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Tripti Jain

Business Analyst@Paytm | LinkedIn Top Data Analytics Voice | EX-TCSer | Mentor @LearnBay | I help Startups to build their presence Online through Brand Marketing🚀 | Influencer Marketing
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The history of dance is as varied as the cultures of the people who perform it. Dance has long been used to convey a variety of emotions, including happiness, sadness, and rage. Dance is utilised in numerous other contexts, such as a sort of therapy, a way to unwind, a sport that is competitive, an art form, and even as a means of bringing people together.😊💃

Like

How can you build relationships with people from different cultures through dance and movement?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Learn about the cultural context

2 Be respectful and open-minded

3 Adapt and adjust

4 Have fun and enjoy

5 Give feedback and appreciation

6 Keep learning and growing

7 Here’s what else to consider

Interpersonal Skills

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How can you build relationships with people from different cultures through dance and movement?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Learn about the cultural context

2 Be respectful and open-minded

3 Adapt and adjust

4 Have fun and enjoy

5 Give feedback and appreciation

6 Keep learning and growing

7 Here’s what else to consider

Interpersonal Skills

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Thanks for your feedback

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