Regular practice of tango not only improves physical health but also offers a range of additional benefits. It is useful in preventing cardiovascular diseases and overweight, as well as in treating various osteoarticular and postural disorders. Additionally, it promotes neuromuscular actions that regulate blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglycerides.
"Hugs produce the release of oxytocin. Oxytocin is a hormone that has a huge impact, not only on generating emotional bonds but also on protecting the heart. It is one of the few hormones capable of cutting the axis of chronic stress, the axis of distress, the constant release of cortisol." - Dr. Mario Alonso Puig
Tango also contributes to the development of higher neurocognitive functions. By requiring attention to the steps to be performed, exercising memory, and coordinating movement both individually and in pairs, neuronal growth is stimulated, and cognitive skills are strengthened.
The medical community has observed that those who enjoy good health often maintain satisfying affective relationships. Physical contact during the embrace in tango dancing is a powerful social stimulus that facilitates mutual recognition. Through dance movements, experiences reminiscent of childhood are reproduced, satisfying basic affective needs.
In both tango and life, each couple moves forward and backward, comes close and moves away, embraces firmly and then relaxes. One leads with the feet while the other follows, facing imbalances and overcoming them together, adapting to each other's changing forces and seeking to understand each other.
Tango offers the opportunity to be recognized and to recognize, to give and receive space, to accept and be accepted. In summary, it provides an increase in physical activity in an enjoyable and fun way. So, when do we start?
Photo by Andreas Wissmann.
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