A Change of Dynamics involves altering the intensity, speed, and energy of movements in our dance. Knowing how to prepare this event allows for smooth and seamless transitions. By anticipating and preparing for the change, we can execute the transition in a controlled and coordinated manner, in order to prevent abrupt or awkward shifts in the dance, and maintain the flow. For the leader, it’s very important how they create the proposal of a change of dynamics, and for the follower how they will answer this proposal.

In the previous lesson, we have learned about and practiced one of the Change of Dynamics components - the Activation. Now, we’ll be exploring another one - the Reaction. Just like with the Activation, mastering Reaction will be extremely valuable in your tango dance in general, not just in Changes of Dynamics. It will help you easily adapt to the person you’re dancing with, no matter who that person is. Remember that in social tango, we acquire the skill of dancing comfortably with persons from all over the world, even when encountering them for the first time.

The time has come to synergize all the components of Change of Dynamics that we have studied thus far, while also recalling tools from previous collections. Additionally, we’ll explore and embody the final component of Change of Dynamics: Relaxation—a remarkably valuable and indispensable element. When initiating a Change of Dynamics, it is crucial to look for the moment preceding it, known as the Preparation. Subsequently, the Follower's response emerges, which must be conveyed with clarity and attentively listened to. Through its concepts, tango teaches us a potent, organic, and empathetic mode of communication—a skill we’ll naturally transfer to all aspects of our lives.

The technique we’ll delve into and practice in this lesson, concerning the directions and intentions in leading and following, is in fact, an aspect applicable to all your movements in tango. While a first perspective may suggest that we have a single line when moving forward, delving into the intricate subtleties of tango—where its richness lies—we discover the existence of three distinct lines upon which we step. It becomes apparent that this realization transcends mere external observation; rather, it is a matter of deep internal perception.

In this lesson you’ll find invaluable tips that will help you stay grounded, enhancing your stability and security. These tips are vital for tango as a whole, particularly when implementing Change of Dynamics. Whether accelerating or decelerating, dynamic shifts can easily disrupt your balance, and consequently your partner’s axis. Remember, being in solid contact with the floor, will not only make you feel more confident, it will also transmit confidence to your partner. And this is crucial in tango and in life.

This invaluable lesson will guide you into the subtleties of the tango lead. Reflect upon this thought shared by Clarisa & Jonathan: “As we start improving our tango musicality and our ability to change the speed, we start to forget the lead. We start making everything a little bit more automatic, up to the point where we don’t listen to, and we don’t wait for our partner.” This resonates not only in tango but also in various professions, where, as we gain expertise, we can sometimes compromise our ability to remain present, curious, and attentive to our team members. It is at this juncture that we are most susceptible to making critical errors. We need to remember that an empathic leader is also a follower.

This lesson presents a slightly higher level of complexity, but if you've practiced the exercises in the previous ones, it will feel like an interesting challenge designed to elevate your tango to new heights. Why so? Not only is the Turn a complex element in tango, but also executing it while speeding up and slowing down, brings some adrenaline into the game. At the same time, imagine the level of satisfaction and rush of dopamine when achieving it. Rest assured, Clarisa & Jonathan are here to guide you through this adventure, equipping you with invaluable knowledge and exercises that will unlock new dimensions in your tango!