After 40 years, ballroom still inspires me

People ask me why I still dance ballroom. After four decades of sore feet, 10-hour days and missed family events because of competitions, you might think I would be burned out. Instead, I still love ballroom dancing and can’t imagine life without it.

I started dancing at age five. I was playing soccer and had no interest at all but when a neighbor asked me to be her partner, the movements came naturally and I quickly discovered I knew what I wanted to do.

It’s not always glamorous. Most people don’t see the hours spent drilling specific moves, the arguments in rehearsals, and the disappointment when a routine falls flat on stage. But when everything comes together, the music, movement and partnership feel effortless.

There is nothing like it.

Ballroom has taught me more than posture and presence. It’s taught me patience, resilience and the importance of human connection.

I realized that movement can be healing. Ballroom can turn a bad day into a good day. It can allow you to break free from your problems if only temporarily.

As a professional dancer and teacher, I see what ballroom dance has done for others. Helping people discover confidence, strength and joy is what keeps me motivated. To see what we can accomplish at each showcase, each competition, and even each lesson, gives me a sense of satisfaction I can’t get from any other place.

That’s why I still dance ballroom. It’s not simply a hobby or even a career – it’s my way of connecting with people, expressing my soul and celebrating the beauty of movement. For me, dance is not just something I do, it’s a large part of who I am.

Even after all these years, I still get nervous before stepping onto the floor. I still feel excited when the music starts and proud when I see students accomplish something they once thought was impossible. That feeling never really goes away.

Ballroom dancing has given me friendships, memories, challenges, and purpose throughout my life. As long as I can move, teach and share this passion with others, I will keep dancing.

Sandro Virag is a partner and instructor at Hilton Head Ballroom Dance Studio of Hilton Head, hiltonheadballroom.com.