Taking Care of Our Souls

by Kathy S.

Our contra community brings me such joy. Together we share the magic that happens when musicians, callers, sound engineers, volunteers, and dancers co-create a safe space to express ourselves through music, movement, and physical contact. The high I get from the beat of the music and the freedom of spinning is matched only by the high I get from hundreds of smiles, the supportive frame of my partner, holding hands with strangers and close friends, and the generous laughter of everyone when I screw up. Research shows that social dancing improves our mood; is good for our brain, cardiovascular system, and balance; and boosts our immune system. I believe all that and I also believe it is good for the soul.

So here we are, at a point in history, when we most need to boost our immune systems and take care of our souls lest we be overcome with fear. And exactly when we must refrain from doing the very thing that we know helps. Why? Because the way we dance puts those we deeply care about at risk for contracting a potentially deadly disease we don’t fully understand. If you needed a visual representation of the opposite of the CDC guidelines for preventing the spread of Covid-19, use a photo of a contra dance in full swing (pun intended—we need some simple humor now too). And so dance organizers across the country are having to make the right, but still heartbreaking, decisions to cancel special events and regular dances.

So what are we to do? How can we care for ourselves and each other until we can safely be back on the dance floor, literally, in each other’s arms? Be kind to yourself. Be kind to others. Seek out safer activities in your life that bring you joy. Here’s some I’ve tried: Dance in your pajamas in your living room to Earth, Wind and Fire. Call your brother and tell him you love him. Re-watch that video of your granddaughter dancing (it must be genetic). Listen to All Classical Portland or KBOO instead of the news. Play your fiddle. Invite a friend over for lunch and wash your hands a lot. Hug back to back. Go bike riding. Read a good book. Sing along to any Willie Nelson or Etta James song. Go for a walk along the Willamette. Sit in silence. Send poetry to a friend. Savor chocolate and red wine. Watch the full moon rise. Put twice as many blueberries as usual on your cereal in the morning. I know you have a list of your own. Use it until we’re back in our hands-four. 

Kathy S., a member of Memphis Meeting, now lives in Portland Oregon and attends the Hillsdale Friends Independent Worship Group in SW Portland.