I have been taking classes at Mambo Pa Ti now for four months and I can say that it has changed my life. The hardest thing about doing it was taking the first step and actually going to class. It was something I wanted to do for a while but just never pushed myself to go and actually do. Since I have been taking classes at Mambo Pa Ti many people have noticed a difference in me--there is a transformation that has taken place. I think much of it is because of what I learn each time I go to dance class. I consider it the same as a martial art, learning a language or how many people feel about yoga. Everytime you go to class you learn a dance lesson but also so many lessons that help you with life. Here is my experience and what I have learned at MPT:
-I have been uncomfortable. I have made lots of mistakes. Sometimes I look like an idiot. That is all GOOD! It means I am stretching and growing and without those stumbles there would be no growth.
-Almost every day I walk in and think “there is no way I am going to learn that!” and by the end of the class I have learned it and each time I get a little better. I see progress and that builds confidence.
-I practice mindfulness during class. Am I bored? Am I frustrated? Am I thinking about other things? When my mind wanders I bring it back to the present moment and when you are trying to learn a new dance move your mind really can’t go very far. It rewires the brain to bring you in the present.
-It has made me more confident and comfortable with my body
-Each time you dance with someone, you build a connection. Being a follower when I dance teaches me something every time--in life I want to predict everything--in dance you have to communicate with your partner and be in the moment. I am not always good at it but it is one of the “life lessons” I mentioned.
-The community! The community becomes huge. You will make friends who love the same thing. They will cheer you on and it becomes a safe space to be yourself and to express yourself.
I am not sure how Carlos does it--he is there every day teaching classes, being patient and enthusiastic. He has truly created something special and a place for everyone to learn and grown together. He has fun with the students and everytime I walk in to MPT--I breathe a sigh of relief. The energy, the friendships, music, and movement all out together is an incredible stress relief and centering for me. I cannot recommend Mambo Pa Ti Highly enough!