thirty-second dance party

Thirty-second dance parties are kinda my thing. They're a burst of energy and joy in times when the overwhelm seems like it's going to swallow you whole. At my old fast-food job, after a hectic rush that left everyone mad at the world, I'd always say, "Thirty-second dance party, go!" and everyone would move and groove and let the bad stuff go until the next rush came. It's the best form of therapy I can give away. It's free, quick and easy to do... All you have to do is move.

Stressed? Thirty-second dance party.

Overwhelmed? Thirty-second dance party.

On the edge of burn-out? Thirty-second dance party.

Bored and restless? Thirty-second dance party.

Feeling uncomfortable? Thirty-second dance party.

It's my favorite way to get people to open up at the beginning of a photo session. When the sheepish wiggles at first turn into a full-blown impromptu dance routine to your favorite song, that's where the magic happens. That's where joy abounds and allows me to chase it down.

My self-portrait therapy this week made me feel inspired and alive in all the best ways. I pulled out my phone once I got to my favorite clearing, put on my favorite dance party playlist, and danced in front of my camera like there weren't three other people on the other side of the treeline. I felt free and alive after a week with a news cycle that has been so heavy. Find the joy in those moments when your heart feels tender. Thirty-second dance parties always help me to do just that.