In this powerful episode, Dr. Maiysha Clairborne shares how communication can be seen more as a dance and less as a formula. Drawing from her experience as a salsa dancer, she compares effective communication to learning how to follow, listen, and respond in sync with a partner.
Most people learn to talk. Fewer people learn to listen with their body. Just like in salsa, where you follow your partner’s signals, communication requires listening not only with ears but also with eyes and physical awareness. When we approach communication as a dance, we are more present, fluid, and aware of the connection we’re building with others.
Why Seeing Communication as a Dance Changes Everything
Many communication experts break it down into steps: lean forward, nod, paraphrase. But communication is more than a checklist. According to Dr. Maiysha, reducing it to algorithms removes the human connection. Communication is about being in tune, adjusting with each moment, and staying aware of what others are saying through their body, tone, and energy.
This idea of communication as a dance invites us to feel more than follow rules. It calls for being present with the other person and responding in a way that’s honest and respectful to both sides. Whether you’re speaking or listening, you are always moving with someone else in a rhythm.
How to Strengthen Your Communication Flexibility
To become better at communication as a dance, Dr. Maiysha recommends focusing on four areas:
1. Listening with Your Whole Body
She teaches that listening includes ears, eyes, and your body’s sensations. For example, a child may not say they are upset, but you may feel something shift in their tone or behavior. These are signs worth tuning into.
2. Developing Emotional Intelligence
You must learn to name and regulate your emotions. Understanding your inner state helps you respond instead of react, especially in tense conversations.
3. Expanding Your Vocabulary and Phrasing
It’s not about using big words. It’s about asking better questions or saying things in a clearer way. Phrases like “Help me understand” or “Can you say that differently?” allow for smoother conversation flow.
4. Practice Outside Your Comfort Zone
Just like dancing, good communication takes practice. Each time you stretch your skills, you grow your range. The more flexible you are, the better you become at handling difficult talks.
Final Thoughts: Communication as a Dance
Seeing communication as a dance brings humanity back into how we talk and listen. When you tune in with your body, heart, and words, you show up with presence and intention. That’s when real connection happens.
If you’re leading a team, in a partnership, or simply want to improve how you relate with others, take these lessons to heart. Practice listening more deeply. Notice your own emotional cues. And instead of sticking to a formula, start dancing in your conversations.
Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha
YouTube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmaiysha
Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne
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