Slow dance

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Slow dancing is a type of partner dance in which a couple dance slowly, swaying to the music. This is usually done to very slow-beat songs.

"Slow dancing" can refer to any slow couple dance, but is often associated with a particular, simple style of dance performed by middle school and high school students. When two partners dance together, the partner who leads typically places one hand on the sides of the followers hips or waist, and the follower places their hands on the leader's shoulders. The couple then sways back and forth with the music. Foot movement is minimal, but the couple may use their feet to slowly turn on the spot. Because the dance requires little physical concentration, participants often talk to each other while dancing. Some couples who have a close relationship may dance very closely together, in a "hug-and-sway" fashion.

This simple form of slow dancing is common at dances sponsored by schools or by religious organizations, such as churches or synagogues. In Western popular culture, slow dancing can serve as a symbol of adolescent social awkwardness.

Slow dance

See also