It’s been a little over two weeks since moving, and in that time an empty space filled with boxes has – with substantial help from friends – been transformed into a beautiful home. It’s been an extremely satisfying and fulfilling process.

It’s also been a very tiring one! Although I did take a week off, the rest of the time has combined unpacking, organising, administration and DIY with paid work. Something had to give, and much of that something has been sleep …

So by the time Tango Secrets rolled around at the end of week three, I was still feeling very tired.

But one thing I’ve learned about myself in the years that I’ve been dancing is that – so long as I am able to stand upright without actually falling asleep – I will always be energised by dancing, no matter how tired I may feel beforehand.

My mind knew this while my body was entirely unconvinced, but I last night picked myself up by the scruff of my neck and physically dragged myself out of the door to head off to Tango Secrets. On the train journey there, I was yawning a lot and struggling somewhat to keep my eyes open. I met a friend en route, and can’t say that I was the most sparkling of conversationalists.

The moment the first tanda began, however, I was wide awake. By the end of it, I felt full of energy. It was a truly beautiful evening, and four hours of dancing left me more rejuvenated than a solid twelve hours of sleep would have done.

I’ve had similar experiences when feeling stressed, anxious, sad and more. My conclusion is that no matter what I’m feeling … dance. Always dance.

Photo: Iuliu Illes