We FINALLY have mild weather here in Portland! Yay! As it warms up, I always like to remind folks about a few things that help to make going to the milonga more fun. I find this to be true this year even more, as I emerge from wearing a face mask on and off for four years.
Air out your summer clothing
If your milonga clothes have been hiding in a closet for the winter, AIR THEM OUT! If your clothing smells musty, people who are sensitive may avoid you. With this sunny weather, you can hang your outfit outside for a few hours, and it will smell wonderful!
Mints do not always work
Brush your teeth and/or use mouthwash before the dance. We try to always have mints available, but sometimes that is not enough. If a friend has bad breath, a good friend mentions it! I know I always appreciate that feedback myself, even if it feels difficult to address the subject.
Limit the cologne
Many people are finding that, after four years of masking, cologne seems more overwhelming than before COVID. Add it to the seasonal allergies lurking with all the blooming flowers, and ACHOO! If you love perfume, a small amount does not affect most people. Some of us are very allergic to smells; so, don’t feel offended if someone declines to dance with you because of the scent.
And then there is body odor . . .
Clean humans smell good to most people. There will always be that one person who smells strange to your nose, but shorter dancers may spend a significant amount of time near taller dancers’ armpits. Make sure their experience of your shirt and you is a pleasant experience.