![](https://www.learntodancewithfred.com/milwaukee/wp-content/uploads/sites/64/2017/02/FADS_February_Social2-1.jpg)
Valentine’s Day: Some people love it, some people hate it. But no matter how you feel about the holiday, the fact remains that it’s probably the most romantic day of the year in the U.S. The average American spends about $146.84 on gifts every Valentine’s Day to make their significant others feel loved, adding up to about $19.7 billion for this single holiday. But you don’t need expensive gifts to prove you love your significant other — all you need is a little quality time and fun. Here’s why ballroom dancing with your date will make this February 14th a magical one!
It will bring you closer.
Ballroom dancing requires two people to perform, and you’re in constant contact with each other. Sparks will fly as you hold your partner and dance in time with your music. It takes no time at all to learn some basic steps, and then you can focus on the feeling of holding one another as you glide across the floor.
Partner dancing makes you work with each other.
Teamwork makes the dream work, especially in ballroom dancing. While one partner is the designated lead, the follow has a very important role as well. Both partners must pay close attention to each other’s movements, an important form of nonverbal communication that can deepen a couple’s connection with each other. And many experts assert that couples who work together on something experience deeper trust and a stronger relationship.
People prefer experiences to gifts.
According to psychologist Matthew Killingsworth, people tend to be happier with experiences they spent money on than the objects they purchased. Matthew and other scientists think that this is because while an object can be kept or used and thrown away, an experience allows the couple to focus on each other without distractions, and provides them with lasting memories they can return to again and again.
It could end up being a new hobby for you to share.
Trying new things is a great way for a couple to find their favorite shared activity. People in relationships often have their own hobbies that they don’t share with each other, and this is important to maintain their individuality and carve out some “me time.” But having a shared hobby can make for a great go-to date idea. This new hobby, discovered on a Valentine’s Day date, can be a fun activity for the two of you for years to come.
You’ll look great at events that require dancing.
Couples attend events like weddings, balls and parties together throughout the year, and being able to dance at these events will impress everyone in the room. You’ll be more confident together if you look like you know what you’re doing as you dance together. And let’s be honest: People love to show off. If you know how to dance well, you can pull out the sweet moves you have in your pocket to stun your friends, colleagues and family members!
This Valentine’s Day, make your date know he or she is truly loved by going out on a limb and trying a new style of ballroom dance. You never know what you’ll learn about each other. For more information on how you can make your Valentine’s Day more than just another Hallmark holiday, visit your local Fred Astaire Dance Studios!