The Hedgehog Can Never Be Buggered at All.

(T. Pratchett)

Hedgehogs consist mainly of spines. Beginners in tango consist mainly of defenses.

We are afraid of intimacy, even the symbol of intimacy, which is a hug, an embrace. Intimacy is where we received our most significant traumas. We are afraid of vulnerability, we are afraid to reveal and open ourselves. And not without good reason. If you open yourself, you shall be hurt, it shall happen, you cannot avoid it.

We need our spines. Defenses help us to survive and save from acute pain, but prevent us from moving freely, from approaching others. No wonder Garciela Gonzales said, «a good partner is the one who knows how to embrace».

Although the hedgehogs somehow adapted, they even learned to make baby-hedgehogs. Many adapted in tango too. Imitating a hug is even easier than imitating an orgasm.

There are also hedgehogs with inward spines. They only prick themselves and few people notice it. They are pleasant to touch and nobody knows what’s wrong with them.

In tango you feel how the defenses shackle you, you may listen to smart advice and throw them away too hasty. Thus, other hedgehogs will prick you.

Or you can eventually get the experience of safe intimacy and learn how to make your spines softer. And not really snuggle up to strangers.

Hedgehogs have charming paws and warm soft tummies. Though they consist mainly of spines.

c)
Igor Zabuta, izabuta.com; 
Emma Kologrivova, kologrivova.com;
dancing psychotherapists

P.S. The original text is in Russian. Please contact us if you can improve this translation.

More texts in Russian: tango-therapy.com.ua/wp/