This episode explores how Argentine tango can transform the way we travel, connect, and relate to ourselves. Terri speaks with Ieva Kelpsaite, a relationship coach who supports women in reconnecting with their emotions, bodies, and femininity through both her coaching and her long-time tango practice. We discuss how tango creates instant community in unfamiliar places, why shared experiences matter more than sightseeing alone, and how movement can become a path to safety, confidence, and deeper self-connection. Key topics Ieva Kelpsaite shares how her work as a relationship coach centers on helping women deepen their relationship with themselves and reconnect with their feminine essence.She explains that tango has been part of her life for 12 years and has shaped both her personal identity and her coaching approach.We discuss how tango helps women step out of a constant “doing” mode and into a space of being held, supported, and emotionally present.Ieva describes her move from Lithuania to the UK as part of an explorer mindset after finishing university and wanting to experience life in other parts of the world.She explains why tango and travel fit so naturally together because tango communities exist globally and often welcome newcomers quickly.The conversation highlights how tango festivals create shared experiences through dancing, music, culture, food, and even nature activities like kayaking and forest walks.Ieva shares that the most memorable part of travel is often not the place itself but the shared moments with other people.She explains tango as a deeply relational and spiritual practice, centered on connection rather than just steps or technique.Ieva recounts the personal story that first inspired her to try tango, including a movie scene and a milestone 30th birthday decision to book tango classes.We explore how her tango practice informs her coaching, especially around body awareness, safety, softness, and helping women feel grounded in themselves.Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Ieva Kelpsaite and the role of tango in her life 00:21 - Relationship coaching, femininity, emotions, and body connection 01:08 - How tango opens up feminine creativity and presence 02:13 - Moving out of survival mode and into enjoyment 03:20 - Lithuania, moving to the UK, and the explorer mindset 04:38 - Travel as a way to understand culture, not just take a holiday 05:09 - Argentine tango versus ballroom tango and the global tango community 06:27 - Why tango makes solo travel feel welcoming and safe 07:30 - Communication beyond language and connecting with strangers 08:29 - The tanda, three songs, and how tango reveals personality 09:53 - Festivals, competitions, and why Ieva prefers community experiences 11:02 - Montenegro, tango festivals, and combining dance with nature 11:59 - Why shared meals, laughs, and moments make travel memorable 13:07 - Choosing to explore tango more intentionally 14:32 - Feeling like something is missing when travel does not include dance 15:32 - What transformation tango creates after returning home 16:10 - Tango as a spiritual practice built on connection 17:09 - Coming back tired but soul-fed after days of dancing 19:24 - The movie scene that first inspired Ieva to learn tango 20:42 - Turning 30 and booking tango classes as a meaningful gift 21:19 - First tango club experience and feeling the dance in the body 22:48 - Deciding never to give tango up 23:19 - How tango shaped Ieva’s coaching practice 24:25 - Safety in the body, relaxation, and nervous system regulation 25:17 - Why safety is central to her work with women 26:39 - Tango as magic, femininity, and a lived Cinderella story 27:31 - Traditional roles, leadership, and the feeling of being cared for 28:52 - How tango can create healing through letting go 29:43 - Where to find Ieva online and how to connect with her Notable quotes “Tango is playing a really big part in who I am and how I support women.” “I feel like I’ve been fed on a soul level.” “It just brings magic into my life.” Contact mention Ieva says listeners can find her through her website, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube under her name, Ieva Kelpsaite. Connect with Ieva: Website: https://ievakelpsaite.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ieva.kelpsaite.3 Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/ievakelpsaite/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ievakelpsaite.relationships Thank you for listening! Follow me on: Instagram: www.instagram.com/terri_reynolds_coaching Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1GqZp4QsP5/?mibextid=wwXIfr Read my blog written for The Travel Coach Network The Terri Reynolds Chapter of The Reinvention Era with Sarah Elizabeth Unforget Yourself Podcast Wander Mag feature - The Blue Issue Pg 129
