“Inexhaustible power,” “magic influence” – one can hardly describe the Bulgarian folk dances with just a few words or labels. These dances have preserved the spirituality of Bulgarians throughout the centuries. They bring vitality and positive emotions entwined in the unique odd rhythms. Recently, more and more young people, enthralled by the magic of folk dances, have started to rediscover their wealth. One of them is Maria Delimihaleva, for whom folk dances are not only a relief from stress and tension but also a way toprovide emotional and mental recharge:

"You feel a new kind of energy, and when you start dancing with the people next to you, it feels there is some electricity going through you," Mariasays.”In the grip of the same love for dances and passion, we get immersed into the rhythm of Bulgarian folk dances.People who have not experienced their magic can not understand it. Moreover, the contacts you create with other people are incredible. We have found great friendships with all those people who have decided to dedicate part of their time to folk dances. I myself am glad that nowadays increasing number of young people are interested in Bulgarian folklore and have the desire to study it, to immerse themselves in it and its atmosphere. It is part of us, of our essence, of preserving ourselves as a nation, as people who have valuable heritage. That's why dances bring me so much satisfaction. Through dancing, I contribute to preserving part of our culture and a part of us. In this way we turn intoguardians of Bulgarian folklore and of Bulgarian traditions."

For those who have started to love the rhythm of Bulgarian folk dances, satisfaction is incomparable.

"Certainly, dancing has a positive effect on the spirit as they bring such a positive emotion and energy,”DankoPolyakovsays. “He goes to dances twice a week. "One always starts thinking more positively, trying to be one with others, because folk dances are not something individual. To get into the rhythm, you have to be in harmony with others, find the connection with them, sometimes ignore your own emotions and moods, or reach out to the man who may not be in the right mood. Folk dances have a very positive effect on me and they make me more patient to the people around me, more open and empathetic. When I dance I go to a different dimension. We all forget the petty problems of everyday life. Even when I encounter some difficulties, rather than fall into despair and frustration, I encourage myself to develop, change, absorb new things. Laughter also has a positive effect as we really have fun even when we are learning new dances or coordinating the movements of hands and feet."

For people who enjoy folk dances,emotions continue after rehearsals. They often travel together not only across Bulgaria but also in neighboring Balkan countries, where folklore events are regularly organized and dancers gather to have good time.

English: Alexander Markov