There are many reasons why codependent & toxic relationships are often referred to as a dance. Your codependent partner or the narcissist in your life may be dancing to their own tune for one. When you’re in a codependent or toxic relationship, you’re often in sync with the other person. This could be because you’re dependent on them or because they’re controlling your moves. In both cases, you’ll feel as if you’re dancing to that person’s tune and your life will be dictated by their needs.