There are a number of different types of dancing that one can do, from a range of disco dancing to ballroom dancing. Dance is a way for people to celebrate what they are going through, as well as using it to form part of rituals across different cultures. Dancing allows an individual to express themselves in a way that no other medium would allow them. It is also an excellent way to stay fit and healthy because it is a full-body workout.
6 Benefits of Dancing:
1. Improves self-esteem
Besides working out and helping you lose weight; dancing also offers you the ability to master a new skill. When we learn something new, it improves our confidence which then affects how we see ourselves. In addition to this, it is also a fun way to lose weight or maintain your weight since dancing burns a substantial amount of calories. Thus, you’ll also feel better about the way that you look.
2. Decreases stress levels
Dancing is a way which allows us to express ourselves and how we’re feeling. Through dance, we can let loose and forget our day-to-day stressors at that moment. This leads us to have a better mood and reduces our chance of depression.
3. Improves cardiovascular health
Besides offering mental health benefits, dancing can also improve your physical health. Dancing involves a lot of cardio which can be excellent to improve your heart strength. Hence, you are then less likely to suffer from any heart-related health issues.
4. Prevents memory loss
Dancing often requires you to learn several choreographed routines and moves. In this way, it helps you keep your mind active because you would need to make a conscious effort to remember what you have learned.
5. Increase your social circle
Feeling socially connected to others and interacting with them is vital for our mental health. Therefore, if you choose to join a dancing class, it will give you the chance to connect with others through something that you have in common. It would be a fun and light way to pass your time with others.
6. Enhances core strength
Dancing is an all-body sport which allows you to strengthen your muscles. It is a sport which requires balance and helps you train muscles which you might not have been able to train otherwise. All of this would therefore help one enhance their overall core strength.
As can be seen, dancing is an excellent sport for any age. You can also choose to dance on your own, with a partner or in a group. There are several places where you can take up dancing – at a dance class, at a social event or even in your living room. Simply pick which style of dancing interests you the most, and then try it out on your own or look up dancing classes which offer it!
If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue you can reach out here.
Mandy Brincat is a Gestalt psychotherapist who enjoys working therapeutically with adults on various issues, such as general mental health and wellbeing. She also has experience working with children with anxiety and day to day stressful problems, and on relational issues with couples.
References:
- Eckelkamp, S. (2020, November 20). Why Dancing Is Amazing for You Even If You Suck. Greatist. https://greatist.com/health/benefits-of-dance#brain-benefits
- Groth, L. (2022, July 6). 9 Ways Dancing Is Good for Your Health. EverydayHealth.com. https://www.everydayhealth.com/fitness-pictures/health-benefits-of-dance.aspx