It’s time to get your groove on! Dance has always been a part of human culture, rituals, and celebrations, and it’s an ability innate in all of us. It doesn’t matter if you’re the best dancer in the world or you only dance alone in your room, this activity can prove more beneficial for you than climbing the party-social ladder. Of course, we already know that dancing is an enjoyable way to be more physically active, but did you know it’s great for your health, including your mental health? Yes, there’re several health benefits of dance lined up for you to enjoy.
As with many things in life, it’s easy to come up with an excuse for why you can’t do it. For example, some may blame their inability to dance on their size but that’s no excuse. Even the self-proclaimed “fat girl” – known for her appearances on the television show “My Big Fat Fabulous Life,” Whitney Thore knows how to get her groove on. And if she can do it, so can you!
Watch: Whitney dancing…
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It’s important to note that you don’t need to be an amazing dancer before you can reap the health benefits of dance. All that matters is that you can get loose and move your body — just the way you can. That is to say, no need for unnecessary twists and flips if you’re unable to do so. Dance the best way you know and watch this often ignored activity heap good things for you.
In addition, when looking to enjoy the health benefits of dance, consistency is key. Honestly, there’s no point starting something that you’ll discontinue after only a few sessions. As they say: discipline matters. So scheduling a time each day (or week) to dance, and doing that religiously, is the only way to reap the fruits. Take your lifestyle into consideration and then select a dancing session to match it.
Studies have shown that dancing can certainly improve your health. Beyond helping you lose weight, it can also increase physical confidence, and help you stay flexible, amongst others. Do you still need a reason to get your groove on?
Here are 8 amazing health benefits of dance…
#1. Minimizes stress
health-benefits-of-dance
A study conducted by the Journal of Applied Gerontology found that “partner dance accompanied by music can relieve stress.” This is because dancing releases the neurotransmitter, endorphins (aka happy hormones), which functions as a stress reliever and causes our bodies to feel calm, happy, and optimistic. Other studies have also indicated that dancing can increase levels of the hormone serotonin, which can improve your mood.
#2. Improved social and emotional health
A simple way to make friends and improve your social life is to join a dance class. And as you know, positive relationships contribute immensely to your overall mental health. A good social life and healthy mental health play a role in our emotional health as one notices improved happiness levels.
#3. Boosts memory
According to a study in The New England Journal of Medicine, dancing may boost your memory and prevent you from developing dementia as you get older. Science reveals that aerobic exercise can reverse volume loss in the hippocampus, the part of the brain that controls memory. The hippocampus naturally shrinks during late adulthood, which often leads to impaired memory and sometimes dementia. So by dancing, you add more volume to it.
#4. Helps your heart
Dancing is a low-impact cardio workout that helps to improve cardiovascular health. When you dance, it has a cardio edge with unique benefits that can’t be achieved by other low-impact exercises. Wouldn’t you rather do this for your heart?
#5. Reduces depression
Dancing definitely uplifts your spirit. If you have ever felt down and were dragged out by friends to go dancing, you will be able to attest to this fact. After that time out, you forget what was making you feel down in the first place, or at least have a clearer mind to handle it.
#6. Gives better balance
Dancing strengthens your core and your reflexes. The older we get, the frailer we become and this increases our chances of falling. However, if you join a good dance class, the techniques taught can increase body awareness and encourage low-impact landings.
#7. Increases energy
Dancing is an exercise that strengthens your bones and muscles. As your strength increases, you’ll have more energy to continue dancing. Exercise has been known to increase energy levels and that is exactly what dancing does for you.
#8. Anti-aging
Getting your groove on slows down the aging process and helps keep you looking young. When you dance, your cardiovascular system improves and your muscle tone increases. Not only does your body get younger, but your brain and mind also get younger too.
I think it’s time to dust my dancing shoes because I definitely want to be forever young. Who’s coming?
Featured image: RODNAE Productions/Pexels
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