Got to Dance: The Mental and Physical Benefits of Dance

A Lack of physical activity among people is a major indicator of poor health outcomes such as obesity, diabetes, and depression. In order to avoid these health problems, participating in physical activity, be it going to the gym, walking the dog, or dancing in the kitchen, is probably the most fun life way to change your life style. Dance is especially beneficial for its numerous health benefits. It’s not just what a ballerina does as she flies across the stage with a single leap. Whether you are 2 or 102, dancing is something that everyone can do. Not only is it an art or a great form of exercise, it is also an activity that unites the mind and the body. Studios and gyms offer classes for all ages so that anyone can take up dance as a new hobby. Unlike other activities that can become frustrating when improvements aren’t seen fairly quickly, dance is perfect for those who seek self-mastery because you are not competing with anyone but yourself. And once you start seeing changes in your physical health and mental health, it becomes an addiction and the drive to keep going and to get better comes naturally.  

Mental Benefits:

• Increased self-esteem

• Improved social skills

• Increased Cognitive function in the elderly

• Reduced Stress

• Reduced effects of dementia

• Increased use of both left and right brain

• Improved problem solving skills

• Improved spatial awareness

• Increased pain tolerance

Physical health benefits:

• Improves body composition

• Increased Muscular strength and endurance
  
• Improved cardiorespiratory function
  
• Better Balance
  
• Increased functional abilities for daily living
  
• Increased bone density
• Decreased chance of developing cardiovascular problems in adulthood
•  Improved overall strength in the elderly