Whether it’s watching or actually doing the activity, dancing is enjoyed by people of all ages. There is something about moving along to some groovy beats that seem to take all your troubles away. Whether you flaunt your every move on the dance floor or sway to your favourite songs in the car, dance is an activity that never fails to put a smile on anyone’s face. But what we may not know is that dance not only puts a smile on your face but it can also improve physical and mental health. With so many dance styles out there, you can choose any that is sure to help improve not only your physical health but your mental health as well with the benefits of dancing.

Let’s Talk About The Benefits Of Dancing

Increase strength and overall health – Dancing is a physical activity, so naturally, it assists in strengthening your bones and muscles. With an increase in strength, you will have more energy, and the more energy you have the more you will dance and the better your health will be. It’s a gift that keeps on giving. Increased levels of physical activity can keep sugar levels in control, prevent high blood and heart disease. There is also reduce risk of osteoporosis as your bones become get stronger. 

Boosts your memory

According to a study in The New England Journal, dancing may boost your memory and prevent dementia as you grow older. Other research suggests that dance can help create new connections between brain regions that are responsible for long-term memory and executive function. Dancing engages kinesthetic, rational, musical, and emotional brain functions at the same time and this can increase your neural activity. An increase in neural activity boots your retention capabilities helping to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s as well. 

Improved Flexibility

Lack of movement or performing only the same activities can lead to stiffness which can lead to discomfort and eventually an injury. Dancers are encouraged to stretch before and after dancing to avoid injury and dance freely. Continuous stretching over time helps your body create long lines and permanently lengthen your muscles which will assist in increasing your flexibility. One study found that cross-country skiers who received months of dance training showed improvements in joint mobility and muscle flexibility of the spine, as well as their speed and agility.

Increased Balance

One of the reasons dance is such a great form of physical fitness is because it incorporates movements on all planes of motion and from all directions. This movement on all planes conditions all muscles improving your balance. Dancers over the age of 80 have claimed that social dancing helped improve balance and walking speed, as well as contributing to a more stable walking pattern. According to a study in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity,  tango dancing can improve balance in ageing adults. Dancing requires a lot of fast movement and good posture, so frequent dancing will help you stabilize and gain better control of your body.

Enhance cardiovascular health

Research has found that regular moderate-intensity dancing is associated with a reduced risk of death from cardiovascular disease. Dancing increases stamina, allowing your heart rate to be steadier and promote heart health. With a steady heart rate and increase in stamina, your lungs will also get stronger as you will not experience breathlessness. Professional ballroom dancer and certified personal trainer, Leon Turetsky says that all styles of dance make for great cardio workouts since your heart rate gets challenged from executing the different moves.

Reduce Stress

Dance is expressive and allows you to escape or let loose in a way that’s usually out-of-bounds in adulthood and this can be a mood enhancement helping you to reduce stress. Various studies have suggested that dance therapy might also reduce depressions and psychological stress. Dancing to your favourite music can help you focus strictly on the moment you are in and aid in reducing the amount of cortisol your brain produces lowering your stress and tension levels.

Reduces Depression

Dance can be a very therapeutic and healthy way for people to channel their feelings. Dance can give you an outlet for your emotions by using music or movements that you connect to while in a positive environment. Dancing lift your spirits, according to a study that tested the benefits of dancing on people with depression. Patients who participated in an upbeat group dance showed the fewest depression symptoms and the most vitality.

Weight Loss

An exercise form of dancing is as helpful for weight loss as aerobics, cycling, and jogging. According to the American Diabetes Association, aerobic exercise can support weight loss or maintenance. Dancing utilizes multiple muscle groups at the same time, helping to tone your entire body. Isn’t this one of the best benefits of dancing?

Boost your confidence

Dancing is a great way to meet new friends and improves your social outlook and interacting with people is one of the best ways to improve morale and instil confidence. Any type of exercise helps boost self-esteem but something about mastering new choreography or pulling off a new move makes you feel like you are on top of the world. 

Great Fun with Great Benefits 

Dancing is a fun way to keep healthy. It is known to be good for the mind and body. The best part about dancing and benefits of dancing. is that it’s fun. It doesn’t feel like exercise and it’s perfect for someone who doesn’t wish to have a gym routine. So what are you waiting for, put on your dancing shoes and shake them up!