Dance

Let’s Dance!

For thousands of years, dance has provided a way to engage in physical activity, counter negativity as well as improve psychological disorders. Dancing promotes self-expression and positivity of ones physical and mental health.

As a dancer myself, primarily Ballroom, I have received many benefits through my years of dancing. Dance has taught me more than just steps. It encourages me to remain positive. Dancing continually teaches me the beauty of individuals and the power of physical activity. Most importantly it embraces the joy that can come through the combination of partnership, music, and movement. Listed below are three of the many remarkable benefits this art and activity provides.

1.Dance gets you moving and active.

Dancing is a very beneficial form of aerobic exercise. Over the years, more research has accumulated on the physical benefits. Studies have shown that not only can you lose weight by dancing (a common reason for participate), but that it can change other aspects to physical health. This may likely improve one’s quality of life and self-perception. Some of the many benefits include: improved heart and lung health, increased muscular strength and endurance. It also may create stronger bones and reduced risk of osteoporosis. Choreographed movement can also improve balance, coordination, flexibility, agility, and spatial awareness. The variety of benefits makes it an amazing form of exercise that can be enjoyed and extremely valuable for all ages!

2. Dance can counteract many negative psychological disorders and habits.

Research shows that dance provides relief, improvement, and even sometimes complete healing from many psychological disorders. Furthermore, dance can assist those struggling with abuse, trauma, violence, and sickness. Unfortunately some think the influence can also occasionally exacerbate various psychopathologies. These include body image obsession, eating disorders, or negative self-perception. However, there is far more research emphasizing the benefits that dance provides to those struggling with these challenges. How does dance counteract these psychological disorders and harmful habits? It reduces stress, creating space to self-express and heal. Additionally fluid movement helps physically by increasing levels of serotonin- the “feel good” neurotransmitter that assists in regulating anxiety, happiness, and mood.

3. Dance increases positive physical and mental well-being.

As listed above, movement can chemically increase feelings of happiness. This is due to the release of serotonin produced when enjoying this form of physical activity. There are also many social benefits associated with dance! These include connection and communication with others, learning respect, appreciation, and confidence. Also, it can affect our well-being by increasing empathy and self-acceptance when we allow ourselves to self-express and feel more present in our bodies. This deepening connection of mind and body has been shown to increase happiness and positivity.

Not only does dancing provide us with an outlet to be more present with ourselves— and others—but it is fun! It is a beautiful fusion of physical activity and music. These both have significant benefits to one’s mind and body.

Get moving!

Just as there are countless styles of dance, there is something for everyone! Whether you prefer partner or solo, they can all provide remarkable benefits physically, mentally, socially, and psychologically.

Please join us on Saturday, April 22nd 2017 for a free Recovery Workshop from 12:00-1:00pm! You can also contact Kirkland Dance Center for more information regarding their wonderful selection of classes.

KDC teaches a variety of classes including Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Modern, Ballet, and Lyrical/Contemporary.

Still hungry for more? Follow us on Facebook or Instagram. Better yet, come into one of our clinics to learn even more!