Why dancing makes us happy

Posted on Lifestyle And tagged Dance, Fitness, Music, Happiness

People have been dancing since ancient times, but the appetite for it has grown in recent years — particularly among older men and women.

We can feel the power of movement and groove, but what exactly makes us so happy about dancing is due to a number of factors...

We've all seen a baby dance with joy to a feel-good song. But have you ever wondered how the baby knows how to dance? The little person cannot speak, his parents have never explained the art of dance to him - and yet this small-format, non-communicating toddler somehow knows what to do. Because dancing is a natural instinct hidden within us that helps us express and communicate emotions. But dancing makes us happy in even more ways:

1. Dancing does wonders for our mental health

Dance is both therapeutic and natural. From tipping our toes to shaking our heads, we all do it without even realizing it. When we dance, our bodies release endorphins to reduce pain. These endorphins are the best medicine for depression, anxiety, and stress. Learning a new routine makes you think: A member of a “Dance for Parkinson” group explained to the “The Guardian” newspaper: “I was in a very black place mentally when I came here, but the dance keeps me alive.”

2. Dancing promotes social interaction

According to a study from Brigham Young University Loneliness kills more people than obesity. Other recent studies on social isolation have shown the huge impact loneliness can have on our wellbeing. So much so that governments around the world are fighting for all of us to look out for signs of isolation, particularly among the elderly population. The social dimension of dance is almost as important as physical activity. Dancing lessons are one of the best ways to get involved in the community and get to know others, which can do wonders for your mental wellbeing.

3. Dancing makes us relax wonderfully

It's not just about the dynamic movements to high-energy beats. The dance can also be soft and relaxing, as if you're swinging softly like a tree in the wind instead of spinning like a New York break dancer. For people who lack mobility, gentle movements in a wheelchair can promote mental and physical well-being. There are so many forms that you can use.

4. Dancing promotes self-esteem

Sometimes we need a little encouragement to go out and work out or socialize. Mixing the two can be scary. Don't let negative inner voices deprive you of the joy of dancing: enjoy it and simply let in the glory. As soon as you get over the first few minutes of inhibitions, you will not only laugh off your extra pounds in the most natural way, but also burn them off. Don't worry about screwing up the moves — even Soviet ballet dancer Rudolf Nureyev made mistakes and he's a Swan Lake superstar.

5. Dancing stimulates our creativity

Dance is a form of expression. For centuries, men and women from tribes and communities have used the art of dance to symbolize thoughts and ideas. This creativity can help us express our own feelings, and this self-expression can have a wonderful effect on our overall wellbeing.

Posted on Lifestyle And tagged Dance, Fitness, Music, Happiness.