This article was written by Bongiwe Mati
Dancing is a fun and exciting physical activity that can be enjoyed in many forms by people of all ages. Dancing does not require people to be experts, as long as people are expressing themselves the way they hear and understand the music. Some people are self-conscious, fearing that once they get up and move, they might draw unnecessary attention and have people talking about them. The truth is, when people are in a good mood and dancing, no one bothers to look at how others are expressing their happiness.
If you are the type that is uncomfortable dancing in spaces with other people, you might want to start by practising with a friend. Dancing can be used for its possible health benefits provided below by Prudential. It can also be used as a form of exercise, a mood enhancer or a hobby just to kill time.
Following are five health benefits of dancing provided by Prudential.
- Improved Social & Emotional Health – a dance class is a great way to make new friends and branch out socially! Having positive relationships is a major contributing factor to better mental health –it can increase feelings of happiness, reduce stress, and even lead to a stronger immune system.
- Improved Flexibility – the movements associated with dance can increase flexibility and reduce stiffness. Don’t over-exert yourself though even the simple stretches associated with dancing can help ease joint pain and any soreness from other more strenuous exercises.
- Minimized Stress – a study conducted by the Journal of Applied Gerontology found that partner dance accompanied by music can relieve stress. Other studies have also shown similar results, with some indicating dance can increase levels of the hormone serotonin, which can improve your mood.
- Reduced Depression – a study looking at the effects of dance on patients experiencing depression found that those who participated in an upbeat group dance showed the least number of symptoms associated with depression and were more energetic and upbeat as a result
- Weight Loss – increased movement also usually means increased weight loss. A study in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found aerobic dance training can help you lose just as much weight as biking or jogging.
This story first appeared on Bona.
