The Benefits of Dancing

Dance, like many different forms of exercise and mindfulness techniques, can be very beneficial to you and your mental health.

What is Dance?

Dance, simply put, is the movement of the body in a rhythmic way. Normally, dance is done to music and in a given space. The purpose of dance is to express an idea or emotion and to release energy. Dance can be done as a powerful impulse or as a skillfully choreographed art practiced and performed by professionals.

Types of Dance

  • Ballet
  • Ballroom
  • Belly dancing
  • Hip-Hop
  • Jazz
  • Salsa
  • Tap dancing

Motives of Dance

As mentioned previously, one of the motives of dance is the “expression and communication of emotions.” Such emotions may include happiness, sadness, and anger. These emotions can be expressed in dance through specific moves such as skipping, stamping, and jumping movements. Furthermore, dance may even express certain cultural practices such as in tribal festivities. 

Benefits of Dance

Dancing can be a great way for people of all ages to experience its mental and physical benefits:

  • Improved health conditions
  • Increased muscular strength and fitness
  • Improved balance
  • Improved mental functioning
  • Improved mental well-being
  • Increased confidence
  • Enhanced social skills