8 dancing Benefits

There’s something about grooving to the sound of music that seems to take all of our cares away.
Maybe it’s the rhythm of your favorite tunes or the heart-pumping workout that gets you up and off the couch. Or perhaps it’s the challenge of mastering the more complicated moves that brings you so much joy.
Regardless of your reasons, one thing’s for sure: The physical, mental, and emotional health benefits of dancing are endless.

Benefits of dance

Whether you’re 80 years young or 8 years old, engaging in physical activities that involve dance changes you.

From better physical and mental health to a boost in emotional and social well-being, moving your body to the sound of music can transform your life.

Physical
Dance is exercise, so the physical benefits of dancing will be similar to that of other cardio activities.
 

1. Improves cardiovascular health

The heart-pumping health benefits of dance are right in line with the Department of Health and Human Services’ physical activity guidelines for adults. It states for health benefits, adults should do:

• at least 150 minutes to 300 minutes per week of moderateintensity exercise, or
• 75 minutes to 150 minutes per week of vigorousintensity aerobic physical activity

2. Improves balance and strength

Professional dancer Jonathan Tylicki, says 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, which turns on and conditions all muscles.
            This type of movement not only increases strength, it also improves balance.
 

3. Gentle on your body

Many forms of dancing, such as ballroom, are appropriate for people with limited mobility or chronic health issues.

Mental
 

4. Boosts cognitive performance

If you need a reason to get moving, consider this: A lot of research shows how dancing can maintain and even boost your ability to think as you age.
According to some studies, scientists have found that the areas of the brain that control memory and skills, such as planning and organizing, improve with exercise like dance.

       5. Challenges your brain

The brain power you need to access for dance, specifically, requires you to focus on both the constant changing of movement and recalling moves and patterns.
This is an excellent form of mental exercise for your mind, regardless of your age.

Emotional
 

6. Is inclusive

One of the greatest things about dance is that anyone can participate. If you’re able to move, even if it’s only your upper body, you can dance.
 

7. Can be a social activity

While you may prefer to bust a move when no one is watching, there’s something incredible about dancing with others, it is is good for your social and emotional health.
 

8. Helps boost your mood

“Movement and dance are extremely expressive, which can allow you to escape and let loose,”  professional dancer Tylicki said. It’s this “letting loose” that helps improve your mental and emotional health by reducing stress, decreasing the symptoms of anxiety and depression, and boosting your self-esteem.
 

Sources: Health Line