Dance therapy is a form of physical therapy practised to the rhythm of music that can fill the body with serotonin. In addition, movement therapy can be an emotional outlet and one of the ways to express your energy and talent.

In the 20th century the first dance school was opened within which ballet was revolutionized. From that point on modern dances were born – rumba, salsa and chachachá, the latter inspired by Latin and Caribbean rhythms.

Many dancers were aware of the physical and mental benefits that this activity brings, even before scientists became interested in doing research on the positive effects of this form of therapy. Today we can find countless articles related to this topic.

Such is the case of the online medical data bank Pubmed, where scientific publications on movement therapy can be found by simply entering the word “dance”.

Most popular types of modern dance

Dance is believed to be one of the earliest art forms. Depending on your taste and abilities, you can choose a modern or traditional one and let yourself be seduced by the rhythm. There is a variety of different types of dances. We will mention just a few:

Salsa is one of the most popular Latin dances. Although it is based on Caribbean rhythms, not long ago have salsa dance steps and moves spread throughout Europe. This contagious and rapid rhythm encourages you to move your entire body and triggers positive emotional response, which fills your body with serotonin, the happy hormone.

Bachata originated from the Dominican Republic. This dance consists of four-step movements to the rhythm of the music. It has had several modifications from its original form to modern style. Bachata teaches you how to improve your posture and it can increase flexibility.

Tango is a dance full of sensuality that was born in the late 1800s in the urban part of Buenos Aires. However, it became immensely popular only when it spread to the richest parts of Argentina. From there it reached Europe and the United States. Dancing tango can make you feel relaxed, de-stressed and can help you build self-confidence.

Zumba: is one of the most recent dances. The Colombian dancer Alberto Beto PérezIt  founded it in the mid-90s. Zumba is a fun fitness program that involves exercises combined with Latin-inspired music. The name ‘zumba’ derives from the word “rumba” which means ‘party’ in Colombian.

Dance therapy – health benefits

Regardless of age, dancing is a beneficial activity that helps not only improve your overall physical condition but might also enhance your brain function. Some of the positive effects of movement therapy are:

• Improves body flexibility

As you get to know your body and your moves become more fluid, your body becomes more flexible.

• Reduces stress

Numerous studies show that dancing can help you reduce stress levels and promote full body relaxation.

• Stimulates memory

Dance is a  great brain exercise. You need to concentrate on the sound of the music in order to follow sequences and learn new steps.

• Strengthens the heart

Several cardiologists recommend dancing to prevent or reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

• Helps you lose weight

It is said believed that dancing makes you lose approximately 200 calories in 30 minutes.

• Produces adrenaline and gives you energy

Most likely, after dancing you will have more energy since your body feels satisfied.

• Helps improve balance

Movement therapy can promote body balance, strengthen your hips and ankles.

• Better coordination

The brain gives your body a signal to perform certain movements, thus achieving better balance and coordination. More precisely, dance engages your whole body and the brain needs to coordinate different muscle groups at the same time.

• Lower risk of dementia

A study conducted on elderly people showed that dance therapy can help prevent the effects of Alzheimer’s and related disorders, said Dr. Estefanía Speltzer. You can find more information on this topic at the following link: Dance therapy for dementia

 

Conclusion

Martha Graham, one of the most famous American dancers of all times, said “Dance is the hidden language of the soul”, while the famous Paulo Coelho’s quote is ‘’When you dance you can enjoy the luxury of being yourself’’.

Regardless of the type of dance you choose depending on your skills and style, you do not need to be a professional dancer to fully enjoy the feeling that the rhythm of music gives you and to feel its benefits.

We recommend one of the devices to relax your muscles after a great dance class, the Donnerberg neck massager. It is the perfect solution to pamper your body anytime, anywhere.

As already mentioned, dancing has many physical and psychological benefits. We recommend you introduce a couple of hours of dance therapy into your everyday routine. Moreover, learn some new steps and get to know people with the same goal. Don’t wait any longer, let the music play!

 

References:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dance-therapy#how-it-works https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27569177/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8488360/