As we continue to celebrate #GoBlue, we will be sharing a few of the
There is much focus on living a healthy lifestyle, with each person interpreting this differently. The World Health Organisation describes it as “health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”. As you age, sadly you may experience physical problems and become more susceptible to injuries. For some, it may be that you struggle mentally with memory issues or feel more socially isolated than when you were younger.
Stepping out onto the dance floor is a fun and social way to improve your physical and mental well-being. No matter your age or ability, passion and a desire for fun is all you need for dancing to get you mentally and physically fit.
How does dancing improve your Physical well-being?
Dancing is a wonderful cardio workout, with the impact lower on your joints and muscles in comparison to other forms of exercise. For some of us, getting to the gym is really tough and often the repetitive movements make exercise feel like real hard ‘work’. Dancing is a more leisurely, social activity where you can express yourself through gentle or vigorous movement to achieve a
Whether you love the big and bold dances or the gentler and serene, you will benefit greatly from improved coordination, balance and strength. A beautiful waltz or jumping jive are both equally good workouts increasing your fitness level and flexibility. You naturally build and strengthen muscles in your calves and legs and create shapely shoulders from your beautiful hold. Your joints will really appreciate that you took to the dance floor.
How does dancing improve your mental well-being?
If you love to express yourself, dancing is for you. Whether alone, with a partner or in a group; dancing is known to release happy hormones through gentle aerobic exercise! For some, dance is an emotional healing tool, while others have found that it has indeed healed parts of their brain – especially the area that controls memory.
Dr Arthur Bird, who has explored alternative forms of exercise for older people, explained that studies show that frequent dancing can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia as well as being beneficial for those with Parkinson’s. You will find most dancers are always thinking one step ahead and many find this filtering into their lives in other ways.
Get on the dance floor and meet new friends through this wonderful safe creative escape away from the stress of your world. While you may never be part of the Strictly Come Dancing cast (although set the bar high for yourself), you can create your own fun. Build your confidence through a cheeky cha-cha-cha or enjoy expressing yourself through a Rumba or Foxtrot; no matter the dance you are mentally escaping and mastering a new skill.
Although Ballroom and Latin are my principle dance forms and where I am most happy, there are many other disciplines as well. Whether it is Line Dancing, Ballet, Belly dancing, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Salsa, Spanish, Square Dancing, Tap dancing, Irish dancing and of course Ballroom and Latin Dancing; you are never too old to try a new style.
There are countless reasons why dance is good for you – the biggest bonus being that not only are you becoming physically fit, but mentally fit too. Dancing has no age limit or skill level. As long as you are moving to the beat and having fun while doing it you are already benefiting!
Have any questions? Contact Genevieve on genmichau@gmail.com
If you are looking for a dance school in your area, Google dance studios in your area, or have a look at https://www.snupit.co.za/pietermaritzburg/dance-classes, they offer a wide range of studios for all dance disciplines.
The #GoBlue campaign, from 9 September to 13 October, needs YOUR help. It is designed to draw attention to the needs of seniors in the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands community. Sharing #GoBlue articles is one of the ways you can help. You can share it by forwarding this one via email, downloading articles from the PADCA website or sharing them on social media from PADCA’s Facebook page.