Dance Lessons – all the benefits
Number 6 on the Kettle List is to ‘take some dance lessons’ – which my mum and I did. Salsa lessons to be precise. We even progressed to the intermediate class – but it got a bit ‘spinny’ for me.
I come from a long line of dancers; as a child I did tap, ballet disco and ballroom. As I also want to get healthier and more flexible now, it seems like a good idea to look into other forms of dance, and what benefits they can offer.
Dance is not just a fun activity; it is also a form of exercise that has several benefits for your physical, mental, and emotional health. From improving your cardiovascular health to boosting your confidence and self-esteem, dance has something to offer everyone. Here are some of the benefits of dance that might encourage you to take up dancing as a hobby:
Improves Cardiovascular Health
Dancing is a great way to improve your cardiovascular health. Dancing involves moving your body rhythmically, which increases your heart rate and gets your blood pumping. This increased blood flow strengthens your heart and improves your overall cardiovascular health. It also helps if you’re trying to lose weight; Dancing is a fun and effective way to burn calories. Depending on the type of dance you do, you can burn up to 500 calories in just one hour of dancing. Dancing regularly can help you maintain a healthy weight and improve your overall health.
Boosts Your Mood
Dance is known to boost your mood and reduce your stress levels. When you dance, your body releases endorphins, which are the “feel-good” hormones. These hormones can help reduce anxiety and depression, and they can also improve your overall sense of well-being. There is also the fact that dancing can be a social activity that can help you connect with others and build new relationships. Whether you join a dance class or attend social dances, dancing provides a fun and interactive way to meet new people and make friends.
Increases Flexibility and Range of Motion
I’ve previously mentioned how important flexibility is, particularly as you age. Dancing involves a lot of stretching and movement, which can improve your flexibility and range of motion. This can help reduce the risk of injury, improve posture, and enhance overall physical performance.
Enhances Cognitive Function
Dancing requires you to think and remember steps, which can enhance your cognitive function. Studies have shown that dance can help you develop new neural connections, improve memory, attention, and executive function, which are all important for cognitive performance.
Boosts Self-Confidence
Dancing can also help boost your self-confidence and self-esteem. When you dance, you are expressing yourself through movement, which can help you feel more confident and comfortable in your own skin. Additionally, mastering new dance moves and performing in front of others can give you a sense of accomplishment and pride. Additionally dancing can be a great way to relieve stress and unwind after a long day. Dancing allows you to let go of your worries and focus on the present moment. This can help reduce stress levels and improve your overall mental health.
Choose your style
If you are a beginner at dancing, you may be wondering which dance style to learn first. There are many different styles of dance, each with its own unique movements and rhythms. Here are five of the most popular dance styles for beginners. Pick the ne you want to try!
- Ballet:
Ballet is a classical dance form that originated in the 15th century in Italy. It is known for its graceful movements, precise technique, and elegant costumes. Ballet focuses on developing strength, flexibility, and posture. Beginners can start with basic barre exercises to build strength and gradually progress to center work and more complex movements. Ballet is a great foundation for any dancer, as it teaches discipline, poise, and musicality. - Jazz:
Jazz dance originated in the early 20th century in America and is known for its energetic and dynamic movements. Jazz incorporates a wide range of styles, including Broadway, hip-hop, and contemporary. Jazz focuses on rhythm and musicality, and beginners can start with basic isolations and footwork before progressing to more complex choreography. Jazz is a fun and upbeat dance style that allows for a lot of creativity and expression. - Hip-hop:
Hip-hop dance originated in African American communities in the 1970s and is known for its street-style movements and urban music. Hip-hop incorporates a variety of styles, including popping, locking, and breaking. Beginners can start with basic grooves and footwork before progressing to more complex movements and tricks. Hip-hop is a high-energy dance style that allows for individual expression and creativity. - Salsa:
Salsa is a popular Latin dance style that originated in Cuba in the 1920s. It is known for its fast-paced footwork, turns, and spins. Salsa is a partner dance, and beginners can start by learning the basic steps and timing before progressing to more complex patterns and partnering techniques. Salsa is a great way to improve coordination, musicality, and social skills. - Ballroom:
Ballroom dance is a partner dance style that includes dances like the waltz, foxtrot, and tango. Ballroom dance originated in Europe in the 18th century and is known for its elegant and graceful movements. Beginners can start with basic steps and timing before progressing to more complex patterns and partnering techniques. Ballroom dance is a great way to improve posture, balance, and social skills.
Over to you
So, there we are – there are many different dance styles to choose from, and each has its own unique benefits and challenges. Whether you choose ballet, jazz, hip-hop, salsa, or ballroom, the key is to find a style that you enjoy and that challenges you to improve. With practice and dedication, you can become a skilled dancer and enjoy all the physical, mental, and emotional benefits that dance has to offer.
In conclusion, dance is an enjoyable and beneficial activity that can improve your physical, mental, and emotional health. Whether you dance for fun or as a serious hobby, there are many benefits to be gained from this art form. So, put on some music, find a dance class, and get moving!
And, of course…
As I attended dance lessons for a number of months, I can now get my digital stamp out and do this:
