When I tell someone I’m a dancer, more specifically a ballet dancer, the first thing that comes to the mind of most people are those pink satin shoes that have a block at the end of them, called pointe shoes. While I do use pointe shoes, I grew up doing various styles of dance.
I’ve seen the benefits pour into my life, and I’ve watched little me’s dance dreams come true because of it.
Ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical, musical theatre, contemporary and even ballroom dancing are the styles I have experience in; plus years of performing and competitive dance. The dance life has been mine since I was just 6 years old.
Now, just one month from 21 years old, I am still dancing and have now returned to class after summer break. Yay for Nutcracker season!
I truly believe that everyone, at one point or another, should take at least one dance class in their life, but this does not have to be a scary thing. No one is expecting a prima ballerina after one Zumba class; and you can also be of any age.
Whether it’s your whole body, just upper or just lower, anyone can do a little jig.
Self-expression
This is a big one for a lot of people. Dancing is different from theatre. Dance is an art form that can be executed without speaking, and this is often seen as a comfort blanket for individuals; a safe space to be themselves without offering an explanation.
“Dancing makes people in tune with their bodies in ways that are [emotional] and [intellectual] through the expression of movement,” said Kathy Luo, an assistant professor of dance at Fresno State. “Dance builds rapport among people by honoring culture, traditions and diversity in one’s identity.”
Growing up, I struggled with a very heavy lisp, and as a girl dealing with some insecurities and trying to figure out who I was, dance never failed to make me feel beautiful. No one had to hear my lisp and pick on me while I was dancing. It was an escape from reality for a couple of hours that I always wished would just last a few seconds more.
Today’s youth live in a complex world, with rising technology and even more stereotypes to live by than the year before. Youth and young adults, though this is not limited to them, are the most common age group to fall victim to challenges like depression and anxiety. Dance has proven to be a successful stress reliever, releasing endorphins such as dopamine, and an opportunity to simply connect with the music, according to Diplomatic Courier.
Muscle toning and weight management
Dance requires an immense amount of strength and stamina; it requires the use of every muscle group in the body. One thing about dancers is that we’re great at multitasking.
We’re often thinking of 10 or more muscle groups to be activated in different ways while dancing. Even just the amount of muscle use while we’re simply standing still is engaging every part of our body.
Not everyone wants to go to the gym to begin their fitness journey, and that is okay. Dance offers various types of exercise options, such as fast-paced cardio workouts in Zumba classes, slower and more sustained movement in ballet classes or a mix of everything you desire in a few short classes a week. The possibilities really are endless. Take a tap class. Tap is great for challenging the brain as you are literally creating the rhythm with your feet.
Dancing is a very efficient way to get your body moving, blood flowing, sweat dripping and calories burning. A plus is that it tends to be much more fun than a regular workout routine, but maybe I’m a little biased.
Improved health
Dancing has qualities that can improve the conditions of the heart and lungs, improve muscular strength, endurance and motor fitness. Types of physical activity, like dance for example, have also been shown to prevent and/or treat certain diseases like cancer, diabetes, strokes and high blood pressure.
With the constant movement and flow of the body, this activity also has the capability of reducing physical tension, as well as reducing cognitive and kinesthetic lack, making sure the brain and body are moving consistently as one.
Dance even has the ability to contribute to the process of healing post-injury. Physical therapy style dancing, using every little muscle, ligament, joint, etc., is great for athletes who are just coming off an injury and want to stay active, but are not quite ready to fully return to whatever sport they may be a part of.
Just like any type of exercise, the benefits show that it positively affects individuals and their health journeys; however, it’s just more fun.
“A single dance class can strengthen the body, improve posture and boost stamina in ways that feel joyful,” said Kenneth Bálint, Fresno State professor and dance program coordinator and adviser. “At the same time, the mental challenge of learning choreography sharpens memory, focus and creativity, while giving people a safe outlet to express themselves.”
This all being said, dance is more than just a pretty music box ballerina brought to life. Dance is beautiful, expressive and it’s real. The best part about it is that anyone can do it. From online resources to local dance classes offered in your community, there are so many opportunities.
Just move your feet to the beat.
