Stress has become ubiquitous, and if not managed well, it will affect our physical and mental well-being. However, recent studies published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine and Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine shed light on a simple yet effective way to combat stress: dancing.
Dancing isn’t just about enjoyment; it triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators, reducing stress levels. The rhythmic movement calms the nervous system and alleviates anxiety.
Furthermore, engaging in regular dance activities has been linked to lower levels of depression and anxiety. The Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine suggests that adolescents who engage in regular dance activities experience lower levels of depression and anxiety.
Physically, dancing provides a full-body workout, improving cardiovascular health, flexibility, and muscle strength. It aids in weight management and reduces the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.
Dancing isn’t just about enjoyment; it triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators, reducing stress levels.
Dancing also offers an elegant and graceful way to navigate stress. Whether it’s the gentle sway of a waltz or the fiery energy of a tango, it empowers individuals to move through stress with poise and grace.
Perhaps The Psalmists knew something about dancing when they wrote:
“You have turned my mourning into dancing.” — Psalm 30:11
“Let them praise His name with dancing.” — Psalms 149:3
As for those like me who dance with two left feet, we can always run or jog to the rhythm of the music on our AirPods. That’s our dance!
So, next time when stress creeps in, put on your dancing or running shoes and let the music guide you as you dance or jog your stress away.
“Dancing liberated me and even made me feel as if my body had a reason to be.” ― Maya Angelou
“Life is a dance. All you need to do is find your rhythm.” ― Sandra Cooze.
Fred Toké aka Dr.Tokèmon
#drtokèmon
