Since time began, people have danced. Dance is part of a celebration. In some cultures dance is a spiritual tool. In classical circuits, dance is used to reach the viewer in an emotional way that touches them deeply. No matter what kind of dance you do, dance is good for you. Below, we will point out just a few of the many ways dance can affect your health.

If you have never danced before, don’t worry. It does not take a lot of money to get started. You can find dancing clothes, shoes, and more at Just For Kix and you can order online. Even if you have not found your class yet, you can invest in the basics so you will be ready.

1. Improves brain functions

Dancing is more mentally challenging that other exercises. When a person is dancing, they must concentrate on the music and remember the steps, while holding a partner and syncing the movement. This is a great mental exercise. Studies show that dancing reduces the risk of dementia in seniors. Dancing forces the dancer to concentrate and to focus on the next step. This mental workout keeps your memory strong and it has been shown to reduce the risk of dementia.

2. Dance makes you happier and fights depression

When you are depressed, you tend to be much less active. Often you feel isolated and alone in the world. At the first sign of depression, grab your shoes and head to the dance studio.
 
You may dance in a group, in an exercise class, or with a partner. In any event, you will lose that feeling of isolation. As you allow the music to sway you and your body moves, you will release all the stress and tension that you are carrying.
 
Dancing causes your brain to release Oxytocin, Endorphins, Serotonin, and dopamine. These four chemicals are directly responsible for your physical happiness. Dancing is a very strong tool that will help you battle depression and win.  

Dance 22

 Photo credit: Djalma Paiva Armelin

3. Weight loss and muscle growth

Dancing burns a lot of calories. You use virtually every muscle in your body when you dance. Your muscles become more toned and they begin to tap into your fat supply for fuel. Dancing actually burns more calories than swimming, walking, and biking (in normal situations.)
 
The average person who weighs 125-pounds will burn about 330 calories per hour. If you weigh 155-pounds will burn about 420 calories per hour. Your body must burn 3,500 calories over what you are consuming to lose 1-pound. Therefore, if you dance 1-hour per day, you should lose 1-2 pounds of fat every ten days.

Dance 33 Photo credit: Tim Gouw

4. Bone health

No matter how old you are, strong bones are an important part of your health. But, this is even more important for us as we age. Dancing builds bones stronger bones and reduced risk of osteoporosis.
 
Your bones are a living part of your body. When the bones experience a heavy load, they experience damage. That is when the brain sends special cells called osteoblasts to repair and build the bones. Dancing makes you mentally and physically strong and healthy.

Dance 44Photo credit: Pixabay

5. Heart and lungs

Dancing gives your heart and lungs a good workout. Dancing makes your heart beat faster which improves circulation. Your lungs must work harder to keep up with the demand. The oxygen your blood needs is increased. Adding dancing to your fitness routine will give you the stamina to tackle other activities.

6. It is kinder to your body than repetitive exercise

When you dance, you work through a series of movements. This allows you to work your whole body and to not overwork any part of the body. For example, when you exercise on a stationary bike you work the lower body, repeating the same movements  and using the same muscles. This is healthy work, but it is tough on the legs after a while. The same is true for other exercises. Dancing eliminates that problem.
 
As you can see, there is a reason why dancing has stood the test of time. It is one of the best forms of exercise there is. Dancing improves your body, mind, and soul. So, if you want to feel better and look better – dance!

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