International Dance Day: Decoding the science behind the art that lowers stress and anxiety
Dance is how the body responds to music, typically following a sequence of steps. But how else does dance help us? Is it just a form of entertainment? Or is it just another hobby? Well, dance is a lot more than all of that.
International Dance Day, celebrated on April 29, commemorates the birthday of Jean-Georges Noverre, a French dancer and master, often credited as the creator of modern ballet.
The day aims to embrace the worldwide nature of this art, transcend political, cultural, and ethnic divides, and unite people through a shared expression - dance.
Dancing our way through history
Archaeological traces date back to when humans communicated through cave paintings and sign languages, which makes us believe that our ancestors had good times back in the day, dancing.
Although we can't pinpoint exact dates, sites like Bhimbhetka in India and Egyptian tombs reveal paintings of dancing figures. However, during the Mughal and Nawabi periods in India, dance became known as 'nautch', which was viewed as a form of entertainment meant to please royalty.
The British colonial era further suppressed dance practices, but after gaining independence, India re-embraced the art of dance. From dancing in the courts for royalty to setting trending Insta reels, we’ve come a long way!
Dance activates the parasympathetic nervous system. This activation helps lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone associated with feelings of tension and anxiety.
When you dance, your brain releases endorphins, a chemical that uplifts one’s mood. Studies suggest that dancing can decrease the risk of developing Parkinson's disease and dementia. Movement not only promotes physical activity but also helps regulate emotions and cognitive function.
As noted by Harvard Medical School, “Dance has such beneficial effects on the brain that it is now being used to treat people with Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological movement disorder.”
A new concept in the field is Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT). A psychotherapeutic movement used to promote emotional, mental, cognitive, and physical integration. It has shown practical improvements in people dealing with depression, anxiety, etc.
Dance not only helps you stay physically fit, but it also serves as a platform for exploring your emotions and expressing them through movement. So, whether you’re dancing in your room late at night or vibing to trending songs and reels, your stage is wherever you choose. Start your day with music and movement, and watch it change your perspective of the world.
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