Dancing: It's a Mood

Today is International Dance Day! Dancing is not only a universal activity and form of expression, but it is also one of the best types or cardio exercises. Personally, I love to dance. Becoming a Zumba instructor has allowed to share my love of dancing to high energy music with people of different nationalities and backgrounds. It is so rewarding to look at my class and see everyone enjoying a dance cardio class together. Even people who say they are not good dancers or that they "can't dance" find a way to move to the beat and smile.

That's not an accident. Dancing has been shown to elevate moods, improve mental health and lift spirits. It makes total sense because listening to music and regular exercise are both excellent mood boosters and you have both merged together for a super boost.

"There are so many studies done around dance and happiness and the science of dance as a healing modality, ”Radha Agrawal, Daybreaker CEO and co-founder, told the lifestyle outlet. “It’s the most healing modality that exists on the planet. When you dance, it releases your DOSE," says Agrawal, referring to an acronym for dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins, neurotransmitters and hormones in your brain that are commonly linked with happiness and well-being. -Southernliving.com

So if it's the exercise that makes your feel happy, what makes dancing different from other exercises such as running? Dancing offers a much larger release of endorphins and also leads to emotional release. If you do it in a group or with a partner it might also strengthen your bond and lead to a happier relationship. My husband and I love to dance together. We are lucky to have love for music and dancing with each other and when we dance I can't help but feel happy, smile and feel more in love. That may not be the case for everyone, but it can certainly help strengthen relationships.

Researchers in Hungary looked at what motivates people to dance. Their sample comprised of 447 salsa and/or ballroom dancers (68% female; mean age 32.8 years) who completed an online survey. They identified 8 motivational factors: Fitness, Mood Enhancement, Intimacy, Socializing, Trance, Mastery, Self-confidence, and Escapism. So what was the strongest motivational factor? For both males and females, it was mood enhancement. -Thedoctorweighins.com

Feel happy and its free? What a wonderful combination! With YouTube video and cardio dance classes increasingly being offered at gyms and recreation centers, you can find dance almost anywhere. Even if you don't want to do structured classes or choreography, you can simply turn on some rhythmic tunes and dance around your house.

Happy International Day of Dance! Now turn up the tunes and move!