By: Alex Murphy

As I strolled through Body Worlds: The Anatomy of Happiness exhibit in the Science Museum of Virginia on a late morning in September, I noticed a sign that sparked pride and joy. It read:
“Dancing makes you happy & smart! Dance is especially known for its positive effects on our cardiovascular system. Recent studies also suggest that dancing may increase serotonin levels in our bodies – hormones that reduce our stress levels and give us a sense of well being and happiness. By using our brains in coordination with our bodies, dancing also helps to keep the brain functional by rewiring itself and keeping the brain pathways active. This makes the brain less susceptible to memory loss. See you on the dance floor!”

Dance. It’s a word with many layers, contexts, and meanings depending on the person you ask. Some are terrified of dance and claim they have two left feet. Some enjoy it in social settings. Some create their own form of dance based on their physical capabilities. Some learn dance to celebrate their heritage and culture. Some devote their whole lives, training intensely to become a professional within their dance field. And there’s every other scenario on that spectrum imaginable. At the end of the day, dance is an integral part of the human experience. It is a way for our body to be our voice. I have always felt that it is the only universal language. You can connect with a total stranger with dance. You can also use it to solidify bonds with someone you already consider your closest confidant. Dance is the gift that keeps on giving. As a lifelong dancer and physical therapist, seeing my two passions intertwine makes my heart flutter. After doing a deep dive into the increasing research on dance’s effect on people’s physical and mental well being, the science is simple. Dance is good for you.

A systematic review published in Sport Medicine in January 2024, dives into the effectiveness of dance on physiological and cognitive health outcomes compared to other forms of physical activity. It included analysis of 27 studies and determined dance was equally as effective as other physical activities in improving quality of life for those with Parkinson’s, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. The article also reported preliminary evidence that dance is superior to traditional physical activity to improve motivation, aspects of memory, and social cognition along with reducing distress. Another recent systematic review, published in April 2024, discusses the effects of dance on physical function and quality of life among middle aged and older adults. With 16 studies meeting the inclusion criteria, most studies indicated dance improving physical function, balance, postural control, and quality of life. Along with that, dance intervention showed a higher level of adherence compared to other physical activity interventions.

As a new year begins, many of us are looking to better ourselves with newly established goals or resolutions for 2025. For some, this is a challenging time to feel motivated as a result of seasonal affective disorders (SAD). For those experiencing SAD or other mental/physical disorders, dance might be an excellent tool in your tool box as you manage your mental and physical health in light of the research discussed above. Dance can be the gift you give yourself this holiday and new year season to start your 2025 off with endorphins, community, and self care.

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