Music and dance go together like peas and carrots.
Dancing is as old as love. It requires the use of our entire body. Stepping, swaying bodies moving in rhythm. Music combined with dance makes it three dimensional and helps stir emotions in all of us. We become aware of our breath and how alive we can feel.
I love moving to the beat, whether it’s classical – the finale of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, “Ode to Joy” or rock – “The Rascals Greatest Hits” or Broadway tunes – from “West Side Story”. When I was about 10 years old, I saw the film and memorized every song and dance number. No doubt I wore out the album. I went as far as to put on a show for my neighbors, performing both the Tony and Maria parts.
Any form of dancing can help our mood and body. Here are some examples.
Music inspires us to get moving and helps us feel optimistic. People who study the brain know that listening to music can release dopamine, a chemical that increases feelings of happiness.
Dancing helps us learn to move our bodies in a new way; it requires all of our concentration and doesn’t leave room for much else.
Dancing also releases tension. Our bodies hold emotions in our shoulders and legs, and in our abdomens. Dancing helps you move through those feelings and past them.
Physical activity can help our heart (by increasing our aerobic capacity), prevent many chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, strokes and more. It can soothe our limbic system (the part of the brain that controls emotional and behavioral response) and our nervous system (the center of all mental activity including thought, learning and memory).
There are more ways to listen to music than ever before. Besides the radio or popping in a CD (yes, I still have mine and along with tapes and record albums), try a subscription service like SiriusXM radio, Pandora, etc. Dance like no one is watching unless you want an audience like I did. And have FUN!
If you want more joy, never quit demanding more of yourself. Find joy in dancing to the rhythm that excites you and, along the way, your heart will thank you. If you want to try other types of exercise, ask the professionals at Lori Michiel Fitness. We have specific programs to get you started if you’re not sure how. Improve your confidence along with improving your balance, breathing, flexibility and strength too. You can call 818-620-1442 or contact me. I will respond within 24 hours. You can also follow us on Facebook or LinkedIn for important research and fitness updates.