Dancing has long been celebrated with providing us joy, but very few of us consider it as a hobby, despite having a significant impact on our mental health. The rhythmic movements, creative expression as well as social interaction and physical exertion can be hugely positive on our mindset, reducing stress, alleviating anxiety and even aiding with the likes of addiction recovery.
It’s something that’s recommended by many professionals across alcohol rehab UK centres, so whether you’re struggling a little with anxiety, want to find a physical exercise routine, or need a hobby to aid with cravings and replace time you’d be drinking alcohol or taking drugs, why not have a dance?
The big question is, of course, what sort of dancing should you take up?
Ballroom Dancing
One of the most elegant forms of dancing, ballroom dancing is brilliant for mental health, with the close physical contact to your partner and synchronised movements promoting a real sense of connection and trust between partners, while also reducing any feelings of isolation and loneliness you may be struggling with, something that’s common amongst those in their older years and those in addiction recovery, looking to leave their old life behind.
The structured nature of ballroom dancing also provides a mental workout, with it needing good levels of memory and coordination, while learning new steps across all forms of dancing can be a real boost to cognitive functioning.
Salsa
Salsa is known for its high energy and lively rhythms, which can be a real boost to our mood, stimulating the release of endorphins and putting that smile back on our faces.
It is a very social dance that requires a partner or a group of people, and with so many classes up and down the country, it’s a great way to build new friendships.
It’s a fun and dynamic way to exercise that also requires plenty of concentration and coordination, even if over time you do feel like you’re getting lost in the rhythm and the moment.
Hip Hop
A more modern form of dancing, and something that is much more popular among younger generations is hip hop dancing. What it does that few other forms of dance can do is provide a real outlet for self-expression and creativity due to its more freestyle nature.
You can release your stresses through the way you tell a story in dance, which can not only help remove that stress, but also boost confidence and self-esteem.
Of course, the physical exertion involved with hip hop dancing is also good for our physical health and releasing endorphins, while if performed in a group, including partaking in dance battles, it can really help develop a sense of community and camaraderie.
Ballet
A much more precise form of dance than hip hop, ballet offers a brilliant combination of physical and mental benefits, with the discipline required in ballet training being particularly beneficial to our focus, perseverance and self discipline.
What’s more, something that’s especially good for those in recovery, the structured nature of classes provides a real sense of stability and routine, which can be good for reducing anxiety.
Interestingly, you may find ballet provides you with a sense of mindfulness that other forms of dance can’t as you need to be much more aware of your body movements, posture and alignment, which can essentially put you in an almost meditative state, similar to what yoga does.
Contemporary Dance
Contemporary dance blends elements of various dance styles, offering a flexible and expressive form of movement. It allows dancers to explore and convey a wide range of emotions, providing a therapeutic outlet for emotional release. This form of dance encourages improvisation and creativity, helping to stimulate the mind and enhance cognitive flexibility.
The physical activity involved in contemporary dance promotes the release of endorphins, reducing stress and improving mood. The emphasis on expression and creativity can also boost self-esteem and confidence. Additionally, contemporary dance often involves collaborative work, fostering social connections and a sense of community.
