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Published: 06 April 2015

Harmonize Your Mind and Body Through Dance

by Steven Flores

Dance can do more for the human body than one might think. Yes, some only call dance a hobby, however, have you ever looked at the benefits of dance and how it can promote fitness and health in your life?

Dancing works the cardiovascular muscles which help the health of your heart. The intricacies of motion build lean muscle that articulate the ability to balance and mind/ body coordination during day to day tasks. Studies show that stretching on weekly (if not daily) bases decrees joint pain, muscle inflammation, and ligament issues up to 85% (danceformedicine.org). In fact, dancing can help in taking the pain away all together.

One of my students who is a victim of tendonitious in her hip flexor and is suffering from a pinch nerve in her lower back stated that her pain had significantly decreased within 4 weeks of taking dance class.

Dance has not only proven to be a great medicine and motivator for exercise but also enhances the mind. Studies show that people who dance have a better chance of sustaining memory and can multitask more easily. Unlike any exercise machine or class where it’s dealing with a repeated motion (like running) and not much power from the brain; dance, on the other hand, asks just as much of the brain as it does the body. Schools around the county have added dance to the physical education curriculum for that very reason. Dance builds the brain, self confidence and improves overall focus in students, "Getting a beat going in your body can get you out of a disorganized fog," says Karen Bradley, professor of dance at the University of Maryland. Rhythm, body, and motion take a single focus which not only improve your health but are valuable in your everyday life.

Ten Reasons To Participate

Dance keeps both the body and the brain active, vital for people of every age
Dance offers a way to improve strength and flexibility, which helps keep muscles and joints healthy
Choosing to start a new hobby can help you meet new people and make friends with people who have similar interests
Dance helps you learn about your body, improving your posture and balance
Taking time out in the day to partake in a hobby can help to reduce stress levels
Dance can offer insight into other cultures, either through the dance style itself or meeting new people
Dance can led to new career opportunities, or help build vital communications skills needed in every profession
Participating in dance can help increase your self esteem and confidence through mastering new skills
Dance offers a creative outlet for people to express their personalities in a safe environment
Dance is a fun way to open up new possibilities, keep healthy and enjoy yourself

What if I make mistakes when taking my first class?

One of the biggest concerns of a beginner dancer is that everyone is watching them and noting their mistakes.
Good news! People are usually not watching beginners. They are usually watching the more advanced dancers for tips to improve their own dancing. They understand making mistakes is part and parcel of learning to dance and are far more likely to congratulate you for your efforts. They've been where you are. So relax, have fun and dance for your self!

PopRock Academy service the San Gabriel Valley area. We are conveniently located in Alhambra, near San Marino and South Pasadena to the north, San Gabriel, Temple City and Arcadia to the east, Rosemead, Monterey Park to the South and downtown Los Angeles to the west.