To dance is to be out of yourself. Larger, more beautiful, more powerful… This is power, it is glory on earth and it is yours for the taking. – Agnes de Mille 

You’re probably wondering, “Why dance? I have two left, I’m too white, I’m too old, I’m too this or that.” Then the myriad of excuses start stampeding in like bulls. The mind can play many games when it comes to avoiding something new and trying something outside of your comfort zone. Putting aside the idea that you may feel silly at first  learning to dance, social dances, including the Country Two Step, or Swing dancing, actually has many benefits physically, mentally and spiritually.  Let’s take a closer look as to why you should start dancing now rather than putting it off in the new year.

Your Physical Health and Fitness. Did you know that dances like Salsa and Swing are a total body cardiovascular workout than strengthens muscles and bones?  Dancing actually increases blood circulation, and lowers blood pressure, while at the same time reducing the risk of coronary heart disease! How great is that?! Looking toned and fit while having fun exploring a new hobby doesn’t hurt either!

Your Mind. Endorphins are unleashed when the body exerts itself at a certain level. You might have heard of a “runner’s high”. Because dancing is a similar activity, this same emotional boost can happen as you learn to Tango or even Two Step.. Of course, all exercise releases endorphins, but dancing has an increased effect in this realm because it’s not only the physical activity, but also the music, that affect the mind. In a dancer’s context, a “dancer’s high” is felt when you really kick your body into high gear after a few minutes of continuous motion.
Dancing also affects the mind by contributing to a sense of satisfaction. While you may not reach new goals immediately, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you worked hard towards those goals. Sweating through a series of rhythms and combinations can be very satisfying even if change comes about at a slow pace. In the long term, you will see the fruits of your efforts not only from year to year, but on a day-to-day basis, as you grow in your dancing abilities.

In addition, studies have also shown that activities that involve both physical and mental activity at the same time help to slow the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and reduce the chance of developing dementia by 70%. Now that is good for everyone!