In the words of Ariana Grande, just keep breathin’. Life is an exhausting rollercoaster of ups and downs, and we admit it: Finding ways to cope can be a challenge. While we always advocate doing what’s best for your mental health — from medication to talk therapy or whatever floats your mental health boat — we’re here to say that dance can be majorly therapeutic. We all know that moving your body can be a major mood booster (endorphins, anyone?), but dance allows you to level up even more. After all, dancing isn’t just about moving to a beat; it’s an amazing outlet that can uplift and heal the spirit much like therapy does — but with its own unique set of perks (just sayin’). Prepare to be enlightened.
1. Dancing allows for self-expression (without words).
Sometimes, words fall short when it comes to conveying our deepest feelings. The art of dance can be a universal means of expression, transcending language barriers and allowing emotions to flow freely. When the music hits, you’re invited to tell your story with your body, liberating any feelings that have been desperately searching for an outlet.
2. The playlist is an instant mood booster.
Music and moods are like Beyoncé and Jay-Z — one inspires the other. The curated playlists during a DivaDance warm-up or slay session are designed to lift spirits and energize souls. Each beat and rhythm is a pulse that infuses life and vibrancy back into our day-to-day existence, much like an auditory high-five that keeps us coming back for more.
3. It’s pretty darn affordable.
While an hour-long therapy session can often run about $150 (or more), dancing is free! Tell Alexa to play your favorite track, and break it down Britney-style in the comfort of your own living room. Seeking something more official? Dance classes won’t break the bank, including our DivaDance class packs and membership options!
4. A community of kindred spirits awaits.
Walking into a dance class, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a wide variety of individuals, each with their own unique backgrounds and stories… yet all united by the beat. This isn’t just a workout group; it’s a community of encouraging gals and guys who cheer each other on as they move and grow together. The connections made here often extend beyond the studio, creating a network of support and friendship.
5. It’s the ultimate stress release.
When the chaos of life tries to take the lead, dancing whirls in to change the tempo. Much like a good therapy session, the physical movement of a dance class can be a major stress reliever, allowing the tension to evaporate with each step (or twerk). It’s like pressing the refresh button on your day, providing an exhilarating way to let go of the pressures that weigh you down. Not to mention the mindfulness factor — focusing on choreo can be akin to meditation, helping you remain present and in the moment.
6. Dance makes you glow from the inside out.
Dancing has a fabulous way of making you feel radiant and alive, no matter your shape or size. It’s not about changing the way you look (in the words of Christina Aguilera, “You are beautiful.”) — it’s about celebrating what your body can do. The confidence and joy that come from dancing radiates through, creating a glow that’s all about feeling good in the skin you’re in!
7. It’s a mental workout like no other.
Dance is just as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Learning a range of choreography and keeping in sync with the rhythm requires major memory and focus. It’s a brain workout that boosts muscle memory, making you sharper both on (and off!) the dance floor.
8. Plain and simple: Dance is so fun!
No amount of reasoning can overshadow this simple fact: Dancing is downright fun! The sheer joy of moving to your favorite tunes is a form of self-care that feels more like a celebration than a chore. It creates a safe space where the only expectation is to let your hair down and enjoy yourself during a sexy, sweaty, stress-free dance experience like no other.
So, the next time you’re feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders, remember to let the beat rock (Black Eyed Peas reference) and feel free to twist, jump, and glide your way to a brighter state of being. Your mental health will thank you!
