As humans, we all love to dance. Whether it be breakdancing to participate in the Paris Olympic Games in 2024 or the little dance that we do when we see your waiter coming with our food. These random motions that when thrown together in a synchronized fashion, can actually provide some pretty unique health and wellness benefits for us all.  Ricardo Souza, New York City based Brazilian professional dancer, highlights unique health benefits that you didn’t know that dancing could offer.  “Dancing is one of the most freeing and raw forms of expression that we have, and because of that, is an excellent activity for cultivating well-being. People who dance achieve many benefits to their physical, mental, and emotional well-being which can directly improve physical health.” says Souza. 

Benefit #1: Dancing can help eliminate social anxiety 
As humans, we’re social creatures and crave connection to others. Dancing provides numerous opportunities to interact with other people who share the same passion as you. Being a part of a community that stimulates you has been linked to increased happiness, reduced stress, and a stronger immune system.

Benefit #2: Dancing can improve bone density
Growing up, we’re told to drink milk because it will make our bones stronger. While true, it’s only one part of the equation. Load bearing exercises such as dancing cause microscopic damage to the bone itself, this damage is then repaired by the body while at rest, resulting in stronger, healthier bones. The same happens with our muscles when dancing too, which is why vigorous dancing becomes easier over time. 

Benefit #3: Dancing can improve brain health
Have you ever been watching Dancing with the Stars and wondered how on earth they remember so many complicated twists and turns? Part of it is because dancing has been shown to boost memory and help deter dementia later on in life. The mental exercise of dancing encourages neuroplasticity and results in a healthier and happier brain.