Dance has been part of rituals, celebrations, and ceremonies since the beginning of time. Dancing is a primal form of expression that allows us to flow and move and express what lies deep within, so why is it that as we age, we stop doing the things that bring us joy like dancing?
Dancing is a great way to improve physical health, mental wellbeing, and social interaction. It is a form of exercise that improves cardiovascular health and helps burn calories to lose that unwelcome menopause belly.
One of the primary benefits of dancing is that it helps to increase the production of endorphins, which are natural mood-boosting chemicals in the brain. This can be particularly beneficial for women dealing with menopause, as they often experience mood swings, anxiety, and depression. Dancing releases endorphins that help to improve mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and provide a sense of overall wellbeing. Just think back to your younger years of attending concerts and parties and how good it made you feel. Have we grown more self-conscious of our bodies and dancing abilities as the decades rock and rolled on by?
Dancing is also a great way to improve bone density, which is particularly important during menopause. Loss of bone density can increase the risk of osteoporosis and fracture, and because dancing is a weight-bearing activity that helps stimulate bone growth, making it an effective way to prevent bone loss and maintain healthy bones.
The cardiovascular health benefits for women going through menopause shouldn’t be overlooked. Women experience a decline in estrogen levels which can increase the risk of heart disease. Dancing is a great way to improve heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease by strengthening the heart muscle and improving circulation.
One of the most beneficial effects of dancing is it’s a great way to maintain a healthy weight, which can be challenging for women going through menopause due to hormonal changes that can lead to frustrating weight gain. Dancing is a fun and enjoyable way to burn calories, maintain a health weight and reduce the risk of obesity-related health problems such as diabetes and heart disease.
Best of all, we need to include the numerous mental health benefits that dancing has. Apart from putting a big smile on your face, dancing improves cognitive function and memory, which is especially good for menopausal women experiencing brain fog and forgetfulness. Dancing is a complex, whole of body activity that requires concentration and coordination, using all our motor skills while moving to the beat.
Dancing is also a social activity, and it provides an opportunity for women to connect with others and build new friendships. Social interaction is essential for mental wellbeing and building social support networks.
Most communities have some form of social dancing classes that are low cost and for people of all ages and abilities. It’s probably the most fun you will have with your clothes on and have a giggle while you wiggle.
If you’re not ready to give up the disco diva in you quite yet, pull on your leotards and lycra and get up and dance!
Written by Mona Hecke
Mona Hecke is a degree qualified Naturopath, nutrition specialist and health and wellness writer.
With over 20 years in the health industry, beginning with a focus on children and families, and a bestselling book ‘The Lunchbox Revolution’, Mona is now empowering women through education and conversation to take action and embrace change. Gut health, mindfulness, nutrition, hormones, and menopause are the topics that women want and need to know to create their healthy future.
Mona holds certifications in Lifestyle Coaching, Kinesiology, holistic herbal medicine, and nutrition.
A recognised leader in the health industry, Mona’s strong social media presence and passion for influencing change will continue to be a catalyst for health reform for the benefit of every Australian.
