Have you ever felt like the world is on your shoulders? Felt stressed, worried or overwhelmed? Maybe school is tough, or things at home are a little hectic.

When stress starts to bubble up, it can feel like there’s nowhere to turn. We all experience these feelings sometimes.

I know I definitely have as a college student. As a college student who also works part time and participates on a sports team, life can get very stressful at times. However, it’s important to find healthy ways to cope with these feelings. 

woman who is stressed out during work
Stressors, like work, can be very overwhelming.

Did you know that you can use dancing to relieve stress? Have you ever tried using dancing to relieve stress? Dancing is an underrated tool that many people don’t think about.

Dancing can help you feel better, both physically and mentally. For me, dancing has always helped melt my stress away.

This article will explore the science behind how dancing can help you overcome stress while we also delve into the history of dance, different health benefits, and class options to get you started on your stress-busting dance journey!

The History of Dance

Dancing has been around for centuries, as far back as the beginning of human history! People have always used dance to express themselves, tell stories, celebrate special occasions, and connect with others.

In fact, many cultures have traditional dances that are passed down from generation to generation.

Dance has evolved into so much more than what people may have previously thought. The evolution of dance shows us that dance is a universal language that can bring people together and help us feel good, no matter our background or experience.  

In the article, “History of Dance: Universal Elements and Types of Dance” by MasterClass, there is a section about the history of dance. They talk about how certain types of dance come from certain areas of the world. For example, the style The Waltz, has come from European areas of the world. 

young couple dancing to relieve stress by doing the waltz
The Waltz is an old style of dance that can be stress relieving.

The Science Behind Dancing to Relieve Stress

Have you ever wondered what happens inside your body when you dance? It turns out, there’s a whole party going on! When you move your body to the rhythm of the music and use dancing to relieve stress, your brain releases special chemicals called endorphins.

These endorphins are like tiny messengers that travel to your brain to create feelings of happiness and relaxation. These “feel-good” chemicals have a number of benefits, including:

  • Reducing stress hormones like cortisol
  • Improving your mood and outlook
  • Easing pain and discomfort
  • Boosting feelings of happiness and well-being

Along with endorphins, scientists have found that the power of using dancing to relieve stress has many other benefits including mental health. Some amazing benefits include:

  • Sharpen your brain
  • Increase your energy 
  • Reduce stress and anxiety 

As proven in the article posted by Harvard Medical School, “Dancing and the Brain” by Scott Edwards, dancing to relieve stress has some amazing mental health and physical benefits, especially the brain. As stated in the article, dance can be used as therapy for patients, specifically for patients with Parkinson’s disease.

Daniel Tarsy, a HMS professor of neurology and director of Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Center at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), states that dance can help with motor skills that are affected by the disease such as, stiffness, impaired balance and coordination and tremors. The article states, “Tarsy says that dance can be considered a form of rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS).”

Not only can you use dancing to relieve stress, but you can also use dancing to help improve your physical health and overall well-being, in return reducing stress and anxiety. Dancing is a form of exercise, which gets your heart pumping and your blood flowing. This can help to lower your stress hormones, like cortisol, and make you feel more energized. 

Plus, focusing on the rhythm and movement of dance can take your mind off your worries for a while. It’s like giving your brain a mini-vacation! From personal experience, I can definitively say that dancing to relieve stress is an amazing method. Being on a dance team in college gives me a break from the stress of school and allows me to have an outlet to escape reality for a few hours! 

Dance Classes to Help Relieve Stress

You may be thinking, “I’m new to dance, I don’t know where to start!” That’s the beauty of dance, there is no right or wrong. There are countless styles of dance, from ballet and hip hop to salsa and Zumba, and there’s a perfect style for everyone, catering to all ages and experience levels. Here are a few popular options to consider:

  • Zumba: This high-energy dance fitness class combines Latin music and dance moves for a fun and effective workout.
  • Hip hop: This energetic and expressive style is a great way to use dancing to relieve stress while having fun.
  • Ballet: While ballet requires more technique, it can be surprisingly calming and meditative.
  • Social ballroom dancing: This type of dancing is a great way to meet new people and learn new skills, all while enjoying the benefits of dance.

So, if you’re new to dancing, consider taking a class! These classes can be your new outlet and favorite way to use dancing to relieve stress! I am so glad that I had friends and family that pushed me into dancing so many years ago!

Although I personally have never taken a Zumba class before, many of my friends have and they always rave about how fun and liberating it is! They always make me want to take one! 

adults dancing to relieve stress by taking a Zumba class
Zumba class is a fun way to relieve stress!

Many community centers, gyms, and even dance studios offer classes specifically designed for beginners. In a class, you’ll learn basic steps, meet new people, and have so much fun while you’re at it. 

No matter what style of dance you choose, the most important thing is to find something you enjoy and feel comfortable with. As long as you are having fun, that’s all that matters! 

I have been taking dance classes since I was 3 years old and I can definitively say that growing up dancing has shaped me into the person I am today while also improving my mental health. During my childhood, dancing has always been a way for me to express my emotions and I have used dancing to relive stress of everyday life and family drama many times.

I am a big advocate for stepping out of your comfort zone and taking dance classes. Let go of all your worries during the class and feel your stress melt away! 

Ready to start dancing to relieve stress?

There are many resources available online and in your community to help you get started. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and give it a try! You might just discover a new passion that helps you feel happier and healthier than ever before.