2 minute read
Expert Contributor: Dancing Through your Decades
The Benefits of Dance at Any Age!
by Sheila Turner, Owner of From the Top Studio of Dance
It’s no secret that dancing is good for your body, but did you know that there are benefits that extend far beyond the physical element? From stress reduction to proper poise, brain health to social interaction, a life-long love of dance not only does your body, but your mind a whole lot of good!
Children who begin dance training at an early age are exposed to a multitude of benefits. In addition to learning rhythm and musicality, children will also improve muscle strength, coordination, balance, flexibility and posture. Young dancers also learn how to interact with their peers and often form lasting friendships.
As they move into the adolescent and teen years, dance often provides a “safe space” for them to explore how their emotions can be expressed through movement. They build confidence and self-esteem, learn the importance of posture and eye contact, and gain an overall appreciation of the arts. There is an emphasis on proper technique, appreciating and taking care of your body for optimal performance. And after a successful production, teens can learn how working together as a team in class results in amazing performances.
Dance is also a gift that extends far beyond the dance floor. It teaches us the importance of making eye contact, standing tall with smiles on our faces. Dance allows us to feel free to express emotions in front of others and to work hard to achieve a goal.
The wonderful thing about dance is that its benefits span all decades of our lives. As adults, we tend to forgo our interests to focus on our children, but that is often counter-intuitive. Extensive research has shown that dance enhances our brain function on a number of levels. Two recent studies noted in Psychology Today show how dancers achieve peak performance by blending cerebral and cognitive thought processes with muscle memory held in the cerebellum. Through regular aerobic training that incorporates some type of dance at least once a week, anyone can maximize his or her brain function.
Another study by, TAP - The Alzheimer’s Project says that frequent dancing apparently makes us smarter. A major study added to the growing evidence that stimulating one’s mind by dancing can ward off Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia, much as physical exercise can keep the body fit. Dancing also increases cognitive acuity at all ages.
So, no matter what your age or ability, it’s time you put on your boogie shoes and join the dance party!
Sheila Turner, owner of From the Top Studio of Dance, is a life-long resident of Newtown Square who teaches the fundamentals, techniques and performance of dance to youth and adults. To contact Sheila Turner, email: info@fromthetopdance.com.
From the Top Studio of Dance
Tap • Ballet • Lyrical • Broadway Jazz • Little Movers & Shakers • Jazz • Pointe • Hip Hop • Contemporary • Birthday Parties • Special Needs Inclusive
Dance classes for ages 2 through Adult
Now enrolling for Summer Camp & Summer Dance!
610-353-2623
3603 Chapel Rd, Newtown Square
www.FromTheTopDance.com
