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Have you ever wondered why people dancing to their favorite songs seem at peace? Maybe they’re jumping around and moving like maniacs, but you can see that wide smile plastered on their faces.
Sometimes, you can feel the chaotic energy of the dance reflecting the anger someone feels. Regardless of the execution, dancing works in mysterious ways and enhances someone’s state of mind.
That’s why dancing should be a part of every student’s life – be it any dance form. It’s been argued many times that moving around rhythmically or otherwise makes someone feel better.
Hence, while students are often stressing about the next assignment, they should also be aware of the need for a break. The perfect, short break can sometimes be dancing.
In this article, we discuss how diverse dances can work to improve a student’s mental health and increase their academic performance. From Tango to free dancing, find out what you can do to relieve some stress in your day and improve your mental health.
Tango Your Way & Study Well
It’s not often that we see a student’s academic life integrated into their extracurricular activities. However, we often neglect to see how a dance like the Tango can be used as a tool.
Studying is always much more comfortable if you find connections to your own life. For instance, the Tango’s composition can be explained using symmetry and geometry.
While it might be challenging to grasp, check argumentative essay topics about mental health fully understand how students’ well-being can be affected. Having free examples of essays allows you to understand the full gravity of how minute things impact your mental state.
Think about it in an alternative way. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and stressed, Tango is one way of putting a pin in it. Many refer to the dance as a “walking meditation,” as the exhilaration and the intensity allow you to relieve stress.
Moreover, you’re expected to fully concentrate on the steps and music during the class. Furthermore, you learn how to be in sync with your partner. Not only is that a perspective into your inner self, but it’s a method used to get rid of the overwhelming sensation.
Free Moving Dance and Healing Mental Health
Synonymous with conscious dance, free-moving dance allows students to express themselves in whatever way they desire. There are no limitations or choreography attached. While that might sound a little anxiety-inducing, the main benefit is that it puts no constraints on how you move.
In other words, this dance style is a spell for good grades. On days when you’re feeling depressed, anxious, or simply overwhelmed, most would resort to unhealthy habits. This could include smoking, drinking, drugs, or even wallowing in self-pity. Hence, the healthy alternative for anyone could be expressing your frustration, anxiety, or emotion through free dancing.
This particular dance style has been backed up in a research paper. It’s published as a potential clinical practice for those struggling. Of the 1,000 dancers participating, 98% admitted having improved moods post-dance.
This style’s critical guideline allows participants to express themselves in a safe and consent-approved environment. While you might associate such an experience with rave-like behavior, no substance is allowed to use in these group activities.
Some examples of the outcome of this survey include:
- 88% of participants with a history of addiction and 96% with anxiety or depression state that this dance style improved their coping mechanisms.
- Many participants say they “feel more present” and “have a greater sense of meaning and self.”
- People with mental issues seem drawn more towards such healing processes.
General Benefits of Dancing on Mental Health
The list of advantages one gets from dance is endless. However, here are a few especially beneficial to students.
Reduce Anxiety
Imagine a scenario: you’ve just sat for your exam, and now you’re waiting on your professor while he’s grading college papers. You might try to push that anxious feeling away by imagining it’s not there or drowning yourself in more work. However, such solutions are merely temporary. Working out generally elevates levels of dopamine and endorphins in your body, increasing pleasure and happiness.
Cognitive Abilities Boosted
You might scoff when you read this, but dance improves your muscle memory. While it might not be as common in free dancing, it’s definitely a contributor if you’re practicing a choreographed dance. Learning and memorizing through fun activities is a contract for grades.
Building Confidence
If you’re struggling with self-esteem issues, just like most college students at some point, then consider giving dancing a shot. Movement, especially in public settings, enables you to gain confidence and self-esteem. That often happens both through defining your own self and connecting with others. With more confidence, you’ll have more trust in yourself, writing essays and otherwise.
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Bottom Line: Types of Dance That Can Improve Mental Health
All in all, no matter the type of dance you resort to, it’s guaranteed to ease your mental health issues. While it might sound like a stretch, you might not feel better on the first try. Instead, staying consistent with it will go a long way.
If you’re anxious about trying out a class with numerous strangers, then choose to start small. Free-movement online dance classes can be done in the comfort of your own home. Simply put on your favorite song and start jamming to it. You can later on, once you’re comfortable enough, reach out to larger groups and dance away!
