The ONE way dancing can improve your sleep, expert reveals

Did you know that dancing lowers the risk of developing dementia and other mental illnesses

by as much as 76%*?

The world’s leading dancewear retailer, BLOCH, teamed up with health experts to share the ways dancing can positively affect mental health, with dancing being such a fun and widely accessible activity.

1. Endorphins from dance improve sleep 

Physical activity has well-documented mental health benefits, and dance is a great way to get moving. As a result of the endorphins released when dancing, your heart rate increases. After the practice you feel tired and relaxed, which ultimately improves your sleep quality as well.  So tonight, why not try dancing in your bedroom to get a better night’s sleep! 

2. It can combat lonliness

Joining dance classes, (or simply dancing with your friends at a party!), can promote a sense of friendship and togetherness. Dr. Harold Hong, a board-certified psychiatrist at New Waters Recovery says: “Even if just for a few hours, social dances like jazz help reduce isolation and loneliness, two major risk factors for mental illnesses”. 

3. Dancing is a great way to be mindful

Christine Nowicki, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and former ballet dancer told BLOCH “Dance is an immersive training in body awareness. Dancers know exactly how to check in and notice what their posture is like, where they are holding tension, where they are collapsed…the list goes on. This is a huge asset when it comes to learning mindfulness.” The awareness of thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations is often practiced within meditation tactics. 

4. It’s mood-boosting

Studies over the years have proved that dancing not only helps with self-esteem but also significantly improves your mood. Raven Gibbs, psychotherapist and professional dancer comments: “When you dance, the brain also begins to release dopamine and endorphins. The release of dopamine is a natural mood boost while the release of endorphins helps to relieve feelings of pain and distress, which helps you to relax”

5. Dancing allows you to focus

Many dancers would say that dancing makes them escape reality. Colleen Wenner, Clinical Director explains: “As you practice and master different steps and routines, your memory, focus, and attention improve. Dance is ultimately about the joy of movement and you may find your life becomes more fulfilling when you’re able to only focus on the present moment.”

6.     Dancing is an outlet for self-expression 

Finally, dancing provides an outlet for self-expression! When people suffer from mental health problems, they often have a wide range of emotions they don’t know how to articulate or let out. Having a non-verbal language to channel your emotions and experiences into can be extremely liberating. There are some things words can’t express quite so well, but dance can often help with that.