With ballet, tap, modern, and even twerking, dance can be found everywhere. It is a major part of history and culture, influencing individuals across generations. But what makes dance truly incredible is that it’s not only an outlet for creative expression, but it also allows people to have a healthy body and mind.
Tracy Lawson, former tap instructor at BalletMet Dance Academy and choreographer for the Bexley City Schools theatre department, explained how she personally has seen the many health benefits of dance: “The physical activity gives you an endorphin rush, helps relieve stress, burns calories, and makes you happy.”
The “endorphin rush” that Lawson described occurs when an individual exercises. These neurotransmitters are released into the body and act as analgesics, which help reduce the sensation of pain overall. Therefore, when someone is dancing, the endorphins allow the individual to feel happy, painless, and stress-free as a whole.
Lawson also explained that “the social benefits of working as a team” promote happiness and well-being in the mind. When people are working together towards a common goal, they are able to bond with one another and create strong, long-lasting relationships.
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Monica Miller, a student studying dance at the University of Michigan, agreed with Lawson’s statements about how dance promotes camaraderie: “[Dance] bonds you to people because you recognize how hard it is, but you also understand the artistry.”
Luckily, thanks to the great resources at the University of Michigan, students across campus are able to participate in clubs, courses, and fitness classes focused on dance. So, whether you’re in the mood for a Zumba class at the CCRB, the Ballroom Dance club, or interested in taking a class on Congolese dance, then the University of Michigan is the place to be!
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