The Many Mental Benefits of Adult Social Dance

In addition to the many physical benefits of adult social dancing, there are numerous mental and social benefits.

Dancing keeps us young. The myriad physical benefits help to slow the aging process.

Dancing improves our memory. Remembering and recalling steps, patterns, and routines provide a great mental workout for our brains and keep our minds alert, quick, and young. In fact, a 2003 study by the New England Journal of Medicine suggests that social dancing reduces dementia in older adults by increasing neuronal synapse complexity, essentially re-wiring their brains.

Dancing makes us smarter. In addition to memory improvements, dancing has been repeatedly shown to improve cognitive acuity more than reading, doing crossword puzzles, playing golf, swimming, and bicycling.

Dancing is socially satisfying. The proximity to others provides a pleasant recreational and entertaining hobby while also cultivating close friendships with other like-minded adults.

Dancing transcends all cultures. Every culture across the globe with different customs, ideas, norms, values, and beliefs has dance as a central aspect. By interacting with different people on the dance floor, we expand our minds and spirits.

Dancing improves mood. Exercise raises endorphins—the "feel good" natural hormones—which help alleviate stress, reduce depression, and increase satisfaction.

Dancing reduces loneliness. The simple act of dancing with a partner is, by definition, the opposite of being lonely.

Dancing promotes good hygiene. Being around others—and in rather close proximity as well—makes us want to look (and smell) our best.

For more information, or to learn about all of the wonderful dance lessons we offer, please contact us.