You may have noticed that I love to dance. When a great Motown classic comes on, I've been known to "shake my groove thing" all around the house (or supermarket). My YouTube channel is littered with videos of me doing just that!

Do you love to dance? As we age, it's important to find enjoyable ways to stay active and healthy, and dancing can be a great way to do both! It's a low-impact exercise that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels, and it can help improve both your physical and mental health.

Here’s just a taste of what dancing can do for you:

• Improved cardiovascular health: Get your heart rate up and improve your cardiovascular health while lowering your blood pressure, cholesterol, and risk of heart disease.
• Increased muscle strength and flexibility: Moving your arms and legs while dancing activates nearly every muscle in your body. A dance like Chubby Checker’s “Twist” tones the entire midsection!
• Improved balance and coordination: Slow, fast, left, right…dancing really works your balance and coordination. This can be especially helpful in preventing falls as we get older.
• Reduced stress and anxiety: Dancing always makes me smile. How about you? It’s a great way to improve your mood and mental well-being. According to a study by Harvard Medical School: “Dance helps reduce stress, and increases levels of the feel-good hormone serotonin…”
• Increased social interaction: Dancing is a great way to socialize and meet new people. Whether it’s a Zumba class or ballroom dancing, joining others who love to dance keeps you from feeling isolated.
• Improved cognitive function: Dancing can help improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. From that same Harvard study: “(Dancing) helps develop new neural connections, especially in regions involved in executive function, long-term memory, and spatial recognition.”

Dancing is a great option for staying active as you age. You don't have to be a great dancer to enjoy all its benefits. Just get up and move your body to the music!

Speaking of music, the right song can make all the difference. Why not join me for a favorite of mine?

Dancing can be a great a great addition to your healthy aging activities. Another great way to stay healthy? Midlife Yoga! Join me for this beginner-friendly practice by registering here.

Until next time,

~ Rosemary