Dance. We don’t always feel comfortable while doing it, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Most of the time, we find ourselves dancing for fun, not following any particular steps. That’s fine, of course. But you can dance for fun — and practice too. Some don’t view dancing just as a recreational activity, but as a sport or even a profession. This is particularly true in regards to ballroom dancing, which takes years to master and perfect. Ballroom dancing also comes with a variety of different styles and techniques. Learning a Latin ballroom dance, for example, doesn’t involve the same type of work or routine as learning an American ballroom dance. One thing you shouldn’t do is try to learn how to dance from a video. Whether you want to be competitive, pick up a hobby, or simply pick up a few steps for your wedding dance, you need to do it with the help of a professional ballroom dancing instructor. A professional instructor can teach you not only how to enjoy this type of dancing, but how to make the most of it. Doing that on your own is often easier said than done. Let’s look into what you can get out of ballroom dancing lessons.
A Brief History Of Dance
So, what was dance like before it became the classic ballroom dancing we recognize today? The history of dance may extend further back through history than you might think. The first archaeological evidence of dance was found on cave walls in India. They’re believed to be around 9,000 years old. Yes, dance is that old — or perhaps even older. And dance would develop and continue throughout the years. In fact, Ancient Egyptians were known to use dance as a part of their religious rituals — and also simply for entertainment. But dancing would develop rapidly into the forms that we recognized today. In the 17th century, Louis XIV of France created the Academie Royale de Musique et de Danse. As time passed, more rules and regulations would be added to certain dance styles, shaping and forming them. At the same time, dance remained a way for people to casually entertain themselves, as much it was a competitive pastime. Presently, ballroom dancing in particular is even recognized as an Olympic sport. But you don’t have to be competitive to head down to the dance studio. There are so many other benefits to dancing.
Dancing For Your Physical Health
It should go without saying that there are many different physical benefits to dancing. Regular dance lessons provide aerobic activity, and therefore aid in strengthening cardiovascular health. This can in turn help people lose weight when they combine lessons with a healthy diet. However, that’s not all. Dance lessons have also been known to allow people to improve their posture and balance. Regular dancing can even strengthen your muscles and bones — yes, your bones. But while the opportunity to exercise is important, there are also mental and emotional benefits to ballroom dancing. This can not only aid in boosting your mental health — but indirectly your physical health as well. Oftentimes, your mental and physical health are one and the same.
Dancing For Your Mental Health
Dancing for your mental health is incredibly important. For one thing, ballroom dancing instructions provide people with social opportunities. In a private lesson, you’re admittedly just interacting with your instructor. However, group lessons provide an excellent social opportunity. Regular participation has also been shown to reduce everyday stress and tension. With that being said, there are people who need more than just a reduction in stress and tension. Many people who experience depression find it difficult to leave the house or interact with a person — they need more than just stress reduction. Which is perhaps why ballroom dancing has been shown to reduce the symptoms of depression.
