Dancing About Science - Chapter 6 - Why Does Our Mood Boost With Dancing?

Whether or not you have a stressful job or constant ups and downs with caregiving of kids, parents, etc, etc, you're likely privy to mood shifts. We have moments of happiness and sadness, fulfillment and irritation. Moods are a part of natural life.

The Biology of Moods

Different processes are always occurring inside your body's cells. Hormones are being transmitted, food is being digested, muscles are being activated. Specific neurotransmitters regulate our moods - and these can be impacted by everyday situations, including your sleep. For example, if your boss gives you a hard time, the levels of serotonin produced by your body that day will be diminished. Serotonin production by nerve cells in the gut and brain binds to other cells to dictate your mood.

Dancing Is A Natural Anti-Depressant

Moving your body not only stimulates blood flow and better circulation, but if you're dancing, the benefits truly create the perfect internal anti-depressant. Dancing increases levels of those mood-enhancing neurotransmitters, serotonin and dopamine. And this is no surprise; think of the environment in which you're typically dancing - you're listening to music, wiggling your hips, and hopefully focused on enjoying yourself instead of paying your taxes. Additionally, dancing in a group setting can enhance social connection, combating any feelings of isolation. Dancing has been also scientifically linked to mood healing and mental health.

Endorphins As The Accelerator of Moods

Exercise naturally increases endorphins, which are also hormones that regulate pain and stress. Since dancing is an amazing form of exercise, endorphins are a byproduct of any boogie-down session! Endorphins released by the brain have the power to accelerate the production of other mood-boosting neurotransmitters - basically, if you're feeling that natural 'high' feeling after class, you are swimming in endorphins PLUS serotonin and dopamine.

Try A Dance Class

Dancing truly has the power to affect your mood - and the lasting effects of repeat dance classes can help get you through tough times. A regular dance schedule will maintain the benefits of mood-boosting hormones long after the class ends. Stop by BaM today to get your mood boost!