Whenever experts recommend different types of physical exercise for physical and mental health, they talk to us about different activities such as walking, cycling, swimming, running, strength training… but this time recognized Neuroscientist Nazareth Castellanos He was more specific and recommended us what he thought was the best Or, at least, what you think would benefit brain health the most.
The exercise this neuroscientist is talking about is dancing. And why so good? According to this neuroscientist, “It has been shown Dance strengthens the somatosensory cortexl, the area of the brain responsible for what is happening outside our body. Sensation, posture, movement, temperature etc. If we strengthen this field, more neurons are included and their connections are strengthened, which is a big advantage to face the loss of neurons that occurs with age,” says Castellanos.
This statement is shared Gisela Schwartz, dancer, dance teacher and movement creator Dance and connectionAn initiative that seeks to demonstrate the important benefits of dance for people regardless of age or physical condition. Thus, the dancer has been teaching sessions of about one and a half hours since 2023 whate Rhythm, expression, energy, coordination, work together Mindfulness. We spoke to her to explain to us in detail why dancing is so beneficial and whether this exercise is suitable for women over 50 and, in particular, which type of dancing is best. We start with a simple question: What are the main benefits of dance on a cerebral and emotional level?
© Adobe StockBenefits of dancing
For Gisela Schwarz, there is no doubt: The greatest benefit of dancing is joy. “In the world we live in today, it’s important to be able to do an activity that brings you joy,” he says. But the dancing doesn’t stop there. Dance activates the body, mind and heart.
when we dance, Improves our coordination, flexibility and strength, without even realizing it. “Because when you dance you work different parts of your body, many of them don’t even realize it.” Added to all this is the power of music, which can evoke memories, emotions and a unique connection to the present moment.
And the best? You don’t need to be a professional dancer. Just move to the beat of the music to feel the physical and mental benefits. Speaking of emotions, how does dance help us manage them?
Spontaneous Movement: One of the keys to dance
Have you ever tried to move freely without worrying about doing it right or wrong? According to the dancer, spontaneous movement is a very good tool Connect with our passion. “Sometimes words are not enough to describe what we feel and spontaneous movement allows the body to express itself.”
Such movements are not only Relieves our tensionBut connects us to our truth. Gisela puts it simply: “When there’s no judgment, when it doesn’t matter whether you’re an expert or not, that’s when true expression happens.” In this way, dance becomes a safe space to express emotions, release burdens and reconnect with our essence.
When participants manage to follow the rhythm of the music, they develop a sense of personal growth and confidence that is not easy to achieve.
Group Dance: A Unique Connection Experience
You know you can dance in groups Align our hearts? This is not just poetry, but something that science also supports. Gisela explains it from her experience: “When you have to synchronize with others, your heart automatically synchronizes. A collective experience is created that creates a A sense of belonging to a team“
in your program Dance and connectionSessions are not just about transitioning, but about building emotional bonds with others. “Our goal is to create a climate where it doesn’t matter how you arrive or what personal backpack you bring. the time hour and a half “For the duration of the meeting, most of the participants enjoy it completely.”
Additionally, overcoming challenges such as following a rhythm or coordinating movements with other people creates great personal satisfaction. Gisela describes it this way: “When participants manage to follow the rhythm of the music, they produce a A passion for personal growth and self-confidence Which in itself is not easy to achieve.”
© Adobe StockPhysical Benefits of Dancing: Beyond Exercise
What makes dancing ideal for the over 50s? Unlike other forms of exercise, dance not only strengthens the body, it is also a Exercise for the soul. “Dance improves everything: coordination, flexibility, balance and cardiovascular health,” says Gisela.
Also, dancing is a fun way Be active and socializeSomething basic at this stage of life. “When you reach a certain age, after dedicating your life to family or work, you need to practice an activity that makes you happy. In my case it’s the dance, and I get that from the women who come too Dance and connection“
Dance is much more than moving; Experiencing, expressing and living the present fully
Who can dance? We all can!
If you’ve ever thought that dancing isn’t for you, Gisela has a clear message: “We can all dance. Regardless of age or body type, “No one wants to enjoy music.”
You don’t need a stage or complicated choreography. According to the dancer, You can start at homeFollow the beat with your feet while you’re preparing dinner in the kitchen or listening to music in the car. “Sometimes we have to leave our comfort zone to experience the unimaginable benefits that dance brings.”
Gisela knows what she’s talking about. himself He started dancing again after 50 yearsAnd he confirmed that it was one of the best decisions of his life. “I feel like the luckiest woman in the world for encouraging me to take this step.”
© Adobe StockDance After 50: An Invitation to Happiness
Dance is not just a physical exercise, it is an emotional journey that changes lives. Gisela Schwartz describes it passionately: “Dance is much more than moving; Experiencing, expressing and living the present fully“
So, if you’re over 50 and looking for an activity that will restore your energy, connection and joy, don’t hesitate. Go beyond the dance, let the music guide you and discover all that dance can do for you. Your body and mind will thank you.
