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Very little negative comes from amplifying and enhancing our energy within our immediate surroundings. Taking action and moving the body not only invigorates our energetic field (and aura) but also offers a host of mental and cognitive benefits. Thus making us both happier and healthier.

According to a 21-year study of senior citizens, 75 and older, led by the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City, funded by the National Institute on Aging and published in the New England Journal of Medicine, remarkable results show dancing can benefit us all, especially as we age. Their method for objectively measuring mental acuity in aging was to monitor rates of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.(1)

Conclusion of the study suggests the reduced risk of dementia based upon various activities;

0% – Bicycling, swimming, or playing golf

Bicycling, swimming, or playing golf 35% – Reading

Reading 47% – Doing crossword puzzles at least four days a week

Doing crossword puzzles at least four days a week 76% – Dancing frequently (especially choreographed)

Dr. Joseph Coyle, a Harvard Medical School psychiatrist wrote an accompanying commentary;

“The cerebral cortex and hippocampus, which are critical to these activities, are remarkably plastic, and they rewire themselves based upon their use.”

Thus by utilizing neuroplasticity, which is the capacity of the nervous system to develop new neural connections via repeated use, is what helps us build better habits and improve health. This is how we learn new things and remember them, strengthening the brain muscle and increasing intelligence.

Aside from improving upon health and intelligence, however, dancing also…

– Reduces stress and depression

– Increases energy and serotonin

– Improves flexibility, strength, balance, and endurance

– Strengthens bones and boosts cardiovascular health

– Increases mental capacity by exercising our cognitive processes

– Dynamic and rapid-fire decision making creates new neural pathways

Let’s celebrate life through dance – dance at the club, in the streets, in your bedroom, in your seat, and everywhere you can. Dance as often as possible! Especially when dancing to your favorite music to liberate and uplift the soul. Invite friends and family to dance with you, make it a party. Or dance by yourself as though no one is watching. Let go of what keeps you feeling shackled by dancing it off! ♥

Sources:

(1) http://socialdance.stanford.edu/syllabi/smarter.htm

Image: http://7-themes.com/data_images/out/47/6929919-hip-hop-dance-pictures.jpg

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