Dance Therapy

Several clinical reports suggest that dance therapy helps people accomplish the following:

• Develop positive body image
• Improve self-concept and self-esteem
• Reduce stress, anxiety, and depression
• Increase communication skills
• Encourage a sense of well-being

For some cancer patients, dance therapy is an effective form of exercise. However, dance therapy has not been studied enough to know if there are any unique health benefits to cancer patients, or to confirm the effects on prevention and/or recovery of illness.

Experts have shown that physical activity is known to increase special neurotransmitter substances in the brain (endorphins), which create a state of well-being. And total body
movement such as dance enhances the functions of other body systems, such as circulatory, respiratory, skeletal, and muscular systems. Dance therapy can help you stay physically fit and enjoy the pleasure of creating rhythmic motions with your body.

There are no known negative side effects of dance therapy. However, dance is a form of exercise. Always consult your physician before beginning any exercise program, especially if you have a chronic condition such as arthritis. Your physician can evaluate whether the physical movements of dance therapy might be harmful to your cardiovascular system, joints, or muscles.