Dance Therapy

Movement and the mind

Bodily movement is closely related to energy levels in the mind. Various pathologies in the brain reflect themselves through physical agility as well as immobility. Depression is well known to bring about anergia, diminished activity, over sleeping as well as ‘lazy and inert’ tendencies. Mania on the other hand is characterized by excessive activity, unrealistic bursts of energy, and ‘hyperactive tendencies’ with lessened need to rest. Movement is certainly more significant than the cognizance it receives in the world today. It arouses sub-conscious emotional, cognitive, social and behavioral changes. Dance and movement as a therapeutic modality have developed over the past few decades. Dance therapy is one of the most effective ‘expressive therapies’ today.

Mind-body connect

The body and mind are inseparable. This is evident through the tapping of feet and twiddling of thumbs in anxiety, need to pace around when one is restless and refusal to perform activities of daily living when severely depressed. These movements are distinct from sweating, trembling and other involuntary actions. When the mind and body are reconnected through an active and conscious process like dance or conscious movements, the sense of wholeness of the spirit returns and the net effect is similar to an endorphin release occurring after meditation, yoga or other systemic relaxation techniques.

Unconscious change

Dance therapy was introduced over 6 decades ago when dancing was noticed to unconsciously induce change in mood. Dance involves self-awareness, concentration and watchfulness. Solo or in a group, dancers have absolute internal focus. In ancient Hindu mythology the ‘taandav’ was a dance that incorporated intense movements and heated self-expression through gestures as well as action while dancing. It expended physical as well as negative psychological energies following which emotional catharsis was facilitated. Today the aerobic, zumba, belly dance, tango and others involve powerful movements (that can be extremely energy consuming) while those such as waltz, classical dance, ballet and ballroom dancing can incorporate soothing gestures (that seem to foster calmness). The essential impact is that of fatigue clubbed with a sense of fulfillment, serenity and peace.

Conscious change

If dance is embraced for a sentient change in mental state, it can act as one of the superior stress busters available today. Anxiety, depression and stress all disrupt muscle stability. The increase in cortisol (stress hormone) release strains all the muscles. Tension in the mind is reflected in tautness of the muscles. Dance and exercise consciously help to ease this rigidity. The release of the spasm leads to an overall endorphin discharge, which enhances a sense of well-being. The mindful use of dance and movement can work wonders for distracted and preoccupied cognition.

It works

Dance instructors teach dance (which is the core of what we need here). However dance and movement therapists are experts who offer proficient suggestions for its application in different therapeutic areas. Children with autism, inattention, hyperactivity, mathematics disorders, distractibility, tantrums; all benefit with dance when used remedially as well as unintentionally. So also adults with aggression, depression, phobias, stress and anxiety have significant reduction in symptoms. When applied with the right intents under the appropriate guidance the effects of dance are more targeted and responsive. Having two left feet is no defense. If we are willing to give ourselves a chance, it’s definitely worth a try… 

Ms.Dimple Parekh (MA) Dance Therapist at MINDFRAMES
Dr. Shefali Batra (MD) Psychiatrist at MINDFRAMES