Dance is far more than just an art form or a pastime—it’s a powerful tool for improving both physical and mental health. A recent systematic review and meta-analysis confirms what many have intuitively suspected: dancing not only offers the benefits of traditional exercise but may even surpass it in some aspects, particularly when it comes to cognitive function, motivation, and emotional well-being.
Dancing: A Full-Body, Full-Mind Experience
While physical exercise has long been recommended for promoting brain health, this new analysis—led by Dr. Alicia Fong Yan from the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Sydney—shows that structured dance programs of six weeks or more can significantly enhance psychological and cognitive well-being. The study analyzed 27 trials with 1,392 participants and found that dance interventions often resulted in higher motivation and adherence compared to conventional physical exercise. This is crucial because long-term commitment to any physical activity is key to sustaining health benefits.
“If you enjoy the activity, you’re more likely to stick with it,” emphasizes Dr. Fong Yan. The social interaction, eye contact, creative expression, and group dynamics of dance make it an enjoyable and sustainable practice for many, fostering better mental health outcomes.
Cognitive and Emotional Advantages
The study reveals that while both exercise and dance improve cognition, dance shows superior effects in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. These findings align with the observations of Alicia Leal Álvarez, a physical education teacher in Madrid, who views dance as a valuable tool against what she calls “the pandemics of depression and sedentary lifestyles.”
Dr. Ana Belén López-Rodríguez, a Spanish neuroscientist and flamenco dancer, further supports these findings. Although she was not involved in the study, she highlights how dance activates multiple brain regions simultaneously. “Learning choreography engages memory, balance, motor coordination, spatial awareness, and body consciousness. Dancing in front of a mirror even helps improve posture,” she explains.
Beyond that, dance stimulates the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a molecule that fosters the formation of new neural connections, contributing to cognitive reserve and resilience against neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
What Happens in the Brain When We Dance?
Dancing triggers the release of endorphins, the so-called “happiness hormones,” reducing stress and enhancing mood. But it goes deeper than that. According to López-Rodríguez, dancing creates a “neurochemical soup” that amplifies positive emotions, relaxation, empathy, and social connection, while simultaneously lowering cortisol levels and curbing negative thought patterns.
“Dancing helps us achieve homeostasis—a state of balance that promotes overall well-being,” she explains. This neurochemical balance is one reason why dance can be particularly effective in alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression.
A Path Forward for Research and Practice
The University of Sydney team advocates for more extensive research to explore the diverse health benefits of dance across different age groups and clinical populations. While existing studies often focus on cognitive benefits for older adults and mental health outcomes in younger groups, future research could examine how various dance styles—such as tango, salsa, or flamenco—affect specific aspects of health.
Dr. Fong Yan also highlights the importance of documenting the specifics of dance interventions—such as intensity, balance challenges, cognitive demands, and creative elements—so they can be properly compared to traditional exercise regimens.
Dr. López-Rodríguez goes one step further, suggesting that dance could even be prescribed as a form of therapy, much like it is in some countries. With a playful nod to popular fitness trends, she adds: “Why not create a flamenco fit or ballet crossfit if the science supports it?”
Conclusion
Whether it’s flamenco, salsa, or any other dance style, the simple act of moving to music offers profound benefits for both mind and body. Unlike some forms of exercise that may feel like a chore, dance invites joy, social connection, and creative expression—making it a uniquely powerful practice for enhancing mental health, cognitive function, and overall well-being.