Whenever experts recommend different types of physical exercise for physical and mental health, they talk to us about various activities such as walking, cycling, swimming, running, strength exercises… But this time the recognized neuroscientist Nazareth Castellanos She has been more precise and has recommended us the one she considers to be the best. Or, at least, the one who thinks he can do the most. benefit brain health.
He The exercise this neuroscience expert talks about is dance.. And why is it so good? According to this neuroscience expert, “it has been shown that dance strengthens the somatosensory cortexl, the area of the brain that accounts for what is happening outside our body. Sensations, posture, movement, temperature, etc. If we strengthen this area, more neurons are incorporated and their connections are strengthened, which is a great advantage in facing the loss of neurons that occurs with age,” says Castellanos.
This statement is shared Gisela Schwartz, dancer, dance teacher and creator of the movement Dance and connectan initiative that seeks to demonstrate the important benefits of dance for people, regardless of age or physical condition. In this way, the dancer has been teaching sessions of approximately an hour and a half since 2023 in the whate works on rhythm, expression, strength, coordination, as well as mindfulness. We have spoken with her so that she can explain to us in detail why dance is so beneficial and to explain to us if this exercise is suitable for women over 50 years of age and, specifically, what type of dance is the best. We start with a simple question: what is the main benefit of dance on a cerebral and emotional level?
© Adobe StockThe benefits of dance
For Gisela Schwarzt, there are no doubts: The greatest benefit of dance is joy. “In a world like the one we live in today, being able to practice an activity that brings you joy is priceless,” he says. But the dance doesn’t stop there. Dancing activates the body, mind and heart.
When we dance, improves our coordination, flexibility and strengtheven without realizing it. “Because when you dance you work different parts of your body, many of them without realizing it.” Added to all this is the power of music, which can awaken memories, emotions and a unique connection with the present moment.
And the best? You don’t need to be a professional dancer. Just move to the rhythm of the music to feel the physical and emotional benefits. Speaking of emotions, how does dance help us manage them?
Spontaneous movements: 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 movements are a very good tool to connect with our emotions. “Sometimes words are not enough to describe what we feel, and spontaneous movements allow the body to express itself.”
These types of movements not only frees us from tensionbut also connects us with our authenticity. Gisela sums it up simply: “When there is no judgment, when it doesn’t matter if you are an expert or not, that is when true expression happens.” Thus, dancing becomes a safe space to release emotions, let go of burdens and reconnect with our essence.
When the participants manage to follow the rhythm of the music, they generate an emotion of personal improvement and self-confidence that is not easy to achieve.
Group dancing: a unique connection experience
Did you know that dancing in a group can synchronize 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 hearts automatically synchronize. A collective experience is created that generates a feeling of belonging to the group”.
in your program Dance and Connectthe sessions are not only spaces to move, but to create emotional bonds with others. “Our goal is to create a climate in which it doesn’t matter how you come or what personal backpack you bring. During the hour and a half “For the duration of the meeting, most of the participants end up experiencing total joy.”
In addition, overcoming challenges such as following the rhythm or synchronizing movements with other people generates great personal satisfaction. Gisela describes it like this: “When the participants manage to follow the rhythm of the music, they generate a emotion of personal improvement and confidence in themselves that is not easy to achieve.”
© Adobe StockThe physical benefits of dance: beyond exercise
What makes dance ideal for people over 50? Unlike other exercises, dancing not only strengthens the body, but is also a exercise for the soul. “Dance improves everything: coordination, flexibility, balance and cardiovascular health,” says Gisela.
Plus, dancing is a fun way to stay active and socializesomething fundamental at this stage of life. “When you reach a certain age, after having dedicated your life to family or work, you need to practice an activity that makes you happy. In my case it is dance, and that is what I also perceive from the women who come to Dance and Connect”.
Dancing is much more than moving; is to feel, express and live the present fully
Who can dance? We all can!
If you have ever thought that dancing is not for you, Gisela has a clear message: “We can all dance. Regardless of age or body, “No one should be left wanting to enjoy music.”
You don’t need a stage or complicated choreography. According to the dancer, you can start at homein the kitchen while you prepare dinner or following the rhythm with your foot while listening to music in the car. “Sometimes we have to leave our comfort zone to experience the unimaginable benefits that dancing brings.”
Gisela knows what she’s talking about. Herself He resumed dancing after 50 yearsand he assures that it was one of the best decisions of his life. “I feel like the luckiest woman in the world for having encouraged me to take that step.”
© Adobe StockDancing after 50: an invitation to happiness
Dance is not only a physical exercise, but also an emotional journey that transforms lives. Gisela Schwarzt describes it passionately: “Dancing is much more than moving; is to feel, express and live the present fully”.
So, if you are over 50 and looking for an activity that will restore your energy, connection and joy, don’t hesitate. Go out dancing, let the music guide you and discover everything that dance can do for you. Your body and mind will thank you.