This fall, I rediscovered an old love of mine: dance. Growing up, I spent countless hours at the local dance studio, practicing jazz and my absolute favorite, ballet. Beyond the physical benefits like coordination and flexibility, dance instilled valuable life lessons that I still cherish as an adult.
What Dance Has Taught Me: Enduring Benefits
My early dance training imparted several lasting advantages:
- Good Posture: Dance instilled in me the importance of standing tall with shoulders back and avoiding slouching. This awareness of posture continues to benefit me daily.
- Musicality: My ballet background cultivated a deep appreciation for classical music. Even now, I find myself drawn to classical pieces, and leading up to Christmas, I had the Nutcracker playing constantly! This musicality enhances my enjoyment of various genres.
- Discipline: Dance taught me the value of hard work and dedication to master a routine or a new move. This discipline has been instrumental in various aspects of my life, from academics to my professional career.
Stepping into Boogie Dance: From Ballet Shoes to Ballroom
Recently, I’ve traded my ballet slippers for ballroom heels and embraced a dynamic new style: Boogie Dance! This New Year’s Eve, I’ll be performing at the Prince George Civic Centre as part of Boogie with the Stars (BWTS). BWTS is an exciting biannual fundraising gala where members of the Prince George community team up and showcase their dance skills to raise money for local charities. Various teams participate, each supporting a different cause. My partner Gurinder and I are Team Wheelin’ Warriors of the North, and all our fundraising efforts will benefit the BC Cancer Foundation. We are preparing a lively salsa and swing fusion routine, incorporating elements of boogie dance! Re-entering dance lessons and exploring a new dance form has been incredibly invigorating. I had forgotten just how fantastic dance is for exercise and overall well-being.
My Boogie with the Stars dance partner, Gurinder, and I in practice.
Are you intrigued by the idea of dance? Here are compelling reasons to give boogie dance a try, including some benefits I’ve personally experienced:
- Fun and Engaging Exercise: Boogie dance is a fantastic way to get your body moving while having a blast. It’s a high-energy activity that doesn’t feel like a chore, making exercise enjoyable and sustainable.
- Social Connection: Boogie dance is inherently social. Whether you join a class or attend social dance events, it’s a wonderful way to meet new people, connect with your community, and build friendships.
- Improved Coordination and Flexibility: Like any dance form, boogie dance enhances your coordination, agility, and flexibility. The dynamic movements and steps challenge your body in a fun and rewarding way.
- Boosted Mood and Confidence: Dancing releases endorphins, which naturally elevate your mood and reduce stress. Mastering boogie dance steps and performing can significantly boost your self-confidence and body image.
- Musical Expression: Boogie dance allows you to express yourself creatively through movement and music. It’s a fantastic outlet for emotions and a way to connect with rhythm and melody.
With the New Year’s Eve countdown underway, Gurinder and I are diligently practicing our boogie-infused routine. Whether you have prior dance experience or are a complete beginner, I wholeheartedly encourage you to explore the world of boogie dance! Are there dance groups in your area? What style of dance appeals to you most? Consider taking the leap and discovering the joy of boogie dance for yourself!
