Square Dance Your Way to Better Health
By Tom Herrin
Once upon a time, a song offered up the words "Don’t worry, be happy." Many times people don’t take enough time for just plain recreation. It is always good to branch out into something different. It is unfortunate that so often people look for the newest thing on the cutting edge of society. Looking back at activities that may have been around years ago is not all bad. One of those that is still alive and kicking in some places is square dancing. There are many groups that have regular sessions with large turnouts. It can be great way to find activity, and they can be fulfilling for the whole family. And when you actually take the time to participate in something like square dancing -- and just about any type of dancing can be substituted -- there's a good chance you'll be happy.
It Provides Exercise
Anyone who has ever done any square dancing is well aware that it is pretty good exercise. There is constant movement. Dancing to music always adds some extra incentive. As people maintain a rhythm, they are likely to move a lot without realizing just how much. It is believed that a night of square dancing can be equal to walking three to five miles. That is a pretty fair workout. The fact that dancers are moving faster than a walk is not bad either. It can be a way of toning and shaping the muscles while enjoying an evening of dancing.
It Stimulates the Mind
The calling and instructions in square dancing require some careful listening. Knowing and carrying out the various moves also causes the mind to have to process what is intended. Those who dance are able to keep an active mind and an upbeat spirit. There is normally quite a bit of interaction with others participating. This is always stimulating. Socializing can help people to have meaningful conversations.
It Can Be a Stress Reliever
You can cap off a day with an evening of square dancing. The activity can be both relaxing and energizing. Looking forward to such social activities can make your day go better. You anticipate the joy and then experience it. You also tend to develop relationships with the people who regularly attend the dances. There are a lot of pros to engaging in such an activity, and it may complete the week for you -- it might even be the highlight of the entire week. If you want to do something different, and have a lot of fun doing it, join a square dance or some type of dancing group.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Huntersville, N.C.