Can Dance Therapy Really Ease Fibromyalgia Symptoms? Benefits You Can’t Ignore!

Dance therapy is a movement-based therapy that can help with both the physical and psychological symptoms of fibromyalgia. Dancing can reduce your anxiety and muscle tension and increase your mood and muscle tone.

Whether you decide to take individual lessons or a class, dance therapy has the ability to reduce the negative symptoms of your fibromyalgia.

Consider adding dancing to your physical activities to help you fight the physical and psychological conditions created because of your fibromyalgia.

Dancing can be intimidating to you at first, but stick with it and find a style that makes you feel good about yourself and more confident.

What is Dance Therapy?

Through dancing, fibromyalgia sufferers can improve both their physical and mental health. This movement therapy is a fun and easy way to battle the stiffness that is common for fibromyalgia patients.

There is no one specific form of dance therapy used; instead, you can participate in any type of dancing you feel comfortable with. You can take individual lessons or join a class, and you do not need any special training for these classes.

Most places offering dance therapy or dance classes will have a beginner’s class. Dance therapy is an alternative treatment for fighting fibromyalgia, but it is also a traditional way of exercising to build muscle strength and release tension.

Benefits of Dancing

The benefits of dancing are similar to those of any other low-impact physical activity. You will notice reduced anxiety and a more relaxed feeling. Your body will build muscle tone, lose weight, and feel healthier.

Dance people have increased circulation, which can help with fibromyalgia aches and pains. Mood issues such as depression can also be alleviated from movement therapy such as dance.

Each person may feel different benefits, but in general, these physical and psychological benefits will quickly present themselves when you start dance therapy.

Other physical benefits that are specific to dancing include improved posture and flexibility, which people suffering from fibromyalgia will also appreciate.

Tips for the Newcomer

When you first start dance therapy, it is important to take it slow. Dancing is similar to other physical exercises, such as walking or riding a bike, and your body will need time to get used to the increase in movement.

For newcomers, an introduction to dancing class may be the most fun. It will allow you to socialize with other new dancers and feel less awkward as you learn the initial steps.

Some people may prefer individual lessons, especially if you take the class with a spouse or loved one. In individual lessons, you will have the ability to customize what you are learning to the areas that interest you the most.

Take a friend with you on your lessons. If you do not have a spouse, your friend can be your partner and support while you get started as a dancer.

Classes

Taking a dance class can be very overwhelming if you are new to dancing. Before you begin a class, consider watching a session to see if you like it. Then, talk with the dance teacher about their style of dance and teaching philosophy.

If you have any concerns about your physical ability to participate in the class, you can also talk to the teacher about your limitations. Classes are a fun way to start out dancing because you can see the learning process for peers who are at the same level of dancing as you are.

Don’t be afraid to try a couple of different kinds of dancing or try different dance studios until you find a place where you feel comfortable. Use your friends and ask if they have ever tried any of your local dance studios to get the best references.

Psychological Improvements with Dance

Beyond the basic reduction in your stress levels and overall calmness that dance can elicit. Many people find dancing improves their self-confidence. As you learn and grow in your preferred dance method, you will become more comfortable and confident on the dance floor.

You might even see physical changes in your body, such as weight loss and more toned muscles, which will also help increase your positive feelings about yourself. Using dance to improve your psychological health is another great reason to try dancing to fight against your fibromyalgia.

You can benefit from dance therapy and should give it an opportunity to help improve how you feel emotionally.

Social Aspects of Dancing

Many people who struggle with fibromyalgia find themselves isolated in their homes and not interacting with others. You feel like your pain is unique or different from others, and it can be hard to talk with people about your symptoms.

Through dance, you can find others who also want to improve their physical and psychological health. You will find others who are interested in building their muscles and increasing their flexibility.

Dance is the perfect opportunity to grow your social network and meet new and interesting people. Some studios even have free dancing events once a week, where couples from other sessions can come together for a fun-filled night of dancing.

Choosing to try dance therapy as a way to fight your fibromyalgia symptoms may seem a little unconventional, but it is a great way to have fun and get moving. Ask a friend or loved one to join you if you are nervous about trying this exercise method alone.

It is also important to ask your instructor questions before starting any dance program to ensure the level of dancing is appropriate for your skill levels.

Using dance to reduce your anxiety and muscle tension is a great way to actively fight the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Try individual lessons or dance classes to see which one works best for you in the most exciting dance style.