Dance! It may improve your writing.
If you're reading this post, you spend some time online. And if you've spent any time online over the past week, you have probably seen the following massively played video.
While I've enjoyed Dancing Matt Harding's joyful, international dance-travel just because it's magical, I've discovered another compelling reason why he is a revolutionary of inspiration. One of today's posts on the Well blog from the New York Times mentions studies which tie dancing to increased brain functioning and healing. An excerpt:
...A telling 2003 New England Journal of Medicine report showed a lower risk for dementia among people over 75 who regularly danced during leisure time. But what was so surprising about the report is that other types of physical exercise didn’t affect dementia risk — dancing was the only physical activity that made a difference.
Other studies have shown music plays an important role in depression. Dance therapy has been used to relieve anxiety about taking tests, and researchers are studying the tango to help patients with Parkinson’s. Dance therapy has been shown to improve the quality of life for breast cancer patients as well...
I've joked in past posts that I use my writing music mixes for "my pre-writing dance session". Now I see a connection between these fun, solitary dance sessions giving my brain power a boost and, possibly, improving my writing.
So, in honor of inspiring dancer Matt and dancers/writers worldwide, stand up, clear yourself a private dance floor, and improve your writing skills — by dancing. Enjoy.
Awesome video! I hadn't seen it before.
Posted by: Melissa Marsh | July 11, 2008 at 02:58 PM
Melissa — So glad you liked it! But are you inspired to dance ... and write?
Posted by: KG | July 11, 2008 at 03:07 PM
This is very interesting!
I for one am inspired to dance. I have often thought of dancing more, now I have an excuse! Also I must admit I'm almost anxious to find out how it will enhance my writing.
I just came upon this video sometime in the last two weeks. I found I became inspired by it as I continued to watch it, but I should also say I wasn't at first. With that said, I encourage everyone to watch it until the end.
Posted by: lily | July 12, 2008 at 05:28 PM
Hi Kristin,
This is a really interesting post. I'm a shy girl who likes to dance but only in the shelter of her closed abode.....but dancing regularly after reading this post might build confidence and also help me improve the spark in me...Thanks :)
Posted by: meghnak | July 13, 2008 at 05:45 AM
lily — Yes, use this as an excuse to dance more. It seems it can only benefit us, and it is so much fun!
meghnak — You're welcome. If this post give you license to dance more, take it and boogie! Some of the best only-at-home dancers are excellent on a public dance floor: they've had more time to practice without being swayed by other dancers/dance trends, AND they have the most original dance moves.
I like to think of dancing as an expression of self, of originality, so there is really no way to go wrong here. Just keep on dancing and enjoying it!
Posted by: KG | July 15, 2008 at 12:28 AM
Indeed inspiring. Dance is great. Movement is essential. Especially for those of us on-line as much as we are. Wish you would be joining me for a dance at BlogHer.
Posted by: Linda Sherman | July 15, 2008 at 02:49 AM
Linda — Yes, we online people need to stop sitting so much and keep moving! Good reminder. Have a wonderful time at BlogHer. :)
Posted by: KG | July 15, 2008 at 11:01 AM
This is a wonderful post! I hadn't seen the video before and did find it very inspiring. I have always loved both to write and to dance - I'm currently taking 3-4 classes a week at the Downtown Dance Collective (www.ddcmontana.com), a new studio here. I haven't had much time to write lately, so I couldn't tell you if it's improved my writing, but it has certainly made me a happier person. I think dance can be very important in making a whole person, because it is such a wonderful outlet for self-expression involving your whole body. It's great to dance by yourself and also to share with others, becoming part of something bigger!
Posted by: Leslie | July 16, 2008 at 01:50 PM
Leslie — When I read your comment, I was really hit with how powerful blogging is to spread information, inspire and start conversations. Thanks so much for writing about the DDC — I love hearing about community-based dance places like that.
Let us know if you notice your dancing improving your writing, and keep on dancing! :)
Posted by: KG | July 17, 2008 at 12:18 AM