Ever wonder why a person’s reaction to a win, success or goal is to do a little victory dance? Or maybe a little jig after taking the first bite in your favourite meal? It’s because it feels good! Experiments have proved the cognitive benefits of dancing. Dance psychologist Dr Peter Lovatt of the University of Hertfordshire says dancing triggers a significantly larger release of endorphins than any other form of exercise because it simultaneously connects with the emotional centres of the brain. In other words, it is a method of expression and for most that is pure happiness. It is universally understood that dance has a plethora of mental health benefits, including aiding in the reduction of our stress hormone, cortisol. Dancing leaves us feeling happy and relaxed, but it also encourages free flowing movement of the body, which leaves us with the sensation of feeling alive. I think we can all agree that this is incredibly important for students in today’s climate.

Most importantly, the art of Dance helps build confidence, especially in children. Learning choreography comes with a great sense of accomplishment, whilst performing in front of peers helps overcome shyness and foster key school values such as resilience and confidence. As their dancing skills improve and their confidence grows, our goal at Kinect2Dance is to get students to “dance like nobody’s watching” while everybody is watching.