Healing with the Rhythm

Dance has long been associated with spirituality and healing. In the ancient times many dances were performed to either ward off the evil or to appease the Gods. Different dances were practiced for different Gods. In the present times one may not perceive dance as a way to wash away sins or atonement and just shoo away the idea as archaic. It may be discarded as an ancient myth or a tribal superstition.

But even the modern day psychologists cannot deny the healing powers of the art. A trend that is gaining exceeding amount of popularity is that of dance therapy. In this therapy, dance becomes the healer. In therapeutic dances, every level of human existence is touched upon- the body, the mind and the soul. The dances performed for therapeutic purposes are especially according to the ailment. The dances are designed so as to focus on the problem area in such a way that that body part is focused upon which needs to be healed. Dance therapies have proven to work for common problems like high blood pressure, imbalanced blood sugar and high level of stress.

The beautiful art is put to use to cure some serious ailments too in form of Dance Movement Therapy (DMT). The psychotherapeutic use of movement and dance is made for improving the emotional, cognitive, social, behavioral and physical conditions. The movements are designed in such a way that they strengthen the body/mind connection through body movements and improve both the mental and physical well-being of individual. This in turn gives a healthy balance and sense of wholeness.

DMT sessions are configured around four main stages: preparation, incubation, illumination, and evaluation. The theory of DMT is based upon the idea that “the body and mind are inseparable. DMT can be used to heal serious disorders and diseases. Although DMT is promoted to reduce stress and center the body, this therapy is very effective in helping to heal other disabilities and diseases. One such disorder is Autism as the therapists connect on a sensory-motor level and provides a sense of acceptance and expands skills and cognitive abilities and also increases maturity. Another area is Learning Disabilities. Movements to be performed focus on developing better organizational skills, learning/experiencing control and choice, building higher self confidence and new inspirations to learn.

The DMT can also be used in case of Mental Retardation as it improves the body image, social skills, coordination, and motor skills, and also promotes communication. The deaf and Hearing Impaired can also benefit from DMT as it reduces the feelings of isolation and provides inspiration for relationships. For the Blind and visually impaired, it improves body image, motor skills, and personal awareness. The Physically Handicapped can improve their motor skills and body image, and learn a way to communicate and express emotions. To the elderly it provides social interaction, expression, and exercise. Also it alleviates fears of loneliness and isolation. DMT can also be helpful in curing Eating Disorders by altering distorted body images which helps in ending destructive behaviors. For a PTSD victim it weaves together past and present through symbolism in a “safe place” to confront painful memories. DMT is also great for expecting mothers. It is used for Holistic Birth Preparation as it implores relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety, learn breathing techniques and release energy; it also builds confidence to help cope with labor, birth and early parenting.

Therefore we see that our favorite hobby is not just a hobby, it can be used to beautify lives and bring back vigor to the lives that have lost their luster.

Reference:- Wikipedia/Dance Therapy http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dance_therapy