Dance your stress away: New research unveils the secrets of movement in stress management

The findings suggest that engaging in dance can facilitate emotional expression and foster social bonds, creating a powerful buffer against stress. These elements not only elevate mood but also stimulate the release of hormones like oxytocin and endorphins, which are linked to feelings of happiness and connection.  

The study suggests that music interventions reduced state anxiety, nervousness, restlessness, and feelings of worry, as well as salivary cortisol levels, heart rate, and blood pressure 

The paper, published in Psychology of Sport & Exercise, researches the relationship between dance and stress regulation – using multidisciplinary insights from psychology, neurobiology, and socio-cultural perspectives.  

By examining various dance forms, the research highlights how movement, music, and social connection can transform how we cope with life's challenges. 

The international team of academics – experts in teaching and learning dance - gathered data from a wide range of studies that investigated dance's effects on stress. This involved not only reviewing existing literature on dance but also exploring related topics, such as the impact of music and rhythm, social interaction, and the physiological responses to movement.  

Dr Jonathan Skinner, Reader in the Anthropology of Events and co-author of the study at the University of Surrey, said: 

“It’s fascinating to see how something as enjoyable as dance can have profound effects on our mental health. 

“Our research shows that by dancing, we can tap into a natural stress-relief mechanism that enhances our resilience and helps us cope with daily pressures.” 

Ultimately, this research suggests that incorporating dance into our weekly routines could be a simple yet effective strategy for improving mental health and resilience.