Dancing To Mental Health – The Transformative Power Of Music And Movement
- Mar 20, 2024
- 3 min read
Written by: Irina Proskurina, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Artem Syzdykov helps his students improve mental health and thrive in competitions by blending his expertise as a dance coach with a degree in robotics.
Is it the way we move, the ambiance, the music, or the connection with our partners? Science hasn’t quite figured out why dancing improves how our brains and bodies function. But the fact is that dance can literally work miracles in our lives.
An intricate movement of neurochemicals are at the core of the dance-mind connection. When we dance our brains release endorphins, the chemicals that give us a natural high, as well as serotonin and dopamine, making us feel happier.
California-based dance coach Artem Syzdykov first discovered the spark behind the movement-mind connection as a student of robotics engineering. However, dancing brought him a greater sense of joy and fulfillment than his technological pursuits.
Inspired by the positive impact of graceful movement on his life, Syzdykov applied his engineering skills to creating a dance teaching method that integrates mind and body as a system.
Entrepreneurs, top-level corporate executives, and dance champions have already benefited enormously from Syzdykov’s method.
How often do people come to you to dance as a cure for depression?
It’s hard to tell because we don’t have the data, but many people come to dance because they feel depressed, lonely, or can’t lose weight. After improving their health through dance and finding a community, some students even decide to compete in championships.
We mostly find out about their struggles only later, after they get over their symptoms and once again feel joy for life. Many take up dancing after traumatizing events: for example, one of our students lost her husband but was able to rediscover a zest for life and connection through dance.
Why is dance so effective in curing depression?
A lot of mental health issues originate in our thinking patterns. Dancing helps us broaden our perspective, and see the world differently. People allow themselves to shift dimensions and expand their boundaries. On the dance floor, they can let go and become someone new. It’s incredibly liberating and has the power to transform lives.
Are there any physiological tips and tricks that dance coaches use to keep people motivated?
This depends on the dancer’s personality. For example, most people are nervous during dance championships, so I support them as much as I can. But I recall one professional dancer who is used to performing solely under pressure. Whenever I praised her it had the opposite effect and she struggled to continue; but it was a challenge to withhold praise at times.
For dance coaches, it’s important to motivate people by highlighting their progress. I am always very happy to see my students, who’ve overcome their stress and health issues, thrive on the dance floor.
How can one find a great dance coach?
The most effective method is word of mouth. For example, many people approach us after watching our student performances in dance competitions.
It's crucial that the coach's personality aligns well with yours. Look at how they interact with their students. Are they compassionate or projecting their own unfulfilled ambitions onto them?
At times, coaches may demand more from their students than from themselves. Each dancer has a unique journey and aspirations, and it's essential for a coach to honor and respect individuality.
Irina Proskurina, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Irina Proskurina is a proud CEO and founder of E-PR Online Agency – a New York-based digital platform that leverages online publications in the world’s most renowned media outlets to help people and businesses grow their brands. With years of experience in PR under her belt, she witnessed amazing client success stories: explosive audience reach boost, growth in SERP rankings and traffic, excellent brand reputation – you name it. She’d like to share these stories to inspire readers to pursue PR strategies for their business endeavors. Her services allow companies to grow their brand essence, increase engagement with their target audience, capitalize on SEO and carve a unique space in their mark.
