Hello dance lovers! Naomi here, also known as the 'Dancing Doctor'. As the founder of dance school Salsa Brisa and organizer of 20 festivals, including the Limburg Salsa Bachata Kizomba Festival and the Sardinia Salsa Festival, I have a rich experience in the world of dance. My good friend Vanessa from Miss Salsa, the driving force behind Miss Salsa, has asked me to share my experiences and insights about dance and health. This blog is a special contribution to her website, where we share our passion for dance and health.

Dance and health: a personal journey

My journey in the dance world began more than 20 years ago. As an integrative general practitioner and dancer, I have had the unique opportunity to experience and observe the enormous impact of dance on health and well-being. Dancing is not only a fantastic way to stay fit, but it also has a tremendous effect on our mental and emotional health. And believe me, if you've ever tried to do a salsa spin without knocking over your partner, you know it's great for your coordination too!

Gut health and dance: a perfect combination

My focus has always been on the prevention of (autoimmune) diseases and health. As the 'Salsa Doctor', I have seen how dancing, with its energetic movements and rhythms, can work wonders for our gut health. The spins and movements act like an internal workout, which not only strengthens our abdominal muscles but also improves our gut health. And let's be honest, who wouldn't want a healthy gut and a radiant smile on the dance floor?

From wallflower to shining star

Let me share a story that is close to my heart. A young man came to me for private lessons, sent by his psychologist to become a bit more confident. Group lessons were a big 'no' for him; he could hardly look me in the eye during the first lesson, let alone dance together. But dance has something magical about it; it breaks down barriers and builds confidence. 

I still remember a turning point for him. During a lesson, a few months later, a cheerful salsa song played. Hesitantly, he began to move, first awkwardly, but soon with more confidence. And then, almost as if he couldn't believe it himself, he smiled - a real, joyful smile, while he danced. It was as if he finally not only heard the music but also felt it.

After a while, he became more confident. And to make a long story short: when he eventually joined group lessons, he treated a girl at the bar to a drink afterward. And they had fun together. His transformation was not only a victory for him but also an inspiration for many. And me? I was a happy egg, witnessing the power of dance that made someone bloom before my eyes.

Dance: a natural remedy for stress

In my general practice, I often recommended the healing power of dance for patients struggling with stress, burnout, or depression. When we dance, we stimulate the release of endorphins, known as 'happiness hormones'. These natural chemicals in our body reduce pain and increase the feeling of well-being. Moreover, dancing leads to the release of serotonin and dopamine, hormones that improve our mood and give us a sense of happiness. The combination of physical activity, music, and social interaction makes dancing an effective way to reduce stress and improve mental health. It's as if you dance your worries away to the rhythm of the music, while your body produces a cocktail of happiness hormones.

Dance Your Heart Healthy

Did you know that dancing is great for your heart? Not just in a romantic sense, but literally. Salsa dancing is a fantastic cardio workout. It keeps your heart rate up and improves your endurance. But it doesn't stop at your heart; it's also a boost for your brain. Dancing enhances cognitive functions and reduces stress, contributing to better mental health and reducing the risk of dementia. And it's much more fun than running on a treadmill while staring at a wall. In salsa, you at least get to look at smiling faces (or someone trying to remember which step comes next). So when you dance, you're not only doing something good for your heart but also for your brain. Killing two birds with one stone!

Dancing with Parkinson's or Dementia

I also work a lot with people with Parkinson's and dementia. With Parkinson's patients, I have seen how the rhythm of salsa helps them walk better, almost as if the music guides them. I remember a Parkinson's patient who had trouble walking, but as soon as the salsa music started, he moved with a fluidity that was rare in daily life. It was as if the music created a path for his body to move naturally.

With dementia, dance brings intimacy back between caregivers and their loved ones. Dancing allows them to communicate in a new, intimate way, beyond the limits of verbal interaction. A particularly touching moment was when a caregiver danced with her husband who has dementia; the smile and recognition in his eyes as they moved together was powerful evidence of the invisible bonds that dance can strengthen.

It is moving to see how dance reconnects people, allows them to touch, and lets them enjoy time together. It transcends the limitations of their conditions and brings a moment of pure happiness and connection.

A Cultural Journey on the Dance Floor

My love for dance and travel has taken me around the world. Each dance style has its own unique charm and cultural background. By dancing, you not only make a physical journey but also a cultural exploration. And the best part? You don't need a passport, just dance shoes! Thanks to Miss Salsa, you can make that journey in style and comfort.

Conclusion: Dance Your Way to Health and Happiness

So there you have it, my dear dance friends. Dancing, especially with the beautiful shoes of Miss Salsa, is a path to a healthier and happier life. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced dancer, the benefits of dancing are endless. So put on your dancing shoes and let the magic of dance guide you to a better version of yourself.

Keep dancing,

Drs. Naomi Dongelmans, general practitioner, aka the Dancing Doctor