QuickCheck: Can dancing improve our memory?

TO MOST people, dancing is an expression of joy or an act of celebration. Some people go to clubs to “bust a move”, while others prefer the serenity of a dance studio to perfect their choreography and routines. Some do it to stay fit, while others do it to de-stress.

Dancing has almost always provided positive results for physical health. But there have also been studies that show a connection between dancing and improved memory.

Is dance able to improve memory power?

VERDICT:

TRUE

Yes, dancing has a positive impact on memory, and engaging in regular dance activities has been found to enhance cognitive function.

Apart from being a form of physical exercise, promoting body coordination and reducing stress, dance is also found to aid in learning and memory recall.

Dance routines often involve memorising choreography, sequences, and patterns.

Practicing and repeating these movements can enhance memory formation and recall abilities.

Learning new dance styles or steps also challenges the brain and helps create new neural pathways.

For a study in 2003, a group of researchers at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine looked at the effects of 11 types of physical activities, including cycling, golf, swimming, and tennis.

They found that only one lowered participants’ risk of dementia. Dance!

According to the researchers, dancing involves both a mental effort and social interaction, and this type of stimulation helped reduce the risk of dementia.

While dancing may not be the cure-all for memory problems, combined with a balanced diet, quality sleep, mental stimulation, and social interactions, it can further optimise memory and overall brain function.

When was the last time you danced?

International Dance Day was celebrated on April 29. The date was picked in honour of the birthday of Jean-Georges Noverre (1727-1810), who is considered the creator of modern ballet.

References:

https://hms.harvard.edu/news-events/publications-archive/brain/dancing-brain

https://www.news-medical.net/health/Is-Dancing-Good-for-the-Brain.aspx

https://www.cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/alzheimers-and-exercise.html

https://www.morethandancers.com/posts/this-is-how-dancing-helps-your-brain