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Dancing Is the Best Medicine

Written by: Julia F. Christensen, Dong-Seon Chang
Narrated by: Kristina Lao
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Publisher's Summary

An illuminating gift for the dancer in your life, this entertaining book reveals the mental and physical benefits of dance—and the scientific reasons behind why humans are designed for it.

Dancing is one of the best things we can do for our health. In this groundbreaking and fun book, two neuroscientists (who are also dancers) draw on their cutting-edge research to:

  • reveal why humans are hardwired for dance
  • show how to achieve optimal health through dancing

Taking listeners on an in-depth exploration of movement and music, from early humans up until today, the authors show the proven benefits of dance for our heart, lungs, bones, nervous system, and brain. Listeners will come away with a wide range of dances to try and a scientific understanding of how dance benefits almost every aspect of our lives.

  • Dance prevents and manages illness and pain such as diabetes, arthritis, back pain, and Parkinson’s.
  • Dance can be as effective as high-intensity interval training - but without the strain on your joints and heart.
  • Dance boosts immunity and lowers stress; it also helps reduce inflammation.
  • Dance positively impacts the microbiome and aids in digestion, weight loss, and digestive issues such as IBS.
  • Dance bolsters the mind-body connection, helping us get in tune with our bodies for better overall health.

We’re lucky that one of the best things we can do for our health is also one of the most fun. And the best part: Dance is something anyone can do. Old or young, injured or experiencing chronic pain, dance is for everyone, everywhere.

So, let’s dance!

Types of dance featured in the book:

  • Partner dance (salsa, swing dancing, waltz)
  • Ballet
  • Hip-hop
  • Modern
  • Jazz
  • Line dancing
  • Tap dancing
  • And more!
©2021 Julia F. Christensen and Dong-Seon Chang (P)2020, 2021 Greystone Books

What the critics say

“Dancing truly is a vehicle for joy, vitality, and healing, and Dancing Is the Best Medicine is full of inspiration for anyone who loves to dance, wants to dance, or hopes to encourage others to dance.” (Kelly McGonigal, best-selling author of The Joy of Movement)

“This book is a rich tapestry that makes dance central to a healthy life. Refreshingly down-to-earth and practical.” (Professor Helen Payne, PhD, author and dance movement psychotherapist) 

“Dance is powerful, affecting our physicality, our thoughts and emotions...and our brains. This enjoyable book translates the neuroscience of dancing into everyday language, making this body of knowledge accessible to all.” (Professor Vicky Karkou, dance movement psychotherapist) 

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