DANCE BENEFITS

(Extracted from Jo & John Kinser TIPs of DANCE BENEFITS)
Seems like everyone these days has such a busy schedule that finding time to play is becoming increasingly difficult. When you consider the many benefits of dance, you realize how valuable dancing can be, especially for anyone with little spare time. Dancing is a great hobby that allows you to exercise and socialize at the same time, and have fun in the process!

THE TOP 10 BENEFITS OF DANCE:

1. MAKE NEW FRIENDS!
Dancing is a very social activity, allowing you to meet people from a wide variety of backgrounds and of all ages. Couples make new 'couples' friends, and singles meet other singles. Whether you're in a dance class or attending a dance party, it's a great way to socialize.

2. GET HEALTHY EXERCISE!
Raise your body's metabolism while burning off excess calories. You won't even realize your working out because you're having so much fun! Dancing provides a great way to shake out the muscle kinks and the tension you acquire in your daily grind.

3. GET OUT AND NETWORK!
No more "Couch Potato", "Computer Nerd", or "Workaholic!" Become a dancer and you'll look forward to attending your next dance activity. Plus, your new friends from the dance world create a great networking forum.

4. DO SOMETHING FUN TOGETHER!
Social dancing provides a fun activity for you and your significant other to enjoy as a couple. Group classes are entertaining as well as informative. You'll share many laughs and enjoy the bond between you strengthen as you learn a new hobby together.

5. CREATE BALANCE IN YOUR LIFE!
Of course dancing helps you with physical balance and coordination, but it also helps you mentally. Our lives have become so mechanized, computerize, televised, etc. that many of us have lost touch with or bodies and the energy generated when we are physically active. Dancing improves your posture, the way you carry and project yourself, how you interact with others, your level of self-confidence, as well as your mental attitude. It gives you that "get up and go!" and "just do it!" feeling in life.

6. INCREASE YOUR SOCIAL SKILLS!
Partner dancing has been a valued and respected social skill throughout the ages and is now more popular than ever! As you learn to dance you will gain confidence, knowing you can go out and feel comfortable mixing with people. You will enjoy the respect of others and the popularity that goes along with being a good dancer!

7. EXPAND YOUR DATING HORIZONS!
Dance classes, clubs and parties provide a great venue for meeting other singles in a setting that feels more natural than dating networks. While you're attending an event to practice your dance skills you may discover that you 'click' with someone special! However, if you don't feel 'sparks', there are no expectations, you simply thank them for the dance and move on. Most importantly, you'll have fun just dancing! You'll also be amazed at the number of people you'll meet!

8. "HEAR THAT FUNKY MUSIC!"
As members of the human race, music is our birth rite! Rhythm is at the core of our lives, from our heartbeat, to our daily routines, to the flow of the seasons. It is no wonder music speaks to our souls! Music lifts our spirits as it helps relieve our stresses and worries. What greater way to bring more music into your life than through dance!

9. IT'S INEXPENSIVE!
Compared to other recreational activities and hobbies, dancing is very inexpensive. You can take an hour dance class for ten dollars and receive all of the benefits listed above as you learn a valuable lifelong skill. That's a great deal!

10. BECAUSE YOU CAN AND IT'S FUN!
Anyone can become an accomplished social dancer. Unlike Ballet or Jazz, you don't need years of training to learn partner dancing. Within a few weeks of group classes you'll be leading or following your dance partners at the clubs and parties. You're a dancer! Best of all, you'll really have fun!