Movement therapy, also known as dance therapy, is a therapeutic method that uses dance and movement to improve physical, emotional and social well-being. It is therefore an increasingly popular healing practice these days. So, what is movement therapy? What are its benefits? Let yourself be guided and discover more about the subject in this article!
Learn more about movement therapy
What is movement therapy?
Emerging in the 1940s, movement therapy or dance therapy is a method that uses movement to stimulate mental, emotional and physical well-being . During a therapy session, the therapist will use various movements that he or she deems appropriate to the needs of the participants. The goal here is for them to express their emotions , have a better image of their own body and explore possibilities to connect with themselves and others . All in an area where participants feel confident and free to develop their full potential without judgment.
What distinguishes this therapy from other forms of body therapies?
Dance therapy involves spontaneity and authenticity , it does not follow predefined patterns as is generally the case with classical dance classes or other body therapies (yoga, tai chi). Here, the health professional adapts the sessions according to the needs of each participant in order to best support them. And above all, dance therapy does not aim for the perfection of movements , but rather the ability to express each gesture. The emphasis is on body dialogue: each person is encouraged to express themselves freely, as they wish.
What are the goals of movement therapy?
Dance therapy is associated with various objectives, which can of course vary depending on the person and the situation. The main objectives of this practice include:
- Emotional well-being : reducing stress, managing difficult emotions, promoting letting go and self-expression.
- Developing body awareness : improving perception of one's body, posture and relationship to space.
- Mental health support : improving the management of anxiety and depressive disorders, strengthening resilience to life events.
- Social connection : helping to create interpersonal connections, escape social isolation and establish relationships based on trust.
The Basics of Dance Therapy
Movement as the universal language of the body
It's no secret that the body often speaks louder than words. Indeed, each gesture or posture means something , reflects a state of mind, expresses an emotion. And dance therapy draws on this fact to allow participants to communicate without having to say words . The movements chosen by participants can allow them to express emotions that can be difficult to put into words: joy, love, sadness, fear, anger for example. In addition, gestures can also be used to develop communication with others .
The Mind-Body Connection
Many scientific studies have shown that the body and mind are deeply linked . A typical (and rather topical) example is that of stress: this emotion can indeed translate into physical pain, while moving can have a calming effect on the mind. Thus, movement therapy facilitates the exploration of emotions, sensations, memories . Which allows for a more in-depth awareness of oneself. During a dance therapy session, for example, we can find breathing exercises synchronized with the movement, with the aim of reducing tension and encouraging relaxation of the body (and mind).
Theoretical bases
Movement therapy has its roots in several different disciplines . First, it can be said to be inspired by psychology , with the aim of understanding the link between behavior and movement. In addition, neuroscience explains how the brain reacts to movement: by releasing endorphins, which improve mood and reduce stress. Finally, dance therapy also draws on somatic theories , which focus on how trauma is recorded in the body and how movement can release it.
The benefits of dance therapy
Physical benefits
Dance therapy has a positive impact on physical health above all. This is reflected in the following elements:
- Improved coordination and motor skills : Participants work on their balance, flexibility and endurance, which can be beneficial in rehabilitation settings.
- Muscle strengthening : the movements practiced, even those that seem simple, work the muscles, which helps to tone them.
- Better management of chronic pain : Regular and adapted movement can help reduce certain chronic pains by promoting blood circulation and releasing tension.
Psychological benefits
In addition, dance therapy is also recognized for its positive effect on mental health. And this includes:
- Reduced anxiety and stress : Repetitive movements, accompanied by music, can induce a state of deep relaxation.
- A boost in self-confidence : moving freely, without judgment, helps you accept yourself as you are and builds your self-esteem.
- Better expression of emotions : it offers a unique way to express emotions that we cannot verbalize, thus facilitating the management of trauma or difficult memories.
Social effects
Finally, dance therapy also helps foster socialization and connection . Indeed, group movement therapy sessions offer participants a means and an opportune time to build relationships , learn to communicate through movement, and develop trust. And it should also be mentioned that group interactions can be a way to help isolated or introverted people create a space for themselves and strengthen their social network.
How to access dance therapy?
Qualifications of dance therapists
Therapists specializing in this type of practice must have solid training in dance and psychology . These people follow specific training courses in order to subsequently offer their clients professional support. They must also be trained in such a way as to be able to work with different audiences , ranging from children to adults, and with more or less complex pathologies.
So, take the time to check the qualifications of the therapist you are considering, as well as their experience and reviews of their methods. It is essential that you feel comfortable and confident with the professional you choose.
Where to find sessions?
Dance therapy sessions can be accessed in a variety of locations . These include hospitals, rehabilitation centers, wellness centers, private practices (and even online practices). In addition, it is not impossible that some associations and community groups offer free or low-cost sessions, depending on the city.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dance can be much more than just an artistic and physical activity. Indeed, dance therapy proves that it is also a tool for transformation, liberation and reconnection. Thus, you understand that movement can be a true carrier of healing for the body, mind and soul. So, if you are looking for a different way to find balance, why not try dance therapy?
