Sharon Phelan
The Institute of Technology in Tralee, Ireland
Title: Physical activity and well-being: An exploration of the mental and physical benefits achievable through dance
Biography
Biography: Sharon Phelan
Abstract
This paper explores the dance process as a means through which mental and fitness can be improved. Initially, the paper defines the interconnections between the body and the mind during the dance process. It challenges Descartes notion of Cartesian dualism; there the body and the mind are viewed as separate entities. Instead, the paper identifies where the dancer’s mind and body become fused as s/he dances. Ultimately, at this point the dancer becomes the dance and it is during this transcendental state, that the dancer’s mental and physical fitness are challenged in congruence. The paper moves on to addresses the physical benefits of dance. The approach will be twofold. Firstly, the paper will identify where regular dance sessions can develop components of fitness - cardio-respiratory fitness, muscular fitness and flexibility. In addition, sample dance types, which are particularly useful in the improvement of specific components of fitness, are identified. Finally, the paper outlines the mental benefits of dance. It focuses on dance as a form of self-expression and emotional release. It explores dance as a means through which a person’s self-confidence and self-esteem can be improved. It explores the social benefits of dance and it examines where dance can be used as a tool through which a person’s cultural identity can be identified and affirmed.