Fred Astaire Dance Studios urges people to cut loose on the dance floor to help reduce stress and alleviate anxiety during trying times.
Watching Russia’s invasion of Ukraine unfold on national television and social media is mobilizing Americans to take action by providing humanitarian aid and support for the people of the democratic nation. At the same time, the onslaught of grim news is contributing to rising stress levels throughout the United States. A new report from the American Psychological Association reveals global unrest, inflation, and supply chain issues are quickly becoming significant sources of stress for many Americans. Results from the poll are particularly troubling as people are still coping with stress caused by the ongoing pandemic.
If global strife, childcare responsibilities, work commitments, and financial obligations are stressing you out, you are not alone. Stress causes adverse health problems in 43% of Americans, and at least 75% of all visits to the doctor are from stress-related issues. Stress can cause headaches, muscle tension, chest pain, fatigue, decreased sex drive, and stomach problems. High stress levels may lead to lack of motivation, overeating, substance abuse, and depression, the Mayo Clinic reported.
Fred Astaire Dance Studios is doing its part to help Americans de-stress. Our local studios provide a safe haven where people can briefly cast their worries aside and let their bodies move to the music. While reducing screen time, eating a healthy diet, and meditation can all help reduce stress, we recommend hitting the dance floor. Here are a few reasons dancing is the best stress reliever.
- Boosts Mood. Dancing releases endorphins, which are natural painkillers and can help elevate mood and improve focus.
- Fosters Creativity. Dancing provides a creative outlet for expressing your emotions in a positive atmosphere.
- Soothes Body. Dancing helps increase flexibility, which relieves tension and stiffness caused by stress.
Fred Astaire Helped Americans Cope During Stressful Time
Our founder, Fred Astaire, brought ballroom dancing to the masses during another stressful time in American history. During the Great Depression, watching films showcasing Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers tripping the light fantastic helped many Americans weather the difficult time. Astaire took his commitment to helping the American people a step further when he co-founded Fred Astaire Dance Studios in 1947. He wanted to establish a chain of studios under his name to make sure that his techniques would be preserved and passed onto the public.
Take a look at some of Fred and Ginger’s celebrated scenes from their popular films.
In this clip, Fred and Ginger perform a tap dance to “Too Hot to Handle” in the movie “Roberta.”
In the movie “Top Hat,” which debuted in 1935, Fred and Ginger have a romantic moment dancing to “Heaven.”
Fred and Ginger kick up their heels during a spirited dance in the movie, “Swing Time.”
FADS Highlights Stress Awareness Month
Stress Awareness Month rolls around every April to call attention to the impacts of stress on physical health and mental well-being. Learn more about how dancing can help reduce stress by contacting your local Fred Astaire Dance Studios location to schedule a lesson.
