BLAST THE BLUES WITH THE BOOGIE 2011

According to research by the World Health Organisation, depression is the number one psychological problem in the western world, and is growing in all age groups.

The organisation has predicted that by 2020, depression will be the second most common cause of morbidity worldwide, behind heart disease.
But research has also found that dancing in particular lowers levels of stress hormones and significantly lowers levels of depression. As well as being a great form of physical exercise, attending regular dance classes can also provide wider benefits such as social interaction and self-confidence, which contributes to improved self-esteem.
One unique and relatively new type of dance class in the UK, run entirely by mums, is also trying to educate busy, and often stressed-out adults and parents, about the benefits of letting loose and having a good boogie.

‘Popdance’ teaches over 18s professionally-choreographed routines to pop classics from the 80s through to the ‘noughties,’ by artists such as Kylie, Michael Jackson and Girls Aloud, as well as movie themes such as Flashdance and Footloose.

In short, dance and exercise also helps suppress Cortisol, the stress hormone, so you can’t lose by having a good dance around!”
Sue, who added that her taking part in the Popdance classes often lifts her mood after a taxing day, concluded:
“Learning the new dance moves, listening to great dancey music, moving your body, exercising and laughing with others can’t possibly feel the same as sitting at home feeling low. Why not give it a try?”