Improving mental and physical health through belly dance – Evidence from a pilot study

ObjectivesPeople with mental illness can experience low levels of physical activity, low self-esteem, loneliness and social disconnection. This pilot study examined short-term benefits of participating in belly dance classes on mental and physical health.MethodsParticipants were recruited into one of two dance groups; each had a maximum of 12 people. They attended four weekly one-hour classes, completed questionnaires at baseline and after 4 weeks and participated in group discussions after each class.ResultsTwenty-one women participated, aged 19 to 87 years. At baseline, 52.4% rated their current mental health and wellbeing as very good or excellent increasing to 66.7% after 4 weeks and eight participants (38.1%) were receiving treatment for mental illness. After 4 weeks, 81% reported improved physical health and 76% noticed social improvements. All participants (100%) reported classes had a positive impact on their mental health and wellbeing and commented they felt more connected, less anxious, less self-conscious, happy and relaxed.ConclusionsThese findings suggest a brief series of belly dance classes may increase self-confidence, social connectedness, and overall mental and physical health. Belly dance could be a novel approach to address challenges such as social isolation, self-stigma and inactivity experienced by people with mental health conditions.