If you are a follower or have read my book, you likely know that I extoll the virtues of dance and movement when it comes to healing. If you have not tried it, what are you waiting for? You do not have to be a dancer or even coordinated to use dance as therapy, and the benefits are positively incredible, and can usually be felt pretty quickly.

We all have been touched by music at some point in our lives, and different songs bring back memories or cause us to feel happiness, pain, and many other emotions. Movement to music is organic and has been practiced by humans since the dawn of time – in religious or cultural ceremony, preparation for big events (from hunting/gathering to test preparation to healing). Dance is the body’s way of expressing and letting go of negativity or stagnant energy that is stored within, often things we may not even realize are holding us back from healing and progressing forward.

The best way to start using dance in healing is simply to turn on music and let your body move organically. Use music with a beat that calls to you – it can be rock, tribal music, or any other type of music. My one suggestion is NOT to use music that is negative or uses lyrics about relationship or lost love. You want positive music that makes not only your body, but also your spirit, feel good and want to move. You can close your eyes and feel the beat for a bit, then just let your body take over.

When dancing do not think about whether you are doing it “right” or “well,” because with dance there is no right way to move when it comes to healing – your body will guide you to move organically in ways that feel good. The way you move to the music one time may have nothing to do with the way you do the next…and that is perfect.

Dance helped me heal from divorce in a BIG way – it was such a physical and emotional release that after a session I would often start laughing from pure joy. I still incorporate it in my life often. There is pure joy in the movement and release…try it and let me know how it feels for you!