A Biodanza - also known as psychodance - is a modality that focuses on promoting well-being by means of dance movements based on people's experiences. Thus, the practice combines dance and psychology and has been used to complement the treatment of motor disability, anorexia, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and fibromyalgia, among other diseases.

How it came about

The technique was founded in the 1960s by psychologist Rolando Toro Araneda. From the beginning, the power of dance and music was valued, as the psychologist relied on scientific research on the neurovegetative responses to certain movements.

According to studies, Biodanza can alleviate pathologies such as mental disorders, diabetes and hypertension, especially in elderly people. Furthermore, the method focuses on five human potentials, which are:

• Vitality: renewal of energy;
• Sexuality: progressive and natural development of contact;
• Creativity: renewal and a sense of rebirth;
• Affectivity: renewal and stimulation of emotions;
• Transcendence: integration between body and soul.

How the classes work

The classes are usually in groups, with the participation of at least 8 people. This way, the activities are divided into a verbal part and a movement-dance part, with an average duration of two hours a week. The recommendation from the specialists is that the frequency be maintained, until the experiences are incorporated and the changes achieved are consolidated.

In this sense, in the first few lessons it is possible to feel differences in the way you communicate with yourself and with others.

Benefits

Biodanza has several benefits, which may include:

• Renewal of energies;
• It stimulates emotions and creativity;
• It helps to relax;
• It decreases anxiety and stress;
• Increased pleasure in living;
• Improves the quality of sleep;
• It promotes self-knowledge;

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