The Real Secret to Healthy Aging: Benefits of Dance

As you age, your muscle mass and bone density decrease, causing you to lose strength and experience more body pain. It is only natural that you may feel the need to limit your activity. Although you can no longer engage in most of the recreational activities that young people enjoy, you can still take part in dancing. If you are hesitant about taking dance lessons because you do not know what to wear, don’t worry, there is always a type of dancewear that will not only fit your chosen dance genre but will also provide you with comfort and convenience.

Dancing is definitely beneficial for older people. In fact, the benefits of dancing on seniors are plentiful and they range from improved cardiovascular fitness to enhanced flexibility.

Improved Cardiovascular Fitness

As the body ages, it may deteriorate because of aging body responses. This means that seniors will not be able to keep pace with the young when it comes to the more rigorous forms of dancing like aerobics. Dancing, on the other hand, is low-impact so it won’t strain your aging muscles much. With that, seniors can dance on a regular basis thereby substituting any other forms of exercise. Over time, this would result in stronger heart muscles. The most popular form of dancing for the purposes of improving your cardiovascular muscles is ballroom.

Increased Balance, Control and Flexibility

It is normal for older people to easily lose their balance, control and flexibility as a result of aging. But what is not normal is not trying to do anything to try and control your body’s deterioration. You need to be more careful because losing your balance could cause serious injuries. Loosening up those stiff muscles can be done through dancing. Other than that, you need to choose the right dancing clothes for you to support your body as you move.

Increased Bone Mass

Dancing has been shown to increase the bone mass as effectively as milk does. So instead of spending a sedentary lifestyle, go and grab a pair of dance shoes and try dancing. Ask an instructor on what genre suits you best so as not to jeopardize your health.

Toned Muscles

The body’s metabolic rate slows down with old age. That is why you will notice that fat seems to build up faster even if you eat less. The most efficient way to tone and strengthen your muscles is to engage in physical exercises.  However, considering your body’s lower physical capabilities and perhaps your lack of enthusiasm for the more rigorous exercises that the youth seem to prefer, take out those dancing shoes and dance.

Improved Social Outlook

Dancing is a form of non-verbal communication but it is a highly effective method of expressing emotions. Studies show that dancers are more expressive than their non-dancer peers. Especially for senior citizens who may feel isolated and alone because of children growing up and having their own family, you need a positive outlet for your emotions. So go ahead and try expressing yourself through dance. By joining a dance class, you get to feel the company of other dancers and won’t feel so alone anymore.

For a great selection of dance clothing and dance costume accessories that fit your dance needs, check out www.alycedancewear.com.

Frequent Dancing Stimulates Intelligence and Helps Reduce Dementia

Studies have shown that there are numerous health benefits associated with dancing including increased serotonin level, reduced stress and better cardiovascular health. More recently, it has been found that dancing can make one smarter. This is because dancing helps stimulate the mind and prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. For seniors, dancing even helps increase cognitive perception. With these new findings, dance wear stores are expected to experience a huge increase in the sales of adult dancing clothes.

The study on the relationship between smartness and dancing was conducted by the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City. However, it was suggested that only frequent dancing appears to protect you from dementia. Here are the statistics to show as proof:

• Frequent dancing reduces the risk for dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease by as much as 76%
• Completing crossword puzzles 3-4 times a week reduces risks by 47%
• Reading helps reduce the risks by 35%
• Bicycling, playing golf and swimming do not help in reducing the risks of dementia

Notice that two of the three mentioned above have something to do with much brain activity brought about by concentrating on a given task. But they are no match to frequent dancing that uses physical and mental capabilities; thus, resulting in the brain rewiring itself more effectively.

What is the relationship between dancing and old age?

As you grow older, your brain cells weaken and that’s manifested by seniors’ ability to remember names and dates. Hence, seniors resort to parallel thinking, or more creative ways to remember what they need to remember. The key, according to the study, is to remain immersed in activities that require split-second decisions. Think about it, when you’re doing sports, you’re doing it based on your experience and what your coach told you during training. But when you’re dancing, especially modern dancing, when you are left free to move according to your emotions, you are making split-second decisions almost all the time.

However, you will not obtain the mental benefits unless you dance regularly. Hence, despite the fact that dancing is a tedious activity that requires a strong physical foundation, many older people were motivated to take up dancing.

Ballet is a specific form of dance that is designed for all ages. Since it involves a wide range of movements, wearing appropriate dance apparel and comfortable ballet dancing shoes is crucial to preventing injury.

Social dance is another dance form that stimulates intelligence. When social dancing, the females get the most benefits because they interpret their partner’s movements and that requires a lot of thinking and split decision-making. And if you want to optimize every dance class and wear your dance attire longer, try dancing with different dance partners. But for men who oftentimes lead in these freestyle social dancing, you can also get the same cognitive benefits by occasionally adjusting your dancing to fit your partner’s mood.

The entire study is telling you to dance frequently and that means dancing as often as three to four times a week. If you are not doing anything, you could spend some of your pension for dance classes and in investing in durable dance costume accessories that you can use in your every dance class.

If you are planning to enroll in dance lessons and are looking for a great selection of dancewear and accessories, check out www.alycedancewear.com.

Dance Bags : Must Have for Dancers

Every time dancers go to performances or rehearsals, they usually carry dance bags to carry their dance supplies. Ordinary bags usually cut it, but it’s always recommended to have a separate bag for the dancer’s gear. This way dance clothing and shoes are easily sorted from other clothes before and after a trip to the studio. Many beginning dancers use old duffel bags, or make their own, but there are also plenty of available dance bags in the market to choose from. There are bags designed to suit a dancer’s personality and needs. Child dancers in particular need compact and custom-designed luggage.

For young ballerinas and modern jazz artist, there’s the Monkey Print Zipper Dance Bag for storing tights, leotards, skirts, towels, and shoes. The bag comes in a lovely pink color with an adorable monkey ballerina print. The Monkey Print Zipper Dance Bag is compact and lightweight (.50 lbs) and perfect for children who want a cute bag to carry to the studios. The bag is well constructed, with a microfiber exterior and a smooth satin finish. Its interior is made of nylon and the bag is lined fully inside.

For young dancers who may not go for the sporty look of the Monkey Print Zipper Dance Bag, here’s the Dance Star Tote Bag. This soft pink tote is emblazoned with the word “Dance” dotted with some rhinestones. Also fully lined, this tote bag has sturdy strap and a durable zipper. Dancers may find two inside pockets for separating smaller accessories from dance shoes and wardrobe. Carry this stylish bag to practice or to a recital. Because of its versatile style, this tote bag can even be used for picnics and excursions.

The quirkier but more mature personality, the Zebra Dance Tote is a must have. Its hot pink color and zebra print is eye-catching without seeming garish. Older ballet and jazz dancers can rock this fashion find that also comes with a tutu and pink bow when purchased.

A companion style to the Zebra Dance Tote is the Quilted Zebra Duffel. This dance bag is accented with a zebra print bow and features an adjustable strap. The inside is fully lined and the exterior has the comfy quilted finish. The Quilted Zebra Duffel Bag has a top zipper and a pair of side pockets. A bag that can be used for storing any type of dance accessories, this huggable duffel comes in hot pink.

For dancers who want matching bags of different colors, the Glitter Hearts Dance Bag is the right pick. Available in pink and baby blue, these heart-speckled roll bags features a zip top and adjustable straps. At 10 and half inches by 5 and a half, it is roomy enough for all basic dance clothing, but also compact and can easily be stored.

For young male dancer’s who want a more neutral choice in color is the Trendsetter Sling Bag. Featuring a graffiti design, this sling has drawstring closure and is about 12.5 x 17.5 inches, big and reliable for carrying sweat soaked towels and dance pants.

To learn more about the sizes and affordable prices of this stylish crop of dance bags, visit: www.alycedancewear.com.

The Many Faces of Belly Dance Performance Wear

Of all the types of dance, the belly dancing is the most colorful because of the many possible costumes that you can wear for this dance. The variety in the dance clothing could be attributed to the fact that belly dancing has many origins, and each of these origins have their own set of guiding principles when it comes to the dance style and the kind of dance clothes to wear. So if you are picking a style for your belly dancing clothes, here are some possibilities to choose from:

Belly Dancing in Egypt
If you are belly dancing in Egypt or performing in front of a crowd of Egypt origin, you need to pick out dancewear that covers the midriff or one that does not display too much skin. This is because since the 1950s, it has been made illegal for belly dancers to wear costumes that are too revealing. So it would be best to wear a long but figure-hugging one-piece gown of lycra. Of course, there would be some cut-outs involved but they should be filled with sheer, flesh-colored fabric.

You also need a belt or any additional embellishment that is directly embroidered on your skin if you were to choose a dance performance wear that has a separate bra and skirt. A body stocking must also be worn to cover the midsection and still pass the rather strict dance clothing rules of Egypt.

Belly Dancing in America
Although belly dancing originated in the Middle East, it is widely performed by American dancers today. Classic dance costume accessories worn by American ballet dancers include a headband with a fringe, bra that is decorated with coins and other metalwork and sheer harem pants or skirt. The idea is to create a soft tinkling sound as they move and also to create a mysterious illusion with their costume that enhances the effect of the dance.

Sometimes, full-length galabeyah or beledi dress is worn. But in almost all cases, belly dance supplies are imported from Turkey or Egypt. The only exception to this generalization is the American tribal style dancers, who create their own costumes by mix and matching. For instance, they use large pants and then cover them with one or more skirts and belts. Then they use a coin bra and topped with flowers, metal headdresses and other folkloric-inspired dance costume accessories.

Belly Dancing in Turkey
Turkey belly dancers wear bedleh style costumes. It is a stripper-like costume that was made popular in the 80s and the 90s characterized by skirts that display both legs up to the hip and bras with plunging bras. If you look at the Turkish-inspired belly dance costumes, you would easily see where the playful and flirty attributes of the dance came from.

Belly Dancing in Lebanon
Dance apparel for belly dancing in Lebanon is quite confusing. The skirts tend to be skimpier and there is no prohibition with regard to the use of more revealing costumes but dancers wear veils to cover their faces and hair. And instead of dancing barefoot, Lebanon belly dancers use high heels as their dance shoes.

Now, you have an idea of how belly dancers dress up. It’s now time for you to decide which culture will inspire you in your choice of dance attire?

Once you’ve made up your mind, see us at www.alycedancewear.com.

Review: Dance Bottoms and Tops

When it comes to dance, freedom of movement is of utmost importance. That’s why, no matter what level of skill a dancer is in, she or he needs proper dance attire that is comfortable and easy to perform in.  Whether your dance is ballet, modern jazz, contemporary, or hip-hop, the quality of your dancing also depends on the durability and design of your dance clothing. In terms of style and comfort, this selection of dance tops and bottoms are a great addition to your collection, whether you’re a beginner or a professional.

For the ballet dancer who wants a simple and comfortable skirt for rehearsals and performances, the Classic Georgette wrap skirt is a wonderful choice. This dance skirt comes in pink and black and has a slightly longer backside. Imagine yourself doing turns and positions in this simple but elegant piece of dance attire.

A fun and lovely Mesh Dance Skirt with Shorts can be the perfect dance wear for Latin, modern, hip hop, or contemporary dance performances. You can choose from lime green and hot pink and enjoy the comfort and snug fit of the shorts that comes with the mesh skirt. It even has a terrifically comfortable elastic waistband for a secure fit and hold. Whether you’re doing pas de bourres, pirouettes, or pliés, this mesh dance skirt guarantees maximum ease of movement during your rehearsal or performance.

On stage, this Graffiti Print Dance Booty Shorts from Funky Diva is an eye catching dance bottom to wear. Made of spandex and polyester, these snug dance shorts will surely bring spice to your dance routine. You can use it for hip-hop or contemporary dance numbers that require leaps and leg moves.

For young female dancers who want a little more style, their groove will love this Reversible Halter Crop Dance Top. This stylish and functional top comes in small, medium and large sizes to accommodate dancers of different shapes and sizes. You can simply tie it to your neck and back for a comfortable hold and fit. If you feel like wearing a bright festive color, the pink side is a great choice. For a more somber performance, you can simply reverse the top and wear the polka dot print. The Reversible Halter Crop Dance Top is perfect for hip-hop and contemporary routines and can even be used for modern ballet and jazz.

Another addition to your dance shorts collection is the Metallic Booty Short. This dance short comes in Electric Raspberry, Silver, Gold, and ElectricTurquoise. Leap and twirl on the dance stage while your bright patterned shorts enhance your stage presence. This dance short can also be worn under any type of skirt for support.

Dancers who want to appeal “wilder” on stage will find much to love in these Metallic Animal Print Booty Shorts. Coming in Black/Gold, Black/Silver, and Black/Sizzling Magenta, this booty short is made of spandex and nylon and has a 1 inch waistband that features a premium 4-way stretch metallic.

For more dance attire and accessories, visit our superb collection at: www.alycedancewear.com.

Women Learn About Heart Disease Prevention Through Dance

Lead by head dancer Tammi Galloway, the Benefits Spirit of Women Day of Dance introduced women to an exciting way to burn calories and stay away from hart disease: through dancing. Women donned their most comfortable dancing clothes and shimmied their way toward knowledge and illness prevention.

Galloway stressed how belly dancing, a form of dance that has roots in Persia and and much of the East, can be a truly unique and fun alternative to exercising. She began the program by sending five belly dancers to demonstrate to the audience who were in their best dance attire that day.

Spirit of Women and outreach coordinator for the community, Lacey Gallagher couldn’t agree more. She too believes that dancing is good for the heart and the figure.

A yearly event that takes place in different areas all over the country, the Day of Dance program aims to educate women about the risk of cardiovascular disease.  Gallagher hopes that through an engaging and artistic activity such as dance, they are able to reach out to women who need more information about their cardiovascular health.

Aside from belly dancing, women who participated during the Day of Dance were introduced to Pilates and Zumba and enjoyed a flash mob presentation to the tune of Michael Jackson’s megahit “Thriller.”

A credited laughter yoga instructor, Martha Jones delivered a talk and presentation about the transformative force of laughter, also called “joyology,” which according to Jones does wonders for the heart.

Jones believed that getting a good laugh, whether or not intentional, once every day can be good for one’s well being. The audience in response gave a hearty laugh.

There were also other related activities headed by the Montana State University who sent nursing students to offer body mass index and blood pressure checks during Day of Dance. Many of the participants did not only rely on their dance accessories and moves but also got a health checkup. Both the checkups are known to be significant in one’s cardiovascular wellness.

For those who did not bring their dance gear, there were booths that gave out information about stress and diabetes and sleep and cholesterol.

There were booths that focused on the importance of nutrition and proper diet, where interns stressed the important of controlling portions during meals to maintain a healthy weight.

Participants in turn learned about how we consume certain food twice as much compared to people’s diet 20 years ago. Back in the way, a plate of spaghetti only contained 500 calories, compared to the 1,025-calorie serving we have today. The bucket of popcorn we take to the cinemas has 630 calories.

Women are the target participants because many still believe that heart disease affect mostly men. This is only one of the myths that Day of Dance wants to eliminate, according to Gallagher, who added that heart diseases do not choose its target across the age brackets.

Dance of Dance got many women to think more about their cardiovascular health and add dancing to their daily routines.

Whatever dance you’re into, you need quality dance gear. Visit: www.alycedancewear.com for a selection of tights, leotards, dance skirts, dance shoes and many more.

Enter Martha Graham Dance Co.’s Online Contest

Seeking the answer to seemingly simple questions, “What are you thinking?” or  “What are you feeling?” the Martha Graham Dance Company urges dance enthusiasts to join the online contest, “On the Couch: An Inner Monologue.” The contests features two members of the company in dance wear online.

The dance company’s website already posted two videos showing a man and a woman respectively, portraying patients undergoing therapy. These two videos serve as a jump off point for aspiring participants who may or may not ever have donned dance wear for kids when they were young.

Entrants are expected to make a video, or psychodrama, showing their emotional reaction to the said dance videos. The two performers in dancer wear are performing through a range of emotions that contestants must respond to in text or dialogue on video.

After downloading each of the clips running up to three minutes, participants should add text, dialogue or voiceover interpreting the dancer’s feelings and thoughts. The text or caption should begin with the sentence prompt, “Doctor, it’s happening again.”

Tadej Brdnik, principal dancer at the Martha Graham Dance Company, says that the contestants’ text input can be either deeply personal or as broad as topics such as world war. Brdnik who directs the contest is one of the performers in the videos.  Contestants must also incorporate anywhere in the video the quote, “Movement never lies,” words which came from Martha Graham herself.

The contest encourages not only therapy but also entices dormant dance lovers to slip into their dance tops, dancers leg warmers, or whatever they’re comfortable in and finally take up dancing. The Martha Graham Company hopes that the interactive videos will draw new audience to their performances.

Janet Eilber, the company’s artistic director and the force behind “On the Couch: An Inner Monologue,” describes the company as a leader in steering the modern dance world in finding new ways to reach out to new audiences.

“On the Couch” is considered a playful addition to the company theme this season called “Inner Landscape,” which portrays the American choreographer exploring the human psyche and its permutations in a variety of movement and dance.

The winning entry will be featured in one of the company’s performances in New Year in March. A $500 cash prize will also be awarded. Second place and third place winner will also win the privilege of having their works shown during the company’s performances, along with $300 and $200 cash prizes respectively.

Deadline for submitting entries is Feb. 15.

The judging panel will be composed of experts in the fields of music, creative writing, psychology, media and dance.

Brdnik says that the competition is a sort of reverse rehearsal process, as they begin with dance and build the interior lives of the characters afterward. He also hopes Graham’s enduring influence in all over the world is presented through the contest in an engaging, novel way.

The oldest dance company in the world, the company is a part of the Martha Graham Center for Contemporary Dance founded in 1926 by Martha Graham. Graham died in 1991.

For your dance wear solution needs, visit www.alycedancewear.com.