You could dance your way out of a panic attack

Dancing can be a complete “stress buster”, more so, a complete movement of the full body which includes “techniques, ideas or visualizations of the mind”, she says.

Self-diagnosis has caused many to develop anxiety and stress. (Source: Freepik)

Engaging in intense physical activities like dancing is beneficial as a coping mechanism for managing panic attacks, explains Dr Neatu Narang, Professor and Senior Consultant at Amrita Hospital Faridabad. “Dancing releases endorphins, which are hormones that promote feelings of happiness and reduce stress levels.”

In addition to that, dancing helps in improving the awareness of one’s body and its movements, aiding in grounding one during a panic attack. What does grounding yourself through dance mean? Dr. Neatu explains how dancing can be a significant tool in helping an individual to be mindful in the present moment through physical sensations. This also helps in “reducing feelings of dissociation.”

An art form and practice intricately involved with rhythm and breath control, it accentuates the healing effects of deep breathing- a counteract to, Dr. Neatu states, to hyperventilation which is common during panic attacks.

The endorphins which are released during physical activity can act as “natural painkillers”  as well as “mood elevators”. In a world buzzing with commotion, exercise provides a “much-needed distraction” from anxious thoughts and worries, allowing people to focus on physical movements instead.

Hearing from a dancer herself

Dr. Parul Purohit Vats, Dean of School of performing arts, World University of Design comments on how dance has helped her and her students in her years of experience. Stressing on how Indian classical dance has helped improved her mental health and anxiety, she states how her dance form, through its rhythmic grace and expressive hand gestures has provided not only immediate relief, but also lasting benefits.

“Indian classical dance anchors individuals in the present, offering spiritual grounding and a harmonious balance of control and focus, which can be particularly beneficial during panic attacks”. Students practicing Indian classical dance experience improved mental health and find it a highly effective coping mechanism for panic attacks, she adds.

“Hasta mudras” are intricate hand gestures used in Indian classical dance, not only to provide a visual narrative element in storytelling, but also, she adds, to “foster concentration and mindfulness”, thus helping reduce anxiety and manage panic attacks.

Integrating dance into one’s routine provides immediate and long-term mental health benefits, effectively managing stress and anxiety. Dance is seen as the art of finding balance within chaos, turning every step into a path toward inner peace and mental stability, crucial for those struggling with panic attacks.

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