Children are more receptive to the process of learning during their growing years. When I decided to make dance my career, my primary aim was to set up a dance academy that furthers Dance as Education. The goal from then on has been to provide quality dance education through a well-structured syllabus, inculcating correct technique and providing wholesome training to children of all ages.

Using dance as a medium of physical activity and creative medium, this programme aims at channelising their energy in a resourceful manner. This is where the art of dance and the performing arts help children develop skills, knowledge and understanding that goes beyond the classroom. The expert faculty is personally trained by me and specializes in teaching children of all age groups, understanding their individual requirements and ensuring that they learn in a fun and friendly environment.

How dance helps in boosting their stamina

Dance helps improve overall fitness, endurance, muscle toning and strengthening. It involves cardio vascular/ aerobic fitness, core and strength training and stretches for flexibility. Different styles of dance are also different forms of work out. While ballet works completely on inner strength, balance and posture, Hip Hop / Bboying have exercises that require stronger arms and legs. Even Indian Classical Dance forms are strenuous work outs for the quadriceps with all the squats. When I teach students the Shiamak Style of contemporary, my work out includes a combination of plies, abdominal exercises and stretches. Dance requires a lot of stamina which ensures the body is agile and light.

How can dance increase their concentration level

Parents often tell us that their children show an improvement in their academics because of the dance classes. The reason behind this is primarily that their focus increases as they have something to look forward to, they get to do what they like and enjoy. Also, many students who are introverts get a platform to express themselves and their personality develop through these classes. Not only to they learn dance, engage in a physical activity but also experience something that highlights their spirit.

How can dance prove to be a replacement to digital practices

In times where kids are constantly on their mobile devices, dance is a great hobby where they learn, enjoy and work out at the same time. Each class targets towards skillful progression to improve fitness levels, confidence, focus, concentration, team spirit, positive thinking, and discipline, all round development, posture and body language. They are encouraged to learn in a healthy environment where no one is judged. My motto has always been “Have Feet. Will Dance.”, therefore each student is given equal attention and the entire group grows together.

Why dance is more fun and beneficial and helps in studies

Music in itself is therapeutic. Dance is a physical interpretation of what the music says. It is a great way to release energy, shed inhibitions and let your emotions out. When you dance you sweat, and you release ‘feel good’ endorphins that make you happy. Good music, good dancing is a great way to be in a happy state of mind. The teaching pattern is interactive and communicative ensuring that the learning process is fun and stress free.

Dance is a holistic activity for the mind, body and the soul. It aligns all these, and the student is then more aware of their strength and weaknesses giving them an opportunity to identify them and work on them. This in turn, gives them to analyze their shortcomings in studies as well, and they are able to find solutions to problems that may not be merely aptitude based but may also have a mental block that dance helps release.

(The writer is a well known artistic director and choreographer)