Finding Connection and Joy in the Loneliness Epidemic
Loneliness is a widespread issue that many people in the United States are facing today. The loneliness epidemic has been on the rise, especially with the challenges brought about by the global pandemic [1][2][3]. In fact, the Surgeon General of the United States recently released a study where he stated that "[g]iven the profound consequences of loneliness and isolation, we have an opportunity, and an obligation, to make the same investments in addressing social connection that we have made in addressing tobacco use, obesity, and the addiction crisis” [9]. Essentially, what the Surgeon General is saying is that loneliness isn't just a fleeting feeling; it can have a profound, lasting impact on our mental and physical well-being [7].
While the pandemic forced us into isolation, leading to increased feelings of loneliness and disconnection [2][3], the good news is that we're not alone in feeling alone. In fact, rates of loneliness have doubled in the United States over the past 50 years [4]. Many experts, like the Surgeon General, say it’s time to tackle this issue head on, and we agree! At Ballroom College we feel privileged to live and breath dance knowing it can be a game-changer in our fight against loneliness.
Imagine stepping into a vibrant dance studio or joining a community dance class. As the music starts playing, you're transported to a world where loneliness takes a backseat, and connection takes center stage. In order to dance, you have to be present with others, both physically and mentally. In order for partner dance to work, you must have someone to dance with and you have to connect to that partner. With that said, it seems self-evident that dance can alleviate loneliness and bring us closer together. Here are a few specific ways we see dance helping all of us post-pandemic:
A Universal Language:
Dance is a language that transcends words. It allows us to communicate and express ourselves without the need for verbal communication [1]. In the realm of dance, we can connect with others on a deeper level, sharing emotions, stories, and experiences through movement.
Joining a Supportive Community:
When you join a dance class or become part of a dance community, you're not just learning the steps; you're entering a supportive and inclusive space [8]. Dance brings people together from all walks of life, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie. The connections you forge on the dance floor can extend beyond the studio walls.
Expressive Outlet:
Loneliness often comes with a whirlwind of emotions. Dance provides a creative and expressive outlet for releasing and channeling those emotions [6]. Whether it's through fluid movements or powerful leaps, dance allows us to express ourselves fully, letting go of pent-up feelings and finding emotional release.
Shared Experiences:
In a dance class or performance, you're part of something bigger than yourself. The shared experience of dancing in synchrony with others creates a profound sense of connection [1]. You'll find yourself immersed in a collective energy, united by a common passion for movement and music.
Mindful Movement:
Dance requires us to be present in the moment, fully engaged with our bodies and the music [6]. As we become more mindful of our movements, we develop a deeper connection with ourselves. This self-awareness can extend to our interactions with others, allowing us to form more authentic connections.
Celebrating Individuality:
In the world of dance, each person's unique style and expression are celebrated. There's no judgment, only appreciation for the individuality that each dancer brings to the floor [8]. Embracing our uniqueness fosters self-acceptance and empowers us to connect with others from a place of authenticity.
In a world where loneliness seems to be on the rise, dance offers a powerful remedy. It brings people together, creating a sense of connection, joy, and belonging. So let's lace up our dance shoes, find a local dance class, or create a dance party in our living rooms. Let's use the universal language of dance to alleviate loneliness, forge meaningful connections, and dance our way towards a happier, more connected world.
Sources
[1] https://www.npr.org/2023/05/02/1173418268/loneliness-connection-mental-health-dementia-surgeon-general
[2] https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/communications-matter/202109/the-pandemic-epidemic-loneliness
[3] https://www.harvardmagazine.com/2021/01/feature-the-loneliness-pandemic
[4] https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/modern-mentality/201807/what-you-need-know-about-the-loneliness-epidemic
[5] https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/our-new-discontents/202111/the-epidemic-loneliness
[6] https://evidencebasedliving.human.cornell.edu/blog/the-epidemic-of-loneliness-and-what-we-can-do-about-it/
[7] https://www.unsw.edu.au/news/2022/11/loneliness--unpacking-the-silent-epidemic-damaging-our-health
[8] https://sitn.hms.harvard.edu/flash/2018/loneliness-an-epidemic/
[9] https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf
