Well-being is achieved when an individual is balanced and healthy physically, emotionally, spiritually, psychologically, and intellectually. There are many ways to nurture well-being, such as exercise, yoga, dance, music, sports, and other practices.
Among these, dance stands out as a unique art form. In Sanskrit, dance is described as “Nrutyam,” “Nattyam,” and “Nruttam.” Each carries a distinct meaning:
Nattyam: A story-based dance performance involving music, expressions, and characteristics. (Example: classical storytelling dances)
Nruttam: A form focusing mainly on footwork and hand gestures.
Nrutyam: A blend of Bhava (emotions, moods, or states of mind) and Rasa (the experience evoked in the audience through expressions and performance). This combines gestures, footwork, emotions, and expressions into a holistic experience.
A famous Sanskrit proverb beautifully explains the flow of expression in dance:
“यतो हस्तस्ततो दृष्टि, यतो दृष्टिस्ततो मनः।
यतो मनस्ततो भावः, यतो भावस्ततो रसः॥”
Meaning:
Where the hands are, there go the eyes.
Where the eyes are, there goes the mind.
Where the mind goes, emotions arise.
Where emotions arise, aesthetic experience (rasa) is created.
This shows how thoughts, feelings, and expressions in dance influence not just the performer but also the audience, creating joy, reflection, and connection.
Dance is more than physical movement; it engages the body, mind, and emotions together. Every part of the body—hands, legs, eyes, face, and even breath—becomes involved, stimulating internal organs while expressing emotions. Movements such as gestures, rotations, and jumps refresh the body and release psychological burdens.
While people often turn to relaxation techniques to reduce stress or anxiety, dance naturally integrates relaxation with joy and creativity. Practicing dance in the morning or evening helps individuals feel energetic, enthusiastic, and emotionally balanced.
Because of these benefits, dance today is recognized not only as a passion and performance art but also as a therapeutic practice for human well-being.
As we know, practices like yoga, workouts, exercises, and morning walks are widely recognized for promoting human well-being. Similarly, dance also contributes to well-being, with the added advantage of being accompanied by music and rhythm, which provides extra joy and emotional release.
Here are some examples of how dance is integrated into culture and well-being across India:
Andhra Pradesh: The famous folk dance Kollatam (stick dance), often performed by groups of women during festivals, occasions, and cultural events.
Gujarat: The energetic Garba dance, performed by both men and women, especially during the festival of Navaratri.
Telangana: During the Bathukamma festival, women perform traditional dances as a part of celebrations.
Maharashtra: The Koli dance, performed by fishing communities, reflects their lifestyle and brings collective joy.
Ritual Dances: In some traditions, dance is even performed as part of death rituals, symbolizing spiritual connection and collective expression.
Dance has a unique recognition in society—not only as a cultural or ritual practice but also as a medium that enhances individual well-being.
It also has a profound effect on viewers. For example, legendary performer Michael Jackson popularized Western dance forms worldwide, influencing millions emotionally and socially.
Importantly, there are also scientific reasons behind the benefits of dance—such as stress reduction, release of happy hormones, improved memory, and enhanced social bonding—which make it a powerful tool for holistic well-being.
According to Hindu scriptures, the origin of dance is attributed to Lord Shiva.
When Shiva dances, it is called Tandava—a powerful, energetic dance.
When Goddess Parvati dances, it is called Lasya—a graceful, soft form.
The iconic Nataraja idol represents Shiva as the cosmic dancer, symbolizing creation, preservation, and destruction through rhythm and movement.
Different forms of Tandava include:
India also has rich classical dance traditions, such as Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Kathak, and many others. Alongside, modern forms like Western dance, Zumba, and freestyle are also embraced worldwide.
Dance is a holistic path to well-being, combining physical, psychological, and emotional benefits.
Stay tuned for the second part, where we will delve into the scientific reasons behind dance and provide a brief overview of how classical dance is used for well-being.
