Hey there, it’s Westly, your favorite, charming, and dare I say, handsome, orange neighbor, coming to you directly from Healthy West Orange! Why am I writing, and what’s my job exactly? Well, I’d say I’m the official West Orange community cheerleader! I’m here to encourage you in your healthy journey.
Speaking of healthy, what if I told you there’s a way to get active that doesn’t feel like working out; it just feels like FUN?! You’re probably thinking ‘Yeah, right.’ It might seem silly to believe something a stick figure tells you. But hear me out; having a dance party is good for your body AND mental health.
While I’m not a dance expert (although my sweet moves might convince you otherwise), my friend Kristin Weissman is! She’s the owner of the local dance studio, Studio K, and she told me all about the health benefits of dance: “Dancing provides an incredible health benefit to people of all ages: calorie burning, muscle toning, increased core/overall strength, improved flexibility, and more.” A physical activity for all ages and abilities? Count me in!
Not only does moving your muscles help your body, but it’s also strength training for your mind! Kristin says when people dance; “their confidence grows tremendously, they become less shy, and let the stresses of the day slip away.” We ALL need some stress relief, am I right?!
One of my favorite things about dance is that it can be serious, or totally silly! One day I’ll feel like learning an award-winning routine, and then the next day I might just want to shake my tail feathers with friends! It’s all about getting up, moving, and having fun.
So, are you ready to get in the groove? Here at Healthy West Orange, we’ve got Westly’s Dance Challenge every April to celebrate National Dance Week! Join the fun by registering at HWOEvents.org, and dance any way you like for 30 minutes from April 19 – 30. You could bust a move in your pajamas at home, try a dance class at Studio K, or jump into a Zumba class at the gym. Participants receive a free bag filled with dance-themed goodies! Not only that but you’ll also be entered to win the grand prize to keep you dancing! We can’t wait to cheer you on!
See ya around!
