Dance therapy

Dance therapy, practiced for thousands of years in various ancient societies, offers a powerful approach to improving our mental and physical health. This therapeutic method is not a mere passing trend — scientific studies confirm its many benefits. For example, a six-week dance therapy program can considerably improve vitality and reduce fatigue in cancer patients.

Today recognized worldwide, dance therapy has become structured notably thanks to the founding of the American Dance Therapy Association in 1966, now bringing together practitioners in more than forty countries. Dance-therapy exercises make it possible to explore and release repressed emotions, while developing a better awareness of the body. In fact, a study of adolescent girls suffering from mild depression showed that a 12-week program favorably modulated serotonin and dopamine levels, thus reducing their psychological distress.

In this article, we will explore the origins of this age-old practice, its fundamental principles, its benefits for our well-being, as well as the typical course of a session. Whether you are looking to reduce your stress, strengthen your self-image, or simply explore a new path to well-being, dance therapy could offer you valuable tools.

Origins and evolution of dance therapy

The ritual and cultural roots of movement

Since the dawn of humanity, dance has established itself as a universal language for expressing the ineffable. The earliest known traces date back to the Paleolithic, notably in the "Cave of the Three Brothers" in Ariège. In all ancient civilizations, dance was intrinsically linked to healing rituals, religious ceremonies, and community celebrations. These rhythmic movements were used to invoke deities, celebrate the cycles of life, or drive out ailments of the body and mind.

However, this therapeutic function was partially lost in the West with the advent of Christian religions in the Middle Ages, then of Cartesianism in the 17th century. The body, now considered an entity separate from the mind, lost its sacred dimension in favor of a more mechanistic view.

The modern emergence in the 20th century

It was at the beginning of the 20th century that a true renaissance took place, led by innovative dancers such as Isadora Duncan. She, often described as the "mother of modern dance," freed the body from the rigid constraints of classical ballet. In her wake, other pioneers such as Mary Wigman revolutionized dance by developing improvisation and the free use of the body as a vehicle for emotional expression.

At the same time, theorist Rudolf Laban developed between 1910 and 1950 a complete system of movement analysis, first in Germany and then in England. His work on human kinetics highlighted the deep connection between the dynamic components of movement and the expression of personality.

Three main centers then emerged:

• On the east coast of the United States around Marian Chace in the 1940s

• On the west coast with Trudi Schoop and Mary Whitehouse in the 1950s

• In Europe, with Rudolf Laban's work in England

The role of Marion Chace and the ADTA

Marion Chace, born in 1896 in Providence, began her career as a dancer after studying at the Denishawn School in New York in 1923. She then opened her own school in Washington, where, observing her students, she understood that some were looking for much more than technical lessons.

In 1942, she reached a decisive milestone when she was invited to work at St. Elizabeth Psychiatric Hospital in Washington, where those traumatized by the Second World War poured in. It was there that she developed a program titled "Dance for Communication," laying the foundations of what would become dance therapy.

Her encounter with psychiatrist Frieda Fromm-Reichmann further enriched her approach. For Chace, bodily tensions reflect psychic traumas, and movement becomes a symbol of the unconscious. Her conviction that dance could be therapeutic ultimately led her to found the American Dance Therapy Association (ADTA) in 1966, of which she became the first president, thus institutionalizing this discipline, which now extends to more than forty countries.

The main principles of dance therapy

At the heart of dance therapy are fundamental principles that make this practice much more than a simple physical activity. I invite you to discover these essential pillars that structure this unique therapeutic approach.

Emotional expression through movement

Dance therapy is based on a simple but powerful idea: movement is the bodily expression of our psychological, emotional, intellectual, and relational life. By dancing, we can express emotions that are often difficult to verbalize — sadness, anger, joy, or fear. This form of nonverbal expression is particularly valuable for those who struggle to put their feelings into words.

Studies also reveal that the body communicates intense emotions more accurately than the face alone. Indeed, participants recognize emotions better when they observe the body rather than only facial expressions.

The connection between body and mind

Dance therapy is based on the deep interconnection between body and mind. Contrary to the Cartesian view that separates them, this approach considers that "all activities of the brain are accompanied and expressed by movement." Moreover, every gesture thus becomes an opportunity to explore our emotional intimacy, sometimes revealing buried feelings.

The simple act of moving activates the brain's reward system, releasing neurotransmitters such as dopamine, often called the "happiness hormone."

The importance of creativity and improvisation

In this practice, the goal is neither technical performance nor aesthetics. It is the creative process itself that becomes the basis for psychological development. Improvisation, in particular, is regularly used "as a process of the emergence of an embodied self, as a liberation of a life drive."

The role of the group and sharing

Although dance therapy can be practiced individually, the group dimension brings additional richness. By sharing experiences in a supportive setting, participants forge bonds that strengthen confidence and self-esteem.

The group acts as a "safety net" offering comfort and encouragement when an individual feels overwhelmed by emotions. This social dynamic creates a sense of belonging essential to the therapeutic process.

Integrating feelings after the session

A dance therapy session does not end with movement. It generally includes a time for verbalization and sharing that makes it possible to integrate the experience. This precious moment helps to "look at what led to this situation" and transform difficulties into creative potential.

Reflection on the experience thus contributes to a better understanding of oneself and promotes personal growth.

What are the benefits for well-being?

The benefits of dance therapy extend far beyond the simple pleasure of moving. This psychocorporeal practice offers profound advantages on both the physical and mental levels.

Release of repressed emotions

Dance therapy makes it possible to express emotions that are difficult to verbalize, such as anger, sadness, or a feeling of isolation. Movements become a bodily language that conveys our inner states. In fact, this approach creates a channel to release accumulated tension and repressed emotions. Thus, deep feelings find a space for expression without requiring words.

Boosting self-confidence

Studies show that after 12 weeks of dance, self-esteem increases significantly. By exploring different movements in a supportive setting, one develops a better self-image. Moreover, teachers often notice that young people who are usually shy gain confidence during dance therapy workshops.

Reducing stress and anxiety

Dance stimulates the production of endorphins, these "happiness hormones" that naturally reduce stress. A study published in Psychology of Music shows that dancing regularly decreases cortisol levels, the stress hormone. In addition, this practice promotes a state of mindfulness that distances the mind from daily worries.

Improving body awareness

This approach helps rediscover one's anatomy and bring up a host of forgotten sensations. It makes it possible to reconnect with one's body in a world where we are often cut off from it. During sessions, participants learn to observe their physical tensions and relax them.

Stimulating vitality and life drive

A six-week dance therapy program can considerably improve vitality and reduce fatigue. This practice provides a feeling of lightness and renewed energy. After dancing, participants generally feel both energized, euphoric, and relaxed.

Support in emotional or physical disorders

Dance therapy proves effective in alleviating various disorders. Studies show its positive impact on depression and anxiety. For people with Parkinson's, it improves functional mobility and postural stability. Ultimately, this approach can also support isolated people or those who have suffered violence in their psychological reconstruction.

How does a dance therapy session unfold?

A dance therapy session is a unique experience that adapts to the needs of each participant. I invite you to discover the essential stages of this therapeutic journey through movement.

Welcome and setting an objective

Each meeting begins with a warm welcome that establishes a framework of trust. An initial verbal exchange makes it possible to express one's emotions and physical state in the present moment. The dance therapist then creates a safe space where participants can express themselves freely. Sometimes, a specific theme or intention is introduced to guide the movements toward a therapeutic goal.

Guided or free improvisation phase

Next, participants engage in a warm-up to activate the body and make it present. Movement is mostly guided and sometimes improvised, with clear intentions set by the therapist. This phase makes it possible to explore the themes expressed at the beginning of the session while welcoming spontaneous movement.

Use of music or silence

Music often accompanies sessions to promote group cohesion, while silence helps one better listen to one's inner rhythm. Musical vibrations help loosen tension and relieve stress. Moreover, some therapists incorporate unusual objects such as large balls to encourage body awareness.

Exploration of different types of movement

During the session, movements vary considerably, ranging from simple everyday gestures to more dance-like movements. The therapist encourages the exploration of slow and fluid, energetic, or symbolic movements according to the needs, ease, and abilities of the participants. Note that it is not necessary to know how to dance to take part.

Time for verbalization and exchange

Finally, the session ends with a moment of reflection and sharing. This integration time makes it possible to verbalize the sensations experienced, better understand certain emotions, and guide subsequent sessions. It is during this exchange that participants can share their observations, feelings, and discoveries.