Celebrate National Women’s Health Week

National Women's Health Week

Fred Astaire Dance Studios invites you to kick up your heels and get your heart pumping to highlight National Women’s Health Week in May.

 

Although many scientific studies debunk the theory that women are genetically predisposed to caregiving, the numbers tell the real story. Approximately 61% of all caregivers in the United States are women, a report by the AARP reported. In the animal kingdom, scientific research suggests females take on the caregiving role because males devote more time to attracting a mate. Regardless of the science behind females and nurturing, caregiving is a role commonly shouldered by women.

 

At the same time, female caregivers tend to put the needs of their loved ones before their own health. Women who are caregivers have a higher incidence of physical and mental health concerns, the Centers for Disease Control revealed.

 

To recognize the heavy load many women shoulder, National Women’s Health Week begins each year on Mother’s Day and is designed to encourage women to make their own health a priority. National Women’s Health Week was created to encourage women to put themselves at the top of the list and get preventative care. This year’s theme is “Forward Focus: Achieving Healthier Futures Together.”

 

Ballroom Dancing Gives Caregivers a Boost

Caregiving is a tough job. Take a break during National Women’s Health Week by learning some new dance moves at your local Fred Astaire Dance Studios location. Ballroom dancing offers a number of health benefits. It’s a low-impact workout designed to improve cardiovascular fitness and burn calories. Experts agree dancing is just as effective as cycling or running. Ballroom dancing burns up to 320 calories per hour. It’s also a fun way to decrease blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, strengthen bones, and promote increased lung capacity.

 

Taking time for self-care will do wonders for your mental health. Ballroom dancing is fun, and cutting loose on the dance floor will give you time to cast your worries aside. It can help decrease stress and improve your mood. As an added bonus, ballroom dancing can help reduce the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease and helps prevent dementia, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.

 

If you need some inspiration to schedule a lesson, check out how much fun these moms have dancing with their sons on their wedding day.

 

This mother and son duo from Salt Lake City, Utah, get the party started at the reception with a dance mashup to a wide variety of musical genres, including pop, country, and disco.

 

Around the two-minute mark, the mother and son in this video pick up the tempo and leave an impression with guests.

 

The mom at this wedding had to remove her shoes before getting groovy on the dance floor with her son.

 

Meet Health Goals on the Dance Floor

Take time out from your busy schedule this month to have fun and improve your health. Ballroom dancing is a surefire way to get your heart rate up and make you smile. Contact your local Fred Astaire Dance Studios location to get started.