It’s something we all intuitively knew already – moving around to music that you enjoy makes you feel good. However, an Australian research study has now proven that dancing is indeed among the best forms of depression treatment. The aim of the study was to find out which exercises would work best for treating depressive disorders. Surprisingly, dancing was found to be better exercise for depression than several other exercises, including tai chi, yoga, jogging, and walking.
Dancing Is Great Exercise for Depression

Through 218 separate studies involving 14,170 participants, the researchers discovered that exercise resulted in moderate decreases across all areas, more so than merely taking SSRIs or cognitive behavioral therapy. interestingly, dancing led the way in terms of the greatest reductions in symptoms of depression. This was followed by exercises such as walking or running, yoga, and aerobic exercise combined with therapy. The effects of exercise and regular treatment varied depending on the demographic group.
The Difference Between Men and Women

Strength and cycling were found to be most effective for the women in the group. Men, however, seemed to respond more to tai chi, yoga, and aerobic exercise mixed with psychotherapies. When yoga and aerobic exercise were provided alongside psychotherapy, the older individuals had symptom reductions. However, it was found that strength training had a greater effect on younger people. Yet, it was dancing that was found to be the best exercise for depression.
Reactions to the Study

The findings of the study have now started to circulate online. Some commentators have remarked that it is “beautiful” that dancing could be such an effective exercise for depression. Erik Hoel, an author and scientist, recently posted a data chart from the study on X, stating that the conclusion of the study revealed one of its most fascinating discoveries. According to Hoel, “They buried the lede on this new study. It’s not that exercise beats out SSRIs for depression treatment, but that *just* dancing has the largest effect of any treatment for depression. That’s kind of beautiful.” Even Elon Musk, the owner of X, stated “Maybe I should try that.”
The Benefits of Dancing

According to Psych Central, the mere act of dancing has many benefits, including increased neurotransmitter activity, improved self-esteem, and increased mindfulness. They also referenced previous research that demonstrated that dancing can help people suffering from depression get out of their heads, away from negative thoughts and disturbing cyclic thoughts, and back into the present moment. Your mood also generally improves due to the release of endorphins and social interaction.
Dancing For Depression

The beauty of dancing is that it can be done practically anywhere and at any time. You can also do it alone, which is ideal, considering that most depressed people are not exactly in a social mood. Just put on your favorite music and start moving your body to the rhythm and melodies. You will start to feel better in no time at all! Once you feel comfortable doing so on your own, maybe consider joining others at a dance class. Interacting with other people is another great way to improve your mood and lift you out of your depression!
The Bottom Line on Dance as Exercise for Depression

According to reports, dancing can be used as a sort of somatic therapy, which uses bodily movement to release emotions. Whether you’re dancing alone in your room to your favorite music or on the dancefloor with friends and strangers, it turns out that dancing may be a lot more powerful than we previously thought. The next time you start to feel blue, put on some music, move your body, and see what it does for your mood!