Dancing is Free Seratonin!

• By Beth Meirav
• My Blog

So, this past weekend, I went to this fantastic concert at Mizner Park—big shoutout to O.A.R., the Reis Brothers, and Ripe! The music was insane, but it was the energy that really did it for me. And let me tell you, the lead singer of Ripe, Robbie Wulfsohn, said something that hit home: “Dancing is free serotonin.” How awesome is that? I loved it so much, I decided to write this newsletter about it!

Because let’s be real: there’s nothing like moving your body to boost your mood. The moment Robbie said it, those who weren’t already dancing got up, ready to let loose. And here’s the truth—Robbie is 100% spot-on! Dancing isn’t just fun; it’s one of the best things you can do for your body and mind. It boosts serotonin, the happy hormone, burns calories, improves balance, agility, muscle strength, and lifts your mood. Whatever you’re stressing over takes a break when you’re dancing and moving to the beat.

Motion is the Lotion

Now, you might’ve heard me say this before: motion is the lotion! Moving our bodies keeps everything working better. Our joints, muscles, and bones stay lubricated and healthy when we move, and let’s face it—nobody wants to feel like the Tin Man from The Wizard of Oz. Moving every day, whether it’s dancing, walking, or doing a little stretching, is like applying a fresh coat of lube for your joints! It helps ease stiffness, keeps our bodies functioning, and even prevents those weird “I sat too long” aches.

Muscle is the Organ of Longevity

If dancing isn’t quite your style, that’s cool too, because there are so many ways to keep moving! Building muscle is a key part of staying strong and healthy for the long haul. Muscle isn’t just for bodybuilders; it’s actually the organ of longevity! The more muscle you have, the more calories you burn just sitting around doing absolutely nothing (google it! it's true!). Talk about efficient! Plus, building muscle helps us live longer, improves balance, protects against injuries, and helps our metabolism stay up to speed.

Other Fun Ways to Move Your Body

Dancing might be free serotonin, but it’s definitely not the only way to stay active and happy. Here are some other fun ways to get that body in motion:

1. Take a Hike – Get outside, enjoy nature, and let your mind wander. Hiking works muscles you didn’t know you had and is perfect for a mental reset.
2. Play a Sport – Basketball, tennis, pickleball—whatever floats your boat! You’ll be working muscles, burning calories, and having a blast without even realizing it’s exercise.
3. Try a Dance Class – Whether it’s salsa, hip-hop, or even Zumba, dancing in a group is fun, social, and makes for one heck of a workout.
4. Yoga or Stretching – Stretching may not feel like a hardcore workout, but it helps keep joints and muscles flexible, making it easier to stay active in everything else you do.
5. Bike Ride – Riding a bike isn’t just for kids! It’s a low-impact way to strengthen your legs, boost endurance, and enjoy some fresh air.
6. Strength Training – Resistance bands, free weights, or even bodyweight exercises can help build muscle, improve bone density, and keep you moving well for life.

Get Moving to Live Your Best Life!

So, here’s the bottom line: Moving your body isn’t just about burning calories; it’s about living longer, feeling better, and having a little fun along the way. And the more you move, the better you’ll feel. Motion keeps everything running smoothly, and a little dancing (or whatever gets you moving!) is a great way to boost your mood, stay fit, and build those long-lasting healthy habits.

So whether you’re hitting the dance floor, lifting weights, or just going for a walk, make it a priority to move a little every day. Let’s finish the year strong, happy, and ready to keep the good vibes going!

Now go put on your favorite song, and let’s see that free serotonin in action!

Keep moving, keep grooving!

Stay healthy and fabulous!