Using dance to create awareness on health

Dancing can be a way to stay fit for people of all ages, shapes and sizes. It has a wide range of physical and mental benefits. To highlight these and to pay an ode to classical dance, Natya Rasa 2017 is being organised by Soundarapandian Bone and Joint Hospital in the city. It is an exhilarating event that pays tribute to Indian classical dance. 

“What better way to start off the year than to have an event that not only highlights the importance of preserving our culture, but also promotes a healthy lifestyle. Out of all of the many classical dances in India, we have carefully selected four types of dances which speaks volumes to us in terms of fitness, dedication, emotions and resilience. The four forms of dances are Odissi, Kathak, Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi,” says Dr. Sruthi Sivamurugan, director of Soundarapandian Bone and Joint Hospital. 

The performances at Natya Rasa 2017 will be on unique concepts by Odissi exponent Reela Hota, Kathak exponent Astha Dixit, Kuchipudi exponent Prateeksha Kashi and talented Bharatanatyam danseuse Radhe Jaggi. These dancers will not only be showcasing their dance but will also touch on the issues impacting the country. The event also intends to spread awareness on impact of dance on health and wellness. 

“Fitness of the body goes hand in hand with fitness of the mind. When we dance, our mind rests; there is no room for distraction when we are immersed in the sensual pleasure of movement. It helps in quietening the mind, while activating the body. Not many of us know the benefits dance has directly on bone health. It is proven that dance is a form on weight bearing activity that not only keeps the bones strong, but also helps build bone mass. 

This is an effective prevention method against Osteoporosis. Dance also improves muscle strength and flexibility which directly impacts how our body will react to an injury. We want to encourage the audience at Natya Rasa 2017 to not only get active, but to pursue an active and healthy lifestyle,” she adds.