If diamonds really are a girl’s best friend, then dancing can give us diamonds – as well as new friends.
The health benefits of dancing are increasingly well known and appreciated.
A recent Australian study found that line dancing classes offered older participants valuable opportunities to engage in dance and music, be active and experience successful ageing, health and well-being as well as establishing social connections.
All outcomes you would have to call diamonds in our lives as we live to older ages.
And these are all benefits mentioned by the Sunny Coasters Line Dancing group who meets in Noosaville and Tewantin to regularly dance together.
Heather aged 71 loves the friendship and camaraderie of the dance group.
“It’s a great way to meet people – and they’re all people who want to dance, to have fun and to get fit,” she said.
“I’m more flexible, stronger in the legs and more stable than I used to be and I have heaps more energy.
“I’ve had a hip replacement and a back operation and am just thrilled to have found such a friendly and enjoyable way to get fit. I wish everyone could do it.”
Line dancing boosts both physical and mental health. Some known benefits include helping to prevent falls, improving posture and flexibility, lifting mood and easing anxiety. Regular line dancing sessions have been found to be effective in treating chronic neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Dementia and depression.
Diane, 75, found herself sitting on the couch after two knee operations. Although she had previously been a line dancer, she didn’t think she would ever be able to dance again. Eighteen months later, Diane successfully participates in a couple of classes each week and says she has more energy and pep.
“Sue is the most fun teacher, she’s a ball of energy and has brilliant footwork. She makes it so easy to follow along and learn the steps.”
The leader of the Sunny Coasters Line Dancing group is Sue Ravenscroft, an experienced dance teacher of more than 30 years. Having taught, competed, judged, held workshops and demonstrations in both overseas locations as well as in Australia, Sue is now sharing her love of dance with Noosa locals. She often hears a great tune and choreographs her own dances to teach the group.
“I’m passionate about sharing and spreading the joy of line dancing. I love to see people having fun and achieving great results,” says Sue.
“My motto is anytime, anyplace, anywhere – and I seriously believe in dancing like no one’s watching.”
A couple of years ago, Sue’s English parents visited at the time of their diamond wedding anniversary. The Sunny Coasters did a special performance for them, dancing to a piece of music entitled “Diamonds.”
“They were absolutely thrilled,” Sue said.
The Sunny Coasters regularly take their fun routine on the road to perform for community groups and are available for private bookings.
“The classes are very welcoming,” said another dancer.
“I was going to leave the country; I was so sad and depressed. But now, the happiest time of the week is when I’m dancing. The second I set foot on the dance floor; my whole world becomes a happier place.”
If you’d like the chance to improve your fitness, memory and brain function, have fun and meet men and women in a welcoming and inclusive class then dust off your dancing shoes.
Up to six classes, including beginners’ sessions are available each week if you’d like to find some diamonds in your life.
Phone Sue on 0408337262 for more details.
