Learning to dance can improve the condition of both body and mind at any age. Throughout history, sages have taught ways of coordinating the mental and the physical to provide balance in life. The English word "yoke" comes from the Sanskrit word "yoga," meaning the "yolking together" of mind and body. Ballet uses this same approach to move the dancer across the floor. Some might even say that it is the harmonious combination of mental and physical movements which makes any dancing beautiful.
The study of ballet provides physical benefits of all kinds, improving coordination, balance, dexterity, muscle tone, and agility. Anyone who doesn't already have a similar kind of practice can find great rewards in learning ballet. Studies have shown repeatedly that Americans, especially American children, as compared to those of other countries, do not get enough physical activity of any kind to keep them healthy in the long term. In this way, ballet classes are a kind of exercise routine. When
In addition to the benefits for the physical body, the act of practicing ballet carries many more benefits for the mind. The focus and cooperation of the mind in dancing will improve concentration, discipline, creativity, perseverance, and more. It will cultivate the ability to stick to problems and to refine forms until they work fluidly and flawlessly. The act of dancing familiarizes the dancer with the process of cooperating with themselves to overcome their own limitations. The ability to refi