It has been proven that people with mood disorders who participate in dancing lessons, feel less depressed and experience significant reductions in their levels of anxiety and stress. Dancing can also increase people’s strength and balance and help them walk better. People with stable chronic heart failure who benefit from cardiovascular exercise (such as cycling) can benefit from dancing too and it is one of the best ways to help stave off dementia.

There are many dance opportunities in Lewisham, but there is one that you might especially find of interest: the over 55’s dance and drama at Ackroyd Community centre (Ackroyd Road, SE23 1DL). In these weekly sessions you will create short pieces of movement and drama. What is interesting about these sessions is that you will benefit from dancing as well as acting. You don’t need any experience, you can just turn up and try it. It is only £4 per class.

Almost everybody can dance, in spite of health issues. However, check with your doctor before starting a dancing regime, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions. It’s fun, it’s social, and it’s healthy. It doesn’t matter if you’re not good at it, don’t be shy and dance.