Dr. Maha Gingrich
By Dr. Maha Gingrich
In recent days, most classical dances are seen as entertainment. Very seldom are people able to tap into the deeper meaning of classical dances. Nobody is to blame for this change. We as teachers have the responsibility to shape the outlook of our audiences and perceptions of students. In a global world with technologies engulfing our lives, most kids are expecting to be entertained at all times, otherwise, they are bored.
To keep them busy, parents enroll them into music lessons, dance classes and sports.
We need to teach them the importance of commitment, benefits of personal enrichment, health and fitness, an opportunity to learn Indian epics and literature to keep traditions alive. I define tradition as something continuously handed from one generation to the other. In performing arts, dance is a gift given by the teachers to their students. We call it “guru shishya parampara”.
It is definitely an opportunity to bestow immeasurable stream of wisdom, serene and concrete knowledge.
As I pondered on this subject, so many thoughts and benefits of these classical dance forms came to my mind. They were invented thousands of years ago with our body, mind and soul as the central focus. I want to share a few of the psychosomatic benefits.
Spiritual Benefit: As I always say, “Dance is a prayer in motion”. It is always my dancing that gives me a sense of happiness and peace. Students who have graduated from my dance school say the same thing to me each time they visit me. For thousands of years, the performing arts in India have been a form of religious expression. It is an expression of spiritual energy. This blend of religion with classical dances has continued to exist through the centuries. I strongly urge all students to practice at home and make it their temple/church. Let the family be the audience, which is a rare opportunity for the family to enjoy the growth of their children.
Benefits of Hand Movements: Many of us are using our computers, phones, and laptops all day. This repetitive movement can cause harm to our fingers in the long run. You may end up with inflammation in your joints or even arthritis. How often do we take a break and stretch our hands and fingers? I am guilty for sure. Thank goodness for my dance classes. I want everyone of all ages and genders to try classical dance Hasta or hand gestures. These are like alphabets that form words. There are single hand gestures known as Asamyuta Hasta and combined hand gestures using both hands known as Samyuta Hasta. Here, every finger is used to create the required position while using the subtle movements of wrists and arms. While I am working at the computer, I do these hand gestures, and the stress is removed instantly. Ask your kids to show you these hand movements. You can bond while feeling better.
Benefits of Eye Movements: As we all know staring at technical devices all day can cause eye strain and may create vision issues. In classical dances we have Drishti-Bhedas, which means different ways of glancing. We have eight classifications of glances. However, for everyone including non-dancers, I suggest the following: 1. Alokitam: Swiftly turning eyes round. 2. Sachi: Looking out of the corners of the eyes obliquely without moving the head. 3. Pralokitam: When the glance turns from side to side. 4. Ullokitam: Looking up. 5. Anuvruttam: Glancing quickly up and down. 6. Avalokitam: Looking downwards. I suggest you repeat these eye movements 3 to 4 times a day.
Neck Benefits: I don’t know about you, but I carry all my stress in my neck and shoulders. Griva-Bhedas that are neck movements, are extremely beneficial in relieving tensions in neck and shoulders. The three major neck movements to try are: 1. Sundari: Moving the head side to side horizontally. 2. Parivartita: Neck moving from right to left suggesting the half-moon. 3. Prakampita: When the neck moves forward and backward in a thrusting motion like that of a pigeon. I strongly suggest that these neck movements must be done very slowly and intentionally to avoid pain or strain.
Heart and Mind Benefits: Whether you’re 70 years young or 7 years old, engaging in physical activities that involve dancing boosts your energy, and improves your cardiovascular health. The heart-pumping health benefits of dance cannot be ignored. It also helps our mental and emotional health by reducing stress, decreasing the symptoms of anxiety and loneliness. Learning something new like this is an excellent form of mental exercise that may also reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Dancing increases your balance, strengthens your muscles, and increases flexibility, reducing injuries, pain, and falls.
You must first check with your doctor before starting such physical activities. I hope you will have some fun with these dance moves and at the same time reap its benefits. Keeping all the traditions and efforts made by the gurus and students in mind, let us make a conscious effort not to reduce these traditional dance forms to mere entertainment.
For questions or comments, contact Dr. Maha Gingrich via email at gingrichmaha@gmail.com
