An embedded neurobiological theory of dance, why it matters, and how it heals

Dance is used with increasing frequency as a health intervention and in research designs; despite this increased use, the techniques and mechanisms involved remain poorly understood. Through the use of novel neuroimaging methods that allow for recording of data while subjects are freely moving through space, I aim to elaborate a neurobiological model of dance that clearly articulates specific techniques and their effects on the nervous system. I hypothesize that elements of dance such as spatial awareness, changes in tempo, motor control/motor learning and increased body awareness recruit neural networks in specific and measurable ways, contributing to the benefits of dance reported by participants in dance interventions and/or dance therapy. My goal is to improve our understanding of the ways in which participating in dance can produce benefits for various populations, contributing to better research and intervention design and models of best practices. I hope this research will both broaden and clarify understandings of dance, increase the effective use of dance in health care and clinical settings, and improve access to programs using dance to improve of quality of life and function.

Faculty Supervisor:

Darcey Callison

Student:

Partner:

Technische Universität Berlin (Institut fur Mathematik)

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Other; Biotechnology; Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

York University

Program: