Noche Flamenca

As I was enjoying a night of performances from Noche Flamenca, I was reminded of how much the performing arts can be good for our nervous system. Music can help reduce stress, anxiety and depression, but this specific style of dance, flamenco, made me think about how the sounds and vibrations could stimulate your vagus nerve. There were moments throughout the performance with deliberate stillness and gradual movement that naturally make you slow your breathing and movement as you observed. Fine arts give not only the performers an opportunity to express themselves, but for the audience to feel an emotional response through their own interpretation of the experience. There is a sense of connection and community. Don’t underestimate the power of music, dancing, and the arts as part of your self care journey.