BODIES IN MOTION PROGRAMS
Syzygy Dance Project is committed to improving the overall well-being of older adults 65+ in the communities we serve.
The Bodies in Motion program is a class designed to help aging adults connect with their bodies, let go of muscle stiffness and pain, and allow fluid movement to emerge.
Bodies In Motion is not just a great physical activity for people 65 and older—it’s also a chance for them to socialize while moving their bodies to music.
This class helps participants to be more relaxed, alert, and connected to the community.
The oldest Bodies in Motion participant is 108, and she is a testament to our belief that if we get our bodies moving, no matter our limitations, we can experience the positive benefits of dance.
During every class we see participants’ energy levels rise, smiles return to their faces, and many remark that they experience less pain.
As part of our service to adults 65+, Syzygy Dance Project provides Bodies in Motion classes in New Jersey through New Bridge Services and Life Center Stage, and at the VA Palo Alto Health Care System. We have also provided services at the Sausalito Village and the Jewish Home of San Francisco.
The Benefits of Dance for Aging Adults
The New England Journal of Medicine conducted a 21-year study of aging adults 75+ that monitored the rates of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, in the participants. The study found that participation in leisure activities is associated with a reduced risk of dementia, even after adjustment for base-line cognitive status and after the exclusion of subjects with possible preclinical dementia.
"The researchers studied a range of cognitive and physical activities, and dance was the one activity that was good for the mind, significantly reducing dementia risk. Regular dancing reduced the risk of dementia by 76%, twice as much as reading.”
Please consider supporting our work with adults 65+. Every dollar helps. Whether it’s a one time donation or on-going support to the SDP Bodies in Motion Outreach Program, you can help us continue our programs to help older adults be physically active.