Exploring the Psychological Well-Being Perceptions of Regular Dancers Through a Qualitative Approach

Objective: This study aims to examine, through a qualitative lens, how regular engagement in dance activities influences individuals’ stress levels and emotional states. Beyond describing participants’ experiences, the study aims to shed light on the role of dance in fostering mental well-being. Moreover it highlights the potential of dance-based practices as complementary approaches within the field of mental health. Method: Employing a phenomenological research design, the study involved with 17 young adult participants who consistently attended dance activities. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and subjected to content analysis. Through this analytic process, themes, categories, and codes were systematically identified to capture the essence of participants’ lived experiences. Results: The analysis revealed that most participants experienced a marked reduction in stress, improvements in mood, and a sense of emotional release through dance. The stress-reducing and mood-enhancing effects of dance were particularly pronounced among individuals reporting higher initial levels of stress. These findings underscore the capacity of dance to function not only as a physical practice but also as a meaningful psychosocial resource that contributes to emotional regulation and psychological balance. Conclusion: Dance was found to facilitate stress management, cultivate positive affective states, and enhance overall psychological well-being. In light of these findings, it is recommended that dance be recognized as a valuable complementary method in both individual- and group-based mental health interventions, with implications for preventive, therapeutic, and community-oriented practices.