Classical Indian Dance Genres for Better Mental Health: Revisiting Empirical Evidences

Abstract

This narrative review is an attempt to understand the psychological advantages pertinent to Indian classical dance genres, including eight major classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Manipuri, Kathakkali, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Sattriya, and Mohiniyattam. Highlighting their prospective therapeutic applications in the field of mental health is the main aim of this article. Indian classical dance forms represent a comprehensive practice that harmonizes the mind, body, and spirit, facilitating emotional expression and fostering cultural connections. Classical dance styles like Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and Manipuri focus on telling stories through body language and facial expressions. This can help with stress relief, emotional regulation, and practicing mindfulness. Furthermore, Dance Movement Therapy (DMT) incorporates components such as abhinaya and mudras to address various psychological conditions, including anxiety, depression, and autism spectrum disorders. Empirical research findings highlight the efficacy of Indian dance in bolstering self-esteem, mitigating stress levels, and elevating both emotional and cognitive well-being. This review emphasizes the incorporation of Indian classical dance within therapeutic frameworks, advocating for its wider implementation to enhance mental health interventions.