Physical Education and Health
Module 1: History and Nature of Dance
What is dance?
➢ Myers (2005) defined dance as a type of physical
activity which primarily focuses on the “aesthetic
or even entertaining experience”. Throughout
history, it serves various purposes and functions.
Around the globe, people from various culture use
dance;
1. To please deities through rituals,
2. To please others through entertainment and other
social function, and
3. To please oneself as a form of self-expression.
➢ Human civilization has seen the evolution of dance
from antiquity to modern times. It was said that the
first use of dance is for human communication with
▪ It is also used as a form of therapy after an injury.
2. Mental/Emotional benefits
▪ It is a way to release emotional stress.
▪ It is associated in the decrease in percentage of
having dementia, Alzheimer’s disease,
depression, etc.
▪ It is a great way to improve confidence and
self-esteem.
3. Social benefits
▪ It encourages positive social interactions
and interpersonal relationships.
▪ It helps to gain self-actualization in
society.
4. Cultural benefits
▪ It provides appreciation of culture.
▪ It helps to understand traditions.
