Recently, I stepped out of the kitchen and onto the dance floor to participate in my first ballroom dance competition. I decided to do this during one of the busiest times of my life; I was in the midst of writing my second book. What inspired me to take lessons, I don’t know, but it turned out to be a wise move (Pun intended!).

Three days each week – after 11 hours of non-stop recipe development and testing – I took myself, my swollen ankles and throbbing feet to the studio. Magically, when I got to class, I felt the stress of the day melt away. Instead of thinking about looming deadlines, client meetings, presentations and my inconvenient travel schedule, I focused on dancing. What followed was transformational.

Research shows that exercise keeps the body and mind healthy by increasing brain chemicals which encourage nerve cells to grow. Dancing that requires you to remember steps and sequences boosts brain power by improving memory skills.

Perhaps, this explained why I faced each new day feeling invigorated and refreshed. Not only did dancing prepare me for competition, it rejuvenated my body and mind.

If you want to get off the couch or you’re bored with the treadmill, I encourage you take a few dance lessons. The sport provides terrific cardio, and it’s an effective way to improve strength, flexibility, balance and coordination.

So, kick up your heels! Boost your mood! Shed some weight! With dance, it’s easy, social and more fun than you’d ever imagine.