Can playing a musical instrument really improve your mental health? Science says yes! In this episode of The Happy Dance Podcast, we’re diving into the research-backed benefits of making music and how it can positively impact your mood, brain function, and overall well-being.

I’ll be sharing insights from recent studies on music and mental health, including how playing an instrument can reduce stress, improve cognitive abilities, and foster deep social connections. Plus, I’ll reflect on my own experiences with playing instruments—past and present.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

- How playing an instrument affects brain health, memory, and focus

- Why music is a powerful tool for stress relief and emotional regulation

- The role of music in building social connections and combating loneliness

- How achieving musical goals can boost confidence and self-esteem

- My personal experiences with playing instruments and how music has supported my well-being

Whether you're a lifelong musician or someone who’s always wanted to pick up an instrument, this episode will inspire you to embrace music as a powerful tool for healing and self-expression.

Episode References:

🎧 Check out the ⁠⁠RELAPSE - The Happy Dance Podcast Ep. 57 Playlist on Spotify

🌈 Download my guidebook and boost your mood with movement: ⁠⁠Move Your Mood: A Practical Guide to Using Dance and Music for Self-Discovery and Sparking Joy⁠⁠

🩰 Find printable coloring books and fun resources for little dancers: ⁠⁠Dance Daze Online⁠⁠

⚡ Subscribe to my newsletter for weekly creativity and wellness tips: ⁠⁠The Creative Spark⁠⁠

🎨 Purchase a handmade dance board to enhance your dance practice: ⁠⁠Dance Daze Dance Boards⁠⁠

Stay Connected:

✨ Follow The Happy Dance Podcast on IG: ⁠⁠⁠@TheHappyDancePodcast⁠

✨ Follow me on TT: ⁠⁠@saumirahmcwoodson⁠⁠

✨ Follow me on IG: ⁠⁠@saumirahmcwoodson⁠⁠

In Episode 56 of The Happy Dance Podcast, I’m exploring the connection between vulnerability, authenticity, and creativity. Being open and real in our creative work—and in life—can feel uncomfortable, but it’s also the key to creating meaningful connections and deepening creative expression.

In This Episode:

- Why vulnerability is essential for creativity

- How authenticity strengthens both creative work and personal relationships

- The emotional roadblocks that can get in the way of true creative expression

- The psychological benefits of living and creating authentically

- How embracing vulnerability creates deeper emotional impact in both art and life

Episode References:

Brennan, C., & Keenan, E. (2020). Vulnerability and creativity: Exploring the link between openness and creative performance. Journal of Creative Behavior, 54(2), 245-261.

Kernis, M. H., & Goldman, B. M. (2006). A multicomponent conceptualization of authenticity: Theory and research. Advances in Experimental Social Psychology, 38, 283-357.

Wood, A. M., Linley, P. A., Maltby, J., Baliousis, M., & Joseph, S. (2008). The authentic personality: A theoretical and empirical conceptualization and the development of the authenticity scale. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 55(3), 385–399.

🎧 Check out the ⁠SUMMER LOADING - The Happy Dance Podcast Episode 56 Playlist on Spotify

🌈 Download my guidebook and boost your mood with movement: ⁠Move Your Mood: A Practical Guide to Using Dance and Music for Self-Discovery and Sparking Joy⁠

🩰 Find printable coloring books and fun resources for little dancers: ⁠Dance Daze Online⁠

⚡ Subscribe to my newsletter for weekly creativity and wellness tips: ⁠The Creative Spark⁠

🎨 Purchase a handmade dance board to enhance your dance practice: ⁠Dance Daze Dance Boards⁠

Stay Connected:

✨ Follow me on TikTok: ⁠@saumirahmcwoodson⁠

✨ Follow me on IG: ⁠@saumirahmcwoodson⁠

✨ Follow The Happy Dance Podcast on IG: ⁠@TheHappyDancePodcast

Creativity isn’t just about waiting for inspiration—it’s about taking action and making it a daily habit. In this episode of The Happy Dance Podcast, we’re exploring how to move beyond fleeting creative sparks and build a sustainable creative practice that enhances your well-being and self-expression.

We’ll discuss why creativity matters for everyone, not just artists, and the science behind its impact on stress relief. You’ll learn simple and effective ways to incorporate creativity into your daily life, along with how small creative habits can lead to long-term growth and fulfillment. We’ll also cover tips for overcoming creative blocks and staying inspired.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have practical tools to nurture your creativity, build confidence in your artistic expression, and embrace creativity as a natural part of your life. Tune in now and start making creativity a daily habit!

Episode References:

Beaty, R. E., Benedek, M., Silvia, P. J., & Schacter, D. L. (2018). Creative cognition and brain network dynamics. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 22(10), 933-945.

Conner, T. S., DeYoung, C. G., & Silvia, P. J. (2018). Everyday creative activity as a path to flourishing. The Journal of Positive Psychology, 13(2), 181-189.

Forgeard, M. J., & Eichner, K. V. (2022). Creativity and mental well-being: Contributions from positive psychology. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 870315.

Kaimal, G., Ray, K., & Muniz, J. (2016). Reduction of cortisol levels and participants' responses following art making. Art Therapy, 33(2), 74-80.

Ritter, S. M., Damian, R. I., Simonton, D. K., van Baaren, R. B., Strick, M., Derks, J., & Dijksterhuis, A. (2012). Diversifying experiences enhance creative thinking. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 48(4), 939-942.  

Stuckey, H. L., & Nobel, J. (2010). The connection between art, healing, and public health: A review of current literature. American Journal of Public Health, 100(2), 254-263.

🎧 Check out the SPRING SEROTONIN - The Happy Dance Podcast Episode 55 Playlist on Spotify

🌈 Download my guidebook and boost your mood with movement: Move Your Mood: A Practical Guide to Using Dance and Music for Self-Discovery and Sparking Joy

🩰 Find printable coloring books and fun resources for little dancers: Dance Daze Online

⚡ Subscribe to my newsletter for weekly creativity and wellness tips: The Creative Spark

🎨 Purchase a handmade dance board to enhance your dance practice: Dance Daze Dance Boards

Stay connected:
✨ Follow me on TikTok: @saumirahmcwoodson

✨ Follow me on Instagram: @saumirahmcwoodson

✨ Follow The Happy Dance Podcast on IG: @TheHappyDancePodcast

Stepping into the world of raves for the first time can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be! In this episode of The Happy Dance Podcast, we’re breaking down the common anxieties first-time ravers face and how a little preparation can transform uncertainty into pure dance floor euphoria.

We'll explore:
✨ Why feeling awkward at your first rave is completely normal
✨ How understanding rave culture can shift your mindset
✨ Practical tips for building confidence before you hit the dance floor
✨ The role of preparation in enhancing your overall experience
✨ How to embrace your unique style and let go of self-consciousness

By the end of this episode, you’ll be ready to move past the awkwardness, connect with the music, and fully immerse yourself in the joy of raving. Tune in now and get ready to dance with confidence!

Episode References:

Adam, H., & Galinsky, A. D. (2012). Enclothed Cognition: The Influence of Clothes on First Impressions and Self-Perception. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 48(4), 918-925.

Bandura, A. (1997). Self-efficacy: The exercise of control. Freeman.

Kuppens, P., Realo, A., & Diener, E. (2012). The Role of Positive Emotions in Social Interactions and Well-Being. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 102(5), 1056-1070.

Lazarus, R. S. (2006). Stress and emotion: A new synthesis. Springer Publishing Company.

♫ Check out the Episode 54 Playlist: LIVING & DANCING - The Happy Dance Podcast Episode 54 Playlist

🌈 Download my guidebook and boost your mood with movement: Move Your Mood: A Practical Guide to Using Dance and Music for Self-Discovery and Sparking Joy

🩰 Find printable coloring books and fun resources for little dancers: Dance Daze Online

⚡ Subscribe to my newsletter for weekly creativity and wellness tips: The Creative Spark

🎨 Purchase a handmade dance board to enhance your dance practice: Dance Daze Dance Boards

Stay connected:
✨ Follow me on TikTok: @saumirahmcwoodson
✨ Follow me on Instagram: @saumirahmcwoodson
✨ Follow The Happy Dance Podcast on IG: @TheHappyDancePodcast

Do you feel anxious about going out alone—whether it’s dining solo, attending a concert, or showing up at an event by yourself? In this episode of The Happy Dance Podcast, we’re tackling the fear of doing things solo and reframing it as a powerful opportunity for self-growth, confidence, and self-discovery.

I’ll share my personal experiences of going out alone, practical tips for overcoming the fear of being by yourself in public, and how to shift your mindset to actually enjoy solo outings. We’ll explore why intentionally choosing to do things alone can be a form of self-care, help you break free from external validation, and strengthen your sense of independence.

If you’ve ever wondered how to be comfortable alone in social settings, how to stop feeling self-conscious, or how to start enjoying your own company, this episode is for you!

Topics covered:

✅ How to overcome the fear of going out alone

✅ Practical tips for enjoying solo experiences (dining, concerts, events)

✅ Why solo outings can be empowering for self-growth

✅ How to build confidence and embrace independence

✨ Ready to stop waiting for the perfect plus-one and start living life on your own terms? Hit play now!

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast!

#SoloTravel #SelfConfidence #PersonalGrowth #GoingOutAlone #TheHappyDancePodcast #DanceWithSaumirah

♫ Check out my episode playlists: Saumirah's Spotify Playlists

🌈 Download my guidebook and boost your mood with movement:⁠⁠ Move Your Mood: A Practical Guide to Using Dance and Music for Self-Discovery and Sparking Joy⁠⁠

🩰 Find printable coloring books and fun resources for little dancers: ⁠⁠Dance Daze Online⁠⁠

⚡ Subscribe to my newsletter for weekly creativity and wellness tips:⁠⁠ The Creative Spark⁠⁠

🎨 Purchase a handmade dance board to enhance your dance practice: ⁠⁠Dance Daze Dance Boards⁠⁠

Stay connected:

✨ Follow me on TikTok:⁠⁠ @saumirahmcwoodson⁠

⁠⁠⁠✨ Follow me on Instagram: ⁠⁠@saumirahmcwoodson⁠⁠

✨ FollowThe Happy Dance Podcast on IG: ⁠⁠@thehappydancepodcast

Discover how live music experiences can boost confidence, foster self-awareness, and ignite personal growth. In this episode ofThe Happy Dance Podcast, I share personal stories of freedom and connection at concerts and festivals, plus practical tips for making music events more intentional—whether you're going solo or with friends. Tune in to learn how embracing live music can deepen self-expression and spark transformation.

♫ Check out the Episode 52 Playlist: ⁠NOSTALGIA - The Happy Dance Podcast Ep. 52 Playlist

🌈 Download my guidebook and boost your mood with movement:⁠Move Your Mood: A Practical Guide to Using Dance and Music for Self-Discovery and Sparking Joy⁠

🩰 Find printable coloring books and fun resources for little dancers:⁠Dance Daze Online⁠

⚡ Subscribe to my newsletter for weekly creativity and wellness tips:⁠The Creative Spark⁠

🎨 Purchase a handmade dance board to enhance your dance practice:⁠Dance Daze Dance Boards⁠

Stay connected:

✨ Follow me on TikTok:⁠@saumirahmcwoodson

⁠✨ Follow me on Instagram:⁠@saumirahmcwoodson⁠

✨ FollowThe Happy Dance Podcast on IG:⁠@thehappydancepodcast

In this episode of The Happy Dance Podcast, we’re diving into the art of dressing with intention and how fashion can be a powerful form of self-expression. We’ll explore the psychological effects of color and style choices, how what we wear can influence our confidence and creativity, and simple ways to use fashion as a tool for empowerment. Plus, I’ll share personal insights on embracing fashion as a creative outlet that reflects who we are and how we want to show up in the world.

♫ Check out the Episode 51 Playlist: ALL JOY - The Happy Dance Podcast Ep. 51 Playlist

🌈 Download my guidebook and boost your mood with movement: Move Your Mood: A Practical Guide to Using Dance and Music for Self-Discovery and Sparking Joy

🩰 Find printable coloring books and fun resources for little dancers: Dance Daze Online

⚡ Subscribe to my newsletter for weekly creativity and wellness tips: The Creative Spark

🎨 Purchase a handmade dance board to enhance your dance practice: Dance Daze Dance Boards

Stay connected:
✨ Follow me on TikTok: @saumirahmcwoodson
✨ Follow me on Instagram: @saumirahmcwoodson
✨ Follow The Happy Dance Podcast on IG: @thehappydancepodcast

In this episode of The Happy Dance Podcast, we dive into the transformative power of creativity in self-discovery. Through dance, music, and movement, we reflect on how engaging with the arts can reveal who we truly are and help us grow as individuals. I share personal stories of how dance and music have shaped my journey and offer insights into the connection between creativity and self-awareness.

🎶 Check out the Episode 50 Playlist: "YOU'RE ALLOWED TO CRY - The Happy Dance Podcast Ep. 50 Playlist"

Stay connected:
✨ Follow me on TikTok: @saumirahmcwoodson
✨ Follow me on Instagram: @saumirahmcwoodson
✨ Follow The Happy Dance Podcast on IG: @thehappydancepodcast

Let’s discover ourselves, one dance at a time!

In this episode of The Happy Dance Podcast, I dive into how dance can be a powerful tool for improving mental wellness. I explore the science behind movement and mood, share personal stories, and provide tips for developing your own movement-based mental wellness practice. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or someone looking to reconnect with your body and mind, this episode is packed with inspiration to get you moving, grooving, and feeling better.

🎧 New Feature! I’ve created a special playlist for this episode to support you on your journey toward better mental health through movement. Listen and dance along to tunes that uplift your mood, ignite creativity, and bring joy to your day. Check out the playlist here.

Let’s connect and keep the conversation going!
🌟 Website: SaumirahMcWoodson.com
📸 Instagram: @SaumirahMcWoodson
🎥 TikTok: @SaumirahMcWoodson
🎨 Dance Daze Dance Boards: DanceDazeDanceBoards.com

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Happy Dance Podcast wherever you listen! Let’s keep dancing for joy, growth, and connection.