Navratri is one of the most celebrated festivals in India, especially in Gujarat and Maharashtra, where playing Garba during the nine days of celebration takes centre stage. Hearing ‘Garba’ the first words coming to your mind would be ‘Ae Haalo’ and a scenario of Daya Ben doing garba on ‘Dholida Dhol re Vagad’. For Gujaratis, garba is inevitable and being a gujarati myself, I cannot stop the movement of my feet if there’s garba music playing. However, I not only advocate garba because it’s my favourite form of dance but practising garba can have some amazing health benefits. It is not only a way to connect with culture and devotion but also an excellent form of exercise.

If you’re wondering whether playing Garba can help with weight loss and overall health, the answer is a resounding yes! Garba offers an array of health benefits, both physically and mentally, which makes it the perfect way to get your body moving during this festive season.

Garba is a high-energy dance performed in a circular pattern, symbolising the cycle of life. Traditionally, it involves rhythmic steps, hand movements, and clapping while moving around a lamp or image of the Goddess Amba. Garba performances can last for hours, which makes it an excellent form of cardiovascular exercise. But beyond tradition, Garba has evolved into a modern fitness trend that appeals to people looking for a fun way to stay in shape. Here are some health benefits of playing garba. 

1. Cardiovascular Health

Playing Garba for extended periods is akin to a full-body cardio workout. The high-intensity dance keeps your heart rate elevated, improving cardiovascular endurance. According to a study, regular participation in aerobic activities like dancing can significantly reduce the risk of heart diseases. Garba, with its fast pace and continuous movement, falls into this category.

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2. Full-Body Workout

One of the standout features of Garba is that it involves almost every part of your body. From your arms to your legs, core, and hips, every muscle group gets a workout. The repetitive movements improve muscle tone, flexibility, and coordination. The lower body, in particular, benefits from squats and lunges, while the upper body gets a workout from the hand and arm movements. Over time, this results in improved muscle strength and endurance.

3. Boosts Mental Health

The rhythmic beats of Garba music and the communal aspect of dancing together contribute to better mental well-being. Dancing is known to release endorphins, which help reduce stress and anxiety. A study published in Frontiers found that social dancing promotes a sense of community and emotional resilience, reducing symptoms of depression and stress. Garba, being a group activity, also strengthens social bonds, making it an all-around mood booster.

4. Weight Loss

Can Garba help with weight loss? Absolutely! On average, one hour of playing Garba can burn between 500 to 700 calories, depending on your intensity level. According to research, burning 3,500 kilo calories equates to losing approximately 0.45 kilograms (1 pound) of body weight. Given the duration of Garba sessions, regular participation over the nine days of Navratri can significantly aid in weight loss. Combine this with a healthy diet, and you’ll see noticeable results.

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5. Enhances Stamina and Endurance

Playing Garba requires stamina, especially if you participate for long hours each night. Over the course of Navratri, you’ll find that your endurance improves significantly. This translates into better stamina not just for dance but for other physical activities, making it easier to incorporate fitness into your routine after the festival is over.

Conclusion

Navratri’s Garba dance is much more than a festive activity—it’s a full-body workout that enhances cardiovascular health, boosts mental well-being, and helps with weight loss. For those looking to shed a few kilos, playing Garba offers a fun, effective way to burn calories while enjoying the cultural aspect of the festival. As studies show, the benefits of aerobic exercise, HIIT-style movements, and social interaction through dance combine to create a wholesome experience for both body and mind. So, this Navratri, put on your traditional attire, hit the dance floor, and enjoy the health benefits that come with playing Garba!