Journal of Behavioral Health and Psychology. 2023;
12(2):(329-368)
The Perspectives and Experiences of Women Who Attend a Mind-Body Dance Fitness Program: A Qualitative Descriptive Study
Tracy Hellem, Hanne Dolan, Megan Parker, Ruth Taylor-Piliae
Abstract
Physical inactivity is a growing concern among women across the world. OULA is a dance
fitness format that includes a high-energy dance workout with intentional choreography
to combine the therapeutic use of dance to promote emotional expression with physical
activity. Qualitative methods were used to explore the experiences and perspectives
of OULA among women. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with women,
and content analysis of transcripts was completed. Themes identified were emotional
expression; life management; community / social connections; judgement-free; and life
skills. OULA appears to be a format that incorporates physical, psychological, and social
health in a judgement-free atmosphere.
