danceSing: Supporting Wellbeing this Winter
Written by Natalie Gary, founder and CEO of danceSing, on behalf of Renaissance Care.
As the winter months settle in, it’s natural to feel a little lower in energy and mood. Shorter days, colder temperatures, and reduced sunlight can make it harder to stay active and upbeat. Renaissance Care, are committed to ensuring their residents maintain their physical and emotional wellbeing all year round with danceSing.
Proud to be in our third year of partnering with Renaissance Care, danceSing is an innovative digital wellbeing platform that brings joy, movement, and calm to all residents.
The Power of Movement During Winter
Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to lift your mood, especially during winter. Regular movement helps release endorphins—the body’s natural feel-good chemicals—while improving circulation, energy levels, and overall health. Renaissance Care, understand that even gentle activity can make a big difference, which is why they use danceSing’s digital resources to keep their residents active and engaged.
Whether it’s dance fitness, yoga, Pilates, or strength exercises, danceSing provides evidence-based, accessible programs designed specifically for older adults. The platform is supported by research from The University of Stirling, a global leader in aging and dementia studies, ensuring that every movement resource is safe, effective, and tailored to the care sector.
danceSing On Air: A 24/7 Wellbeing Companion
One of the highlights of danceSing is danceSing On Air, a 24/7 radio station created specifically for the care sector. This unique offering encourages movement and supports wellbeing at just the right times of day, adapting to our natural rhythms and promoting a healthier, happier routine.
• Morning and Daytime: During waking hours, the music gradually increases in tempo to encourage movement and boost energy. From gentle stretching to upbeat dancing, the music motivates residents to get moving, improving circulation, and lifting spirits.
• Twilight Hours: As the day winds down, the tempo slows to promote calm and relaxation. For residents living with dementia, this soothing music helps reduce restlessness and supports a sense of peace, aiding in a smoother transition to nighttime.
• Nighttime Comfort: For those who may be awake during the night, danceSing On Air offers comforting meditations and soft, familiar music to help residents feel safe, connected, and reassured. This nurturing approach supports better sleep, which is crucial for healing and overall wellbeing.
Supporting Resilience and Adaptation
Winter is a time to embrace balance. While activity is important, danceSing On Air also reminds us that it’s okay to slow down, cosy up, and adapt to the season. Through wellbeing tips tailored to the time of year, residents are encouraged to honour their bodies, rest when needed, and stay connected to their circadian rhythms.
“If you’re too tired to work out, you probably need to work out!” By engaging in danceSing’s enjoyable and accessible activities, residents build strength,maintain flexibility, improve resilience, ease out joints and experience a greater sense of joy —even on the chilliest days.
A Partnership that Works Year-Round
Renaissance Care were early adopters of danceSing’s innovative digital wellbeing platform and have seen first-hand the positive impact it has on their residents and staff. The Renaissance teams work closely with danceSing throughout the year to ensure they are delivering the best possible experience, helping the residents live healthier, happier lives.
This partnership is a testament to a forward-thinking group that places value on enriching their residents’ lives throughout the year. Renaissance Care value the quality digital resources in transforming care. By combining movement, music, and mindfulness, danceSing empowers residents to thrive—not just in winter, but every day of the year.
Looking Ahead
As we move into our third year together, we are excited to continue enhancing the wellbeing resources and training on offer to all at Renaissance Care. Movement, music, singing and meaningful connection. With danceSing On Air as a constant companion, all the residents (and staff) are staying active, feeling supported, and enjoying life to the fullest.
Together, Renaissance Care and danceSing are creating brighter, healthier days for all—one step, one song, and one moment at a time.
