Variations of salivary cortisol level in belly dance practitioners

Abstract

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the salivary cortisol belly dance practitioners before and after dance class to verify if this practice helps in relieving stress. Materials and Methods: It was evaluated 19 women practitioners of belly dancing who do not practice other kind of physical activities. Quantification of cortisol salivary was performed before and after the dance lesson lasting an hour, participants were also questioned regarding the time already practicing belly dancing and amount of weekly hours practiced. Data were analyzed using the t test student paired. Results and Discussion: It was demonstrated that participants who practice belly dance classes for more than four years and practicing for three or more hours per week, they obtain a significant decrease salivary cortisol after end of class. Significant changes to practitioners for less than four years or who participated in dance classes for less than three hours per week were observed. It is observed in the literature that salivary cortisol levels may vary depending on the type of dance or physical activity, and the same is shown decreased in lentificadas dances, demonstrating that the present data corroborate previously published studies. Conclusion: The data suggest that the time and frequency of practice influence the decrease in salivary cortisol, however, more research are needed to contribute data found.