“Dancing Across TN” Virtual Line Dance This Friday

Get up from your desk and bust a move this Friday at noon to participate in “Dancing Across Tennessee.”

The State Department of Health, Healthy Kids and Teens, Inc. and the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth are sponsoring the virtual dance as part of Tennessee Child Health Month. Upper Cumberland Coordinator Kristi Paling said the goal is to get families up and moving for their health.

“It is just like when kids are at school and they need recess,” Paling said. “They need that outlet. They need that release of energy. What better way to do that is to get up and dance. It is just a fun thing to do.”

Paling said giving children an exercise break goes further than just physical health. Mental health and brain functionality also benefit.

“Exercise in any form is really good for kids,” Paling said. “It is just that mental breakaway. They are doing a lot of learning and a lot of activity. If you think about them even in the current situation in the school and some at home learning, it is a good breakaway. Just that little bit of socialization with someone else is really beneficial as well.”

The “Cupid Shuffle,” is the dance of choice for the 10 minute party, but Paling said any song or dance will work as long as you are having fun.

“You can put on a different type of music,” Paling said. “Energizing music or something a little bit calmer. It really does help with our mood, so we want to promote that as much as possible with everyone.”

Everyone is invited to share their pictures or video with #TNchildhealthmonth2020.