“Without science, art would become a crude mess of folklore and emotional quackery. The truth of art keeps science from becoming inhuman, and the truth of science keeps art from becoming ridiculous”
The Notebooks of Raymond Chandler, Ecco Press NY 1938
Recently, I have begun exploring how physical activity, particularly dance, can enhance health and well-being of different societal groups; an insight I have gained from working closely with dance communities in Maputo, and around the world.
Dance is how I connect with people. Wherever I go, I take part in local dance classes: learning new rhythms, traditions, and ways of being together.
Looking ahead, I plan on creating causal evidence on the effects of dance on the psychological and physiological well-being of different societal groups.
Such research is important because movement is a universal but underexplored tool for improving health, confidence, and social cohesion, particularly in low-income settings where access to mental health or recreational services is limited.
Photo: With Dance Company Tafika in Maputo’s Cine Afrika
Hanna Berkel | Applied Microeconomist | Evidence for Policy 