| Abstract [eng] |
One way to expand alternative approaches to mental health promotion and address diverse needs is through somatic interventions, which link psychological experience with bodily sensations and autonomic nervous system functioning (Kuhfuß et al., 2021). “Dance-Walk” is a relatively understudied mind–body method that combines group walking and dancing while maintaining mindful awareness of bodily sensations and the environment. This randomized controlled trial examined the effects of the somatic intervention “Dance-Walk” on subjective vitality and mental health, and tested whether increases in subjective vitality could help explain the intervention’s effects. The study included 69 participants aged 18–70 (M = 40.2, SD = 10.27); 97.1% were women (n = 67) and 2.9% were men (n = 2). Outcomes were assessed using the Subjective Vitality Scale (Ryan & Frederick, 1997), the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (Lovibond & Lovibond, 1995), and the Positive Mental Health Scale (Lukat et al., 2016). Results showed that “Dance-Walk” was associated with increased subjective vitality and positive mental health, and reduced stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. Subjective vitality emerged as an important mechanism through which somatic interventions may improve mental health. |
