At 76, Britain’s King Charles III is among the world’s most famous SuperAgers. He caught our eye recently when he took time from his royal duties to share a personal playlist of his favorite dance-worthy songs (more on that below), reminding us that busting a move can bring joy at any age. (Which His Majesty does here.)
And not only that, dancing, whether in a ballroom, at a family fete, or just while prepping dinner, offers a powerful boost to both physical and emotional well-being—key factors in longevity.
Research supports the idea that dancing boosts healthy Aging. A 2017 study, for instance, published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience found that it can slow age-related decline in brain function, particularly in regions related to memory and balance.
Another study showed that regular dancing reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease by improving heart health, circulation, and endurance.
Beyond its physical benefits, dancing is also a mood booster. The rhythmic movement stimulates the release of endorphins, reducing Stress and symptoms of Depression, while also fostering social connection—a factor strongly linked to increased lifespan. Blue Zones research, which explores longevity hotspots around the world, highlights that people who stay socially engaged and physically active tend to live longer, healthier lives.
All this is to say that dance makes for an enjoyable, uplifting “exercise snack.” As we’ve reported, these short bouts of activity, engaged in throughout the day, can add up and make a significant impact on your health. Cranking up your favorite tunes and breaking into a spontaneous “happy dance” is not only good Exercise, but it also helps to shake off the day’s stresses.
[Read: The big benefits regular exercise brings to longevity]
King Charles’ playlist, which was released to mark Commonwealth Day, featured an eclectic range of artists from Bob Marley to Beyoncé to Grace Jones and Diana Ross.
Charles said in a video message from Buckingham Palace that music, “has that remarkable ability to bring happy memories flooding back from the deepest recesses of our memory, to comfort us in times of sadness, and to take us to distant places.” He adds, “But perhaps, above all, it can lift our spirits to such a degree, and all the more so when it brings us together in celebration. In other words, it brings us joy.”
We couldn’t agree more. If you’re looking for a little royal inspiration, here’s the Monarch’s full playlist, curated for “The King’s Music Room” on Apple Music:
This diverse selection spans genres from reggae and pop to highlife and classical, showcasing the King’s appreciation for music’s universal ability to uplift and connect people across cultures.
In sum, making music and movement a daily habit is a joyful way to stay young at heart —literally and figuratively. So go ahead—jam like a King.
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Content on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns regarding a medical condition.
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