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Abstract:Overwhelming research suggests dance is the best intervention for preventing dementia. Dance also wins over SSRIs and repetitive, non-dance physical activity in head-to-head studies for treating depression. Grooving with others socially or releasing endorphins by dancing alone in the living room is only part of the power of dance. Taking formal dance classes with the brain demand of constant physical and mental vigilance, as well as memorizing abstract, complex sequences, is even more important for brain health - and is unique to dance. This underlines what Dr. Kathryn Hightower, as a lifelong dancer, has always intuitively known about dance. Combining research with lived experience, Dr. Hightower will discuss why and how to prescribe dance for brain health.

Presenter Bio: Dr. Kathryn Hightower (she/they) focuses on mental health, gender affirming care, pain management, and hormone replacement therapy for all genders. Especially passionate about gender affirming healthcare, she frequently engages in research and public speaking on the topic in order to educate her colleagues on the truth about this vital medicine.

Dr. Hightower received a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University in 2019 and then completed two years of residency through the Institute for Natural Medicine at Emerald City Naturopathic Clinic.
Dr. Hightower models self-compassion and life balance by remaining an active member of the local dance community. She teaches, choreographs, and performs regularly, and is a founding member of Rain City Tappers, a tap dance collective. Her other interests include cooking, crocheting, gardening, and reading.
This presentation is worth 1 Category 1 CE credit for Washington-licensed NDs.
(Originally presented May 1-3, 2026, at WANP's 2026 annual conference.)