Steamboat Dance Theatre is offering opportunities for people to support their mental well-being through new, free Movement Experience classes at three levels of dance sessions.

Through a grant from the LOR Foundation in Wyoming, the nonprofit dance program is offering three ways to connect with movement therapy including community support groups, sessions for groups at their locations and one-on-one sessions for individual support.

Two free, community support dance sessions are starting this month for participants 14 and older including at 4:30 p.m. Fridays starting this week at the dance studio at 1955 Bridge Lane in Steamboat Springs and on Thursdays starting 1:15 p.m. Oct. 23 at Old Town Hot Springs.

No prior dance training is required, and participants are invited to move at their own pace in a “supportive space designed to nurture well-being, grounding and connection,” according to Steamboat Dance Theatre Executive Director Lori Biagi.

“Research continues to show that movement is one of the most powerful tools for mental health,” Biagi said. “Studies have found that dance and somatic movement can reduce symptoms of depression by up to 47% and significantly lower cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. Beyond stress relief, dance strengthens the brain-body connection, builds resilience and fosters a sense of belonging.”

More information is available under “Dance Happenings” calendar online at Steamboatdancetheatre.org.