Self care is a necessity skipped by many University students even before the coronavirus pandemic, but something absolutely essential to practice while self-quarantining and social distancing. Meditation and face masks work for some, but there is one tried and true method that is universal — a good old-fashioned dance party. Here are 20 songs to get your feet moving, your fists pumping and your spirits rising — all from the safety of your own bedroom.
“Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen
After a long day of online classes, you can count on Queen to bring you back to reality. Queue “Don’t Stop Me Now” and let the solo dance party begin.
“Your Love is My Drug” by Kesha
Now that you are good and warmed up, it’s time to take things up a notch. Crank the volume, let your hair down and channel your inner Kesha.
“Applause” by Lady Gaga
Pro tip — for maximum effect, accompany this song with large sunglasses, a scarf to toss behind your shoulder and your best supermodel strut ready to go.
“Watermelon Sugar” by Harry Styles
When it’s time for a change of pace and a full body sway, throw your head back, put your arms up and smile along as Harry Styles tangibly raises the spirits of everyone within earshot.
“Hard Times” by Paramore
In hard times, Hayley Williams always pulls through. She was there for you in your angsty middle school phase and she is here for you now.
“Eenie Meenie” by Justin Bieber and Sean Kingston
“Yummy” can have its moment, but it will never hit as hard as this 2010 masterpiece. For the most nostalgic results, be sure to play the radio version.
“You Belong With Me” by Taylor Swift
The ultimate dance awkwardly and point repeatedly at yourself in front of the mirror song. Grab your hairbrush microphone and your air guitar and go wild.
“Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd
Straight off of the Comm Law TAs’ pre-class playlist. If it boosted morale then, it will boost morale now.
“Juice” by Lizzo
Ya-ya-ee!
“Alejandro” by Lady Gaga
One Gaga anthem wasn’t enough. When the bass drops, you know what to do.
“Don’t Start Now” by Dua Lipa
Although this song does have its own Tik Tok dance, solo dance parties are best left unchoreographed — mosh to the beat of your own drum!
“Nice For What” by Drake
The only instruction is to vibe.
“Scream & Shout” by will.i.am and Britany Spears
Surrender and let this song trigger the catharsis you know you need. Scream and shout and let it all out — and never forget the power of this iconic duo.
“No One” by Alicia Keys
You may be questioning this song’s danceability, but just wait. Soon enough, you’ll be pouring your heart out, unconsciously stomping along with each, “No one.”
“Rock Me” by One Direction
You have already been solo-dance-partying to this song since 2012. Why stop now?
“Don’t Stop the Music” by Rihanna
Is a dance party really a dance party without Rihanna? No — DJ, let it play!
“Time of Our Lives” by Pitbull and Ne-yo
A 2014 gem plucked from the playlist of every public pool party DJ ever — a true banger.
“Countdown” by Beyonce
You could honestly skip this playlist and just listen to “This is Beyonce” on Spotify and end up with similar results, but since you’re here, get your feet moving and your clock arms ticking!
“Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F)” by Katy Perry
The end of the dance party is near, and at this point, you are surely missing your trusty U.Va. dancing buddies. For a glorious three minutes and 51 seconds, let this song take you back to Charlottesville shenanigans.
“Roses - Imanbek Remix” by SAINt JHN, Imanbek
If reminiscing isn’t enough, as a last resort, “Roses - Imanbek Remix” will transport any desperate student back to the sweaty comforts of Trin 3 in an instant. Blast it from the rooftops, jump around aimlessly, wake up family members, do what you have to do — it’s all in the name of self care.