Life throws a lot at you, every twist and turn can be something new, but is also is an opportunity for new experiences.

So far 2017, has felt this way. However, I don’t think I would be able to feel like I am keeping my head “above water” if I didn’t have dance in my life. Ever since I was little, dance and more specifically ballet has been my cure-all. No matter how I was feeling any given day, once I stepped into the studio, any worries, doubts or stresses would melt away. At the ballet barre is where I find my center, figuratively and literally.  I feel at peace there and I have come to realize I wouldn’t be who I am today if it weren’t for dance.

Dance is my outlet. It has the power to ground me and to help me let go of whatever might be holding me back. Especially during pivotal decision times of adulthood, dance has kept me sane.

These past two months have been filled with life changes, moving to our new place, starting the next season’s solos for my students, teaching at multiple summer sessions, preparing for the next dance year, forwarding myself in my career, and sharing in friends’ life changing times of their own. This morning I was lying in bed, half-awake and realized that if I didn’t have dance along with a combination of a strong support system all of these accomplishments would not be possible. I am so fortunate to be surrounded by people who care about me, from my family and friends to my bosses and co-workers. Everyone seems to be there every step of the way and understands that the path I have chosen for myself is one that thrives under support.

So what are my takeaways from all of this?

• Find something that helps you stay grounded by allowing you to let go of fears and doubts. Look for a space where you can de-stress.

• Search for something that inspires you to continue to grow and pushes you to be better. It might be dance or it might be something entirely different. Also, in my experience whatever this thing is it can be ever changing or it can be one thing that is your constant throughout your whole life, like dance has been for me.

• Support systems are key! Friends, family, co-workers, anyone can be this for you. I find that having someone who listens and I can vent to during stressful times and during those non-stressful times too is pivotal in keeping a clear mind.

Remember to always find those moments of fun, and to keep dancing, moving and grooving.