The Number On The Scale Doesn't Define Who You Are

Bringing Body Love Into Dance Class: A New Way of Teaching

by Amanda Trusty

We giggle a lot when we talk about our muscles and our imagery, but while we are at the barre and we are dancing, everyone is extremely focused on using their new muscle memory to their advantage. It’s amazing to me to see these girls self-correct themselves without me ever saying “suck it in” or “tuck under.”

All I have to say is, “where’s your tailfeather headed?” and the plié changes drastically. Say, “I can’t see what color your necklace is” to a student, and watch their posture change immediately.

My goal is to teach the girls all the amazing things their bodies can do, and I never bring attention to their weight or their body type. In fact, just this past week, we started a new exercise at the barre where I ask each girl what her favorite part of her body is. Most said legs, some said arms, and next week I’ll ask them for a different one. If we start encouraging these young ladies to love their bodies now, the Photoshopped magazines and the Hollywood red carpet will take a longer time to affect them.

I loved ballet until our was 6 and my instructor said my legs were just too big.

(via bl-ossomed)

and it’s always the ones you love most

Say it out loud!