Why The Whole Dancer
There is a huge need for greater awareness of health, wellness, and balanced lifestyle in the dance world. You’re so focused on what goes on in the studio and on stage, that it’s easy to convince yourself that nothing else matters.
The truth is, when you find balance and health in your life, you’ll be a better dancer. As a Holistic Health, Nutrition, and Lifestyle Coach for dancers, I am here to support you.
Here’s my story and why I founded The Whole Dancer:
I studied dance at the school of the Eglevsky Ballet on Long Island. Over the years, I attended summer programs at The Kirov Academy, North Carolina School for the Arts, Boston Ballet, ABT in New York, and Orlando Ballet.
After high school, I studied dance and arts administration at Butler University. Upon graduation, I danced with The Louisville Ballet; then I freelanced in the Boston area. My career ended partly because of an injury and partly because I never worked through my disordered relationship with food and my body.
From student to professional, I found myself constantly struggling with body image, food choices, confidence, and all of my perceived shortcomings as a dancer and artist. I hated what I saw in the mirror; it was not the “ideal” ballet body by any stretch.
There was a nagging (and very real) fear that I could be fired at any moment and might not get another job. I wasn’t confident in my technique or facility, and I consistently felt like my body just wasn’t the right fit. Through all of this, Gilmore Girls provided solace: Rory and Lorelai made me feel less alone. I also used food to push down and ignore my stress and emotions.
With the birth of my daughter in 2019, the importance of this work was only magnified. When I think back to my younger self, I am distraught thinking about my daughter having similarly damaging experiences. I’m more motivated than ever to be a big part of the necessary positive shifts in the dance world. Whether you’re a dancer or dance parent, support from someone who has been in the pre-professional and professional dance world is essential.
Why Health Coaching?
Through all of my struggles as a dancer, I was obsessed with nutrition and dieting. I read so many contradictory things about food and health; I was starved for answers.
In 2009 while I was still dancing, I became one of Whole Foods Market’s first Healthy Eating Specialists trained in Nutritarian Plant Based Nutrition. In 2013, I became a Holistic Health Coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. My own healing required a holistic approach, and so many dancers experience similar food and body hang-ups that Health Coaching addresses so well.
In 2020, to continue to further my knowledge, I attained a Nutrition Coach certification through Precision Nutrition. In 2021 I completed coursework in emotional eating psychology and most recently I completed the Harvard University executive education program on Designing Sustainable Nutrition Plans. In order to serve dancers and the dance community in creative and innovative ways, my studies in nutrition, emotional eating, behavior change, mindset, and psychology are ongoing.
It’s not just about food, but about how you see yourself in the mirror, the ways you’re moving outside of the studio, and the life you’ve created around your training and profession. My approach considers the uniqueness and bio-individuality of each dancer, but guides you through a proven 7 step process to reach your strongest mindset and personal best body in dance.
Through all of my experiences and studies over the years, I achieved a balanced, beautiful, happy life, and I am finally at peace with my body and my dancing. I’m now obsessed with the Pilates Reformer and dancing just for myself. Most importantly, I’m confident in my skin.
Before starting The Whole Dancer, I thought maybe it was just me…maybe I was alone with my struggles. As I talked with more and more dancers, I realized the fears we all encounter are very similar.
I created The Whole Dancer to help you reach your highest potential as a dancer.
Who is this support for?
I’ve worked with aspiring and professional dancers around the world and also retired dancers, serious adult ballet students, and dance teachers. My clients have included dancers from top companies and schools including New York City Ballet, Pacific Northwest Ballet, Miami City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Boston Ballet, Colorado Ballet School, Ballet West Academy, and many many more.
Through individual coaching and group programs ballet dancers, commercial dancers, modern dancers, and ballroom dancers alike have all gained the support they needed to feel more confident and free in their bodies and food choices. There are flexible pricing options available (just ask), and many resources are provided at no – charge in order to support as many dancers as possible to find balance and true happiness as you work towards your dance goals.
What’s Possible?
Through individual coaching and group programs, dancers reach body goals and cultivate positive body image. You can reach peak performance and your personal best body too. When you reach your personal best body with the right mindset, confidence increases exponentially. Get ready to move to the front of the studio feeling happy, healthy, energetic, and self-assured! For client testimonials, click here.
Lots of love!!
ps. If you’d like to stay in the loop and become a part of The Whole Dancer community – submit your email address and receive a FREE Guide to Snacking or a Free Guide to Becoming an Expert on Your Body.
pps. Click here for more info on how to work with me.
Ready to get started today?
Set up a Dancer 1:1 Coaching Consult to see if we’re a good fit.
