The singer Kesha wrote a very honest and and open article for Elle magazine about her own body battle and how it led to a two month stay in rehab. The press and publications such as the daily mail are very focused and critical about womans bodies and I can't imagine the pressure that must put woman in the spotlight under. The dancer and presenter Kimberly Wyatt also recently spoke out about her refusal to conform to 'skinny' instead choosing the fit and healthy approach to her body. I think Kimberly is an excellent role model for dancers and she looks great.
As a dancer I've had my own body issues over the years, ever since I was a teenager and my body began to change. I've been curvy, skinny and in recent years worked on having a fit and athletic body. This is what works best for me. Exercise helps me to stay balanced and keeps me fit and able to meet the physical demands of my job. It's not always easy to fit exercise in when my schedule is hectic and I'm tired but I do my best to work out 3-5 times a week.
During my years as dancer we were often told to lose weight and I can tell you this shatters your self esteem. I saw one dancer suffer terribly from the disease anorexia and it was horrifying. Dancers who are fit, strong and healthy are more likely to be hired than those who are overweight and underweight. However there are ways to manage it and most choreographers are supportive and encouraging thankfully.
The instagram phenomenon of today and the selfie generation puts an awful lot of pressure on your girls. I see my students affected by this and when they lack confidence in how they look it really upsets me. I tell them they all look great and try my best to build the confidence in all of my pupils. It's vital as parents and teachers we instill a healthy body image in children from a young age.
I'd like to run a programme for girls aged 10-16 focusing on building confidence and self esteem through dance and performance. I'm currently writing a proposal for funding for this and hope the Art's council will consider it and see this as a great idea.
However you look we all know it's what's on the inside that counts.
Love yourself and be kind to yourself!
Wishing you a wonderful weekend
Emily X
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