"Like many people in the performing arts, dancers are under a lot of stress. Not only do dancers have a difficult lifestyle with rehearsals, auditions, and side jobs, they also face themselves in the mirror every day in the constant effort to improve their technique. This grueling schedule and unrelenting self-critique can leave even the most energetic person worn out and exhausted. According to the Wellness Tip on stress, stress has three stages. The first stage “often begins with feeling overwhelmed by too many demands on your time and energy”. For dancers, who are often perfectionists, this can be seen as a sign that they just need to work harder. By ignoring this important warning sign, they are setting themselves up for burnout later on. Dancers are often taught to ignore pain and fatigue, but pushing through the fatigue can cause dancers to progress into the second stage where “the constant onslaught of stress hormones begins to take its toll”. Ignoring these early warning signs can have serious consequences like changes in eating, mood, and sleep. A prolonged state of stress leads to the last stage, which is total exhaustion. In this state, the body’s immune system is compromised, which can cause constant sickness and depression. Luckily, stress can be managed by maintaining a manageable schedule with specific times to relax and recharge. Short breaks, yoga, and massage can help to reduce stress. Ultimately, the dancer needs to put just as much effort into relaxing as she puts into dancing."

-written by Ellen & taken from her new blog about

health, stress mgmt, and dance!

(she is currently dancing at the
Alvin Ailey School in New York City;
also my bbf since 4th grade)