Movement Toward Change

“The clearer the image we have of our body, the more easeful and effective we can move.”In this episode we speak Emily Schweitzer on all things Franklin Method. We discuss her journey of healing her own injury, key concepts behind the Franklin Method, what embodiment means to her, and more! About our Guest: Emily is a Social Work Fellow at the Danielsen Institute, a psychodynamically oriented clinic with a focus on spirituality and religion. She holds a masters in social work from Boston College School of Social Work. She is a certified Gyrotonic instructor, pilates mat instructor, and Franklin Method Level 2 Educator. She also completed a 20 hour training from the Trauma Center on Trauma Sensitive Yoga. Emily brings together psychotherapy and movement in her somatic work, and strongly believes that cultivating curiosity and compassion toward oneself can lead to greater freedom, adaptability, and interconnectedness. She is passionate about the mind-body connection and engaging in empowering movement.Emily's Instagram 

"The company I am starting is the company I wish there had been.” In this episode we speak with Elizabeth Mochizuki. We discuss her path as a professional freelance ballet dancer and dance educator, inspirations for starting an Asian American ballet company, challenges faced in this new endeavor,  and more! Elizabeth is a dance educator and artistic director based in Boston, MA. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in American Studies from Tufts University. Elizabeth has danced for a variety of companies including Festival Ballet Providence, State Street Ballet, Ithaca Ballet, and Jose Mateo Ballet Theater. She is currently the ballet division coordinator at Tony Williams Dance Center and Artistic Director of Asian American Ballet Project. Asian American Ballet Project WebsiteAsian American Ballet Project Instagram

“If you are really passionate about doing something, look up the options, and see what is available to you, and go for it!"In this episode we speak with Sarah Parker. We discuss her path to becoming a dance writer,  highlighting important topics through writing, how to pitch an article, choosing a  journalism program, and more. About Sarah: Sarah Parker is a NYC based dancer and choreographer. She holds a BA in Dance from Hofstra University and master's in American Journalism from NYU. Sarah is currently working as the Associate Choreographer of the Broadway revival of Camelot and has had an extensive career performing on Broadway and in National Tours, contemporary dance companies, and TV/Film. Additionally, she is a freelance writer for Dance Magazine, Theater Mania, and Observer.  Sarah's Instagram Sarah's Website

“Becoming a mother has made me more aware of the range of what you can feel as a human.”In this episode we speak with Leslie Frye Maietta. We discuss finding the balance between work and being a mother, the creation of her wellness practice BodyHouse, self care practices that help to ground her, and more. About Leslie: Leslie earned her BFA from The University of the Arts and an MFA from Hollins University | The American Dance Festival. She is also deeply invested in the Somatic Arts and is currently a Pilates and Gyrotonic® practitioner. Leslie's creative and somatic work lives under the umbrella, B O D Y | H O U S E the collective- a project based collective and B O D Y | H O U S E wellness - private somatic training and wellness consultation. Leslie currently serves as Guest Artist/Assistant Professor at Connecticut College and Adjunct Professor at The University of Hartford, Hartt School Dance Division. Most recently, she has become a board member of the Connecticut Dance Alliance. 

"Eat foods that are good for your body and also good for your soul."In this episode we speak with Kate Daley. We discuss finding food freedom as an athlete, fueling to meet nutrient needs, meal prepping/grocery shopping tips while living on a budget and more! About Kate: Kate Daley is an eating disorder and sports dietitian based out of Denver, Colorado. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from the University of Connecticut and is currently working towards her Master's in Counseling Psychology at the University of Denver. At DU, Kate is a member of the Bodies, Eating, and Emotions Lab where she studies weight stigma, trauma, and disordered eating in marginalized populations. While at UConn, she competed in both cross country and track and field. She has worked at EDCare Denver, is a mentor through the Eating Disorder Foundation, and is a writer for Voice in Sport™. Her passion lies in helping those with eating disorders relearn to trust their bodies and find food freedom while continuing to compete in the sport they love. Kate's InstagramEmail Kate: kate@mindbodyendurance.com

"See the bigger picture of where you are in your life, and then I think everything kind of makes sense." In this episode we speak with Amane Takaishi. We discuss her path to becoming a choreographer, teaching at the collegiate level, specific challenges faced during her career, and finding balance through prioritization. About Amane: Amane Takaishi is a dancer, educator, choreographer, and Pilates instructor based in Boston, Massachusetts. She is currently a company member with City Ballet of Boston and on faculty at both Boston College and Boston University. Amane has danced professionally with Eugene Ballet, Ballet Tucson, and A&A Ballet. She holds a BA with Honors in Dance and Performance Studies from Kent University and her masters in education from Bath University. Amane's Instagram! 

“I feel incredibly lucky to be on this journey with people as they inhabit their bodies a little more easily.”  In this episode we speak with David Lobenstine. We discuss the various benefits of massage therapy for dancers, finding a mindful approach to at home muscular skeletal relief, therapeutic applications of breath work, and more. About David:  David Lobenstine is a licensed massage therapist, continuing education teacher, freelance writer, and course creator based in NYC. He is a graduate of Vassar College and the Swedish Institute of Health Sciences. David has worked with a variety of performers and athletes. He teaches continuing education courses both around the country and online, at bodybrainbreath.com. David is the co-author of Third Edition of the Pre and Perinatal Massage Therapy and has his own private practice, Full Breath Massage. David's Website David's Continuing Education Courses Follow David on Instagram! 

"Giving people agency is what I feel like is the power in a somatic teaching experience.” In this interview we speak with Emily Relyea-Spivack. We discuss how a series of injuries led her to begin a Pilates practice, challenges faced as a freelance artist,  the creation of her online Pilates platform, and more!About Emily: Emily is a professional Dancer and Pilates Instructor currently based in the greater Albany area. Emily was introduced to the Pilates method as a means of rehabilitation after undergoing bilateral knee surgeries. Emily completed her first comprehensive Pilates certification with Polestar Pilates in 2015 and then bridged with Alycea Ungaro's Real Pilates Teacher Training certification in 2020. She has also completed many continuing education courses including Pilates Adaptations for People with Scoliosis, Pilates for Hip & Knee Pathologies, Pre & Post Natal Pilates Workshops, as well as industry-specific forums. Emily is currently in her 2nd season with the Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company in addition to running her online Pilates platform, Emily RS Pilates. Emily's Website

“I would like to see a lot of these healing modalities as part of our healthcare system. I would like see healthcare being more accessible.” In this episode we speak with Megan Guinta. We discuss the benefits of the Gyrotonic ® method for both dancers and athletes, self care practices, how we can make movement more accessible, and goals for both the future of movement and healthcare. We also dive into finding balance and overcoming challenges as a dancer and fitness professional. About Megan: Megan, a New Jersey native, was dancing as soon as she could walk and has been passionate about movement ever since.  She was introduced to GYROTONIC® and Pilates exercise at age 13, which was crucial cross-training for her as an aspiring dancer.  These methods built strength and flexibility, helped manage and prevent injuries, and enabled her to earn a BFA in dance at SUNY Purchase, one of the nation's top dance programs. Megan also studied at Beijing Dance Academy in China and has toured in Canada, Sri Lanka, and all over the United States. She teaches Gyrotonic ®, Gyrokinesis ®, and mat Pilates throughout NYC. Megan's Website Megan's Instagram

“Dance has always been something I have gravitated to, to understand the world around me.” In this episode we speak with Lauren Cox. We discuss what inspired her to begin a career in commercial dance, how she built a schedule as a freelance dance artist, and cultivating healthy relationships in the field. We also talk about her transition from freelance artist to jazz professor. About Lauren: Lauren is an accomplished poet, story-teller, and professor of Jazz Dance at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She holds a B.A. in Sociology from San Francisco State University. Lauren has been on faculty at Joffrey Ballet School Jazz & Contemporary, The Ailey School Junior Division, and the co-creator and lead choreographer for Kaimera Productions' SPACES. Her choreography has been commissioned by many institutions such as LaGuardia Performing Arts Center and Harlem Arts Festival. As a professional performer, she has taken part in a wide variety of commercial and contemporary works both live and on television. 

“When you are at a place of your lowest point, that is when you have the most choices available to you, that is where you can look around and see, because there is no other way to go but up." In this episode we speak with Kurt Douglas. We discuss what drew him to the Limón technique and the principles behind it, reframing moments of failure, finding a community that serves you, leading by example as a teacher, and more. About Kurt:  Kurt is currently an Associate Professor of Dance at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee. He received his BFA in Dance from the Boston Conservatory and an MFA in Dance from Hollins University. He has danced professionally with the Jose Limón Dance Company, Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Ballet Hispanico, Lar Lubovitch, and Aszure Barton and Artists. Kurt is a reconstructor of Limón's work and on the board of directors for the Limón Dance Company. Additionally, Kurt has conducted Limón Dance workshops both in the US and abroad, and is on faculty at both Limón for Kids and the Limón Institute.If you have further questions for Kurt, you can reach him through email at kdouglas@berklee.edu. Support our podcast: https://www.patreon.com/movementtowardchange Movementtowardchange.org Instagram: @movementtowardchange lemon  Verified   Open in Google Translate•FeedbackPeople also askWhat is the meaning of Limon?Is Limon a country?What is Limon known for?What language is Limon?FeedbackLimón

"I think that Gyrotonic ® and Gyrokinesis ® really appeals to dancers because it utilizes the body in a similar way that dance does. So it allows the body to move fluidity through all ranges and directions in non-linear patters.” In this episode we speak with Samantha Daly all things Gyrotonic ® and Gyrokinesis ® including the path to becoming an instructor, various types of courses offered, making the shift to virtual teaching, how the method can be a form of rehabilitation for dancers, and more. About Samantha: Samantha is a graduate of the dance program with Alonzo King LINES Ballet at Dominican University of California. She is a certified Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis instructor and has taught at Marin Gyrotonic, Spiral Studio, and the Seed Center. She currently teaches at San Francisco Gyrotonic in addition to a variety of virtual classes. Samantha's Website: spiralingsam.comSamantha's Instagram: @spiralingsamSupport our podcast: https://www.patreon.com/movementtowardchange Movementtowardchange.org Instagram: @movementtowardchange 

“Your dance career depends on your kindness with yourself.”In this episode we speak with Thomas Vacanti. We discuss the principles of the  safe barre technique, finding a cross training routine that connects to our dance practice, carving out time for rest, finding mindfulness practices that bring us inward, and more. About Thomas: Tom is the dance program director and an associate professor of dance at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He has a BS in Dance from Skidmore College, an MFA in Performance and Choreography from Smith College, and a Certificate Degree in Costume Design from Boston University. Tom has danced professionally with The Florida Ballet, Tampa Ballet, Colorado Ballet, Ballet Mississippi, Ballet Michigan and Ballet de Panama. He was also chosen by Jacob's Pillow, to represent the USA in their Russian/American Exchange Program. Tom is currently co-artistic director of Pioneer Valley Ballet in addition to being certified in the safe-barre technique. Thomas's Website: thomasvacanti.comSafe Barre: www.maisonmunz.com/Support our podcast: https://www.patreon.com/movementtowardchange Movementtowardchange.org Instagram: @movementtowardchange 

"You learn to recognize patterns and habits that are interfering with your ability to move and think." In this episode we speak with Shannon Lee Jones. We speak about the importance of staying present and slowing down, techniques to calm the nervous system through awareness and connection, distributing tension in the body, and noticing inefficient movement patterns. We also discuss how one can distribute tension in the body, and take care of themselves in order to help others. About Shannon: Shannon is an Alexander Technique teacher based in Boston, Massachusetts. She is currently an assistant Professor of Dance at the Boston Conservatory teaching Alexander Technique. She received her teacher's certification with Tommy Thompson at the Alexander Technique Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Alexander Technique International. Prior to moving to Boston, Shannon worked as a professional actress both on Broadway and touring nationally.Shannon's Email: sjones@berklee.eduSupport our podcast: https://www.patreon.com/movementtowardchange Movementtowardchange.org Instagram: @movementtowardchange 

“What can I do to make sure I feel good, and I feel nourished, and I feel strong?”In this episode we speak with holistic health coach Becca Scott. We discuss what it means to look at your life from a holistic viewpoint, focusing on how one feels instead of appearance, checking in to see if your goals are serving you, and more. About Becca: Becca received her BFA in Dance from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and her certification in holistic health & nutrition from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. She currently has a virtual health coaching practice and is passionate about helping individuals gain a better understanding of how to take care of themselves so that they can feel their best and take care of what matters most to them. Becca's Website: thisisbeccascott.comBecca's Instagram: @coachingwithbecs Support our podcast: https://www.patreon.com/movementtowardchange Movementtowardchange.org Instagram: @movementtowardchange

“I can be a human who dances and not just a dancer who happens to be a human” In this episode we speak with Daisy Kate Jacobson. We discuss her journey from dancing at Juilliard to a professional career in dance, the importance of listening to our bodies, navigating injuries, discovering a work/life balance and more. About Daisy: Daisy grew up in Manhattan Beach, CA where she trained at South Bay Ballet. She received her BFA in Dance from The Juilliard School in 2017 and joined LA Dance Project soon after. At LA Dance Project, Daisy has performed new works by leading choreographers such as Benjamin Millepied, Justin Peck, Shannon Gillen, Kyle Abraham, and Ohad Naharin. Follow Daisy on Instagram @Daisykate_jSupport our podcast: https://www.patreon.com/movementtowardchange Movementtowardchange.org Instagram: @movementtowardchange

“I want each kid to leave the workshops feelings invincible and amazing”In this episode we speak Boston-based dance and fitness instructor, Taylor Cocco. We discuss the importance of creating a safe space within the classroom, helping students to navigate the pressures and aesthetic norms within dance, exercising for strength instead of appearance goals, and encouraging dancers to trust their bodies. Taylor also shares with us a new female empowerment workshop she has created, “U-CAN.” About Taylor: Taylor is a passionate and dedicated individual who has been in the education space for the past 9 years. She has a degree from Dean College in the Arts as well as Suffolk University where she studied public relations and communications. Over the past few years, Taylor has found herself working within the school systems, theater groups, and dance studios all around the New England area. She is currently a judge for local dance competitions, a dance educator, 305 fitness instructor and just found her own company, “U CAN.”U-Can Academy Website: u-can-academy.comU-Can Academy Instagram: @u.can.academySupport our podcast: https://www.patreon.com/movementtowardchange Movementtowardchange.org Instagram: @movementtowardchange

“It's about learning how to improve our function which has to do with how to function as a whole person.”In this episode we speak with Fritha Pengelly. We discuses what the Feldenkrais method is, the various ways in which it can be beneficial for dancers, working with instead of against ourselves, creating more ease in our actions, finding awareness in are movement patterns, and more. About Fritha Pengelly:  Fritha received her M.F.A. in dance with a focus on anatomy and physiology from the University of Washington. She is a guild certified Feldenkrais practitioner, a Certified Ideal Organization and Profound Strength Practitioner, and a Certified Emotional Freedom Technique Practitioner based in Northampton, MA. She has over 30 years of dance and movement experience performing with Doug Elkins Dance Company, The Chamber Dance Company, David Neumann, and Wire Monkey Dance.Fritha's Website: feldenkraisandmovementarts.com/Support our podcast: https://www.patreon.com/movementtowardchange Movementtowardchange.org Instagram: @movementtowardchange

“Like a musician understands the importance of silence, a dancer must understand the importance of stillness, and yoga can open us up to that aspect of dance.” ⁣⁣In this episode we speak with Tai Jimenez. We discuss the benefits of yoga for dancers, beginning a meditation practice, reaching a flow state of movement, and finding happiness within limitations. Tai also shares challenges that she has faced during her professional career and the creation of a movement meditation called soft pop. ⁣⁣About Tai: Tai is a Professor of Dance at the Boston Conservatory teaching ballet technique. Tai has been a principal dancer with both Dance Theater of Harlem and Boston Ballet. She is also a certified yoga instructor teaching at both JP Yoga and Raquel Mara Movement Collective. She has created a movement meditation called Soft Pop. Additionally, Tai writes about dance, life, and spirituality on her blog taijimenez.com.Follow Tai on Instagram: taipiyungjimenezTai's Blog: taijimenez.comTake class with Tai!: https://www.jpcentreyoga.com/https://www.raquelmarrayoga.com Support our podcast: https://www.patreon.com/movementtowardchange Movementtowardchange.org Instagram: @movementtowardchange

“The pursuit of being anti-racist is a living state of being.”In this episode we speak with Dominque Dempsey. We discuss dance as a means of cross-cultural communications, embodied knowledge, and a soft-power. We also speak about ways to create a level playing field in dance classrooms, the importance of understanding the history of dance forms, and not placing an emphasis on any one style being the foundation of all dance. About Dominque: Dominique also known as the dancing diplomat is a student- researcher, choreographer, innovator and collaborator. She is currently a senior at American University Double majoring in international relations and dance. She is extremely passionate about foreign policy, international arts advocacy and dance accessibility. Dominique founded AU's chapter of movement exchange which strives to offer accessible dance classes to youth in the local DMV community and to those abroad. Follow Dominque on Instagram: @ddomodd Support our podcast: https://www.patreon.com/movementtowardchange Movementtowardchange.org Instagram: @movementtowardchange

“Life is about staying in the flow, regardless of how the wave comes and hits you.” In this episode we speak with Gianni Di Marco. We discuses his experience teaching adaptive dance to children with down syndrome and autism, challenging and rewarding aspects when teaching the adaptive population, shifting norms within ballet, letting life lead us, finding motivation during challenging times and more. About Gianni: Gianni is a professor of dance at the Boston Conservatory teaching ballet technique. He founded the Adaptive Dance program with Michelina Cassella, a program for children with Down syndrome and autism, at Boston Ballet Center for Dance Education. He then started the Step by Step! Program for children with autism at the Berklee College of Music Institute for Arts Education and Special Needs. Gianni has danced professionally with many ballet companies, including the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Boston Ballet, and Festival Ballet Providence. If you have further questions for Gianni, you can contact him through our website. Support our podcast: https://www.patreon.com/movementtowardchangeMovementtowardchange.org Instagram: @movementtowardchange

“Being in control of your eating, actually means being able to eat flexibly and spontaneously without denying yourself certain foods, without feeling guilty after eating.” In this episode we speak with Catherine Drury, LCSW. We speak about common causes of eating disorders and various treatment modalities, how and when to seek help for an eating disorder, working towards a more positive body image, and more. About Catherine: Catherine is a licensed clinical social worker in the state of New York. She has her Masters of Science in Social Work from Columbia University and has additional training in Enhanced Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Eating Disorders, Behavioral Activation Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy. Catherine specializes in supporting dancers and has given workshops and lectures to many dance institutions throughout New York such as the American Ballet Theater Studio company, The Ailey School, Princeton Ballet School, Gibney Dance, and Harkness Center for Dance Injuries. If you have further questions for Catherine or would like to schedule an appointment you can contact her through her website at http://www.catherinedrury.com. Support our podcast: https://www.patreon.com/movementtowardchangeMovementtowardchange.org Instagram: @movementtowardchange

"My original mission was to make people feel less alone in their experiences, and I love the fact that it does that for me as I am creating this project” ” In this episode we speak with Leal Zielinska. We discuss removing the stigma around mental health, self care practices, addressing mental health within dance schools and companies, resources for mental health support, and more. About Leal Zielinska: Leal studied at the Codarts Rotterdam Dance Academy and is a graduate of the Independent Program at the Ailey School in New York City. She has danced professionally with Sidra Bell Dance New York and was featured on the cover of Dance Magazine in January 2018. Leal is currently an Artistic Associate at the Gibney Company where she is the founder of the Okay, Let’s Unpack This Initiative, working to normalize the conversation of mental health within the dance community. Contact Info: okayokayokay.org movementtowardchange.orgInstagram: @movementtowardchange

"Part of the growth of an artist is tolerating the uncertainties and letting there be a little more flow” In this episode we speak with Dr. Miriam Rowan. We discuss common mental health concerns in dancers, entering the flow state, being mind over doing mind, and finding your own self direction. Additionally, we speak about how to know if a therapist is a good fit, indications to reach out for support, and mental health resources. About Dr. Miriam Rowan: Dr. Rowan is a former professional dancer with the San Francisco ballet. She is currently a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in performing artists and athletes. Dr. Rowan is an instructor of psychology at Harvard Medical School and practices at both McClean hospital and through private practice.Additional Resources: https://actorsfund.org/services-and-programs/dancers-resource https://www.iadms.org/default.aspxNational Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1.800.273.8255National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1.800.656.4673The Emily Program Eating Disorder Hotline: 1.888.364.5977insighttimer.comcalm.com

“When a dancer has support, she is much more likely to move forward into a career in dance that is sustainable, positive, joyful, and happy." In this episode we speak with Jess Spinner. We discuss creating a balanced lifestyle that supports our dancing, developing a healthy body image, creating time for self care, fueling during busy dance days, and being an advocate for our own health and well-being. About Jess: Jess studied dance and arts administration at Butler University. She danced with The Louisville Ballet and freelanced throughout the Boston Area. Jess is a certified Health Coach through the Institute of Integrative Nutrition and has a Precision Nutrition Certification with a focus in Sports Nutrition. She is the founder of The Whole Dancer where she is a health and lifestyle coach for dancers. The Whole Dancer Instagram: @thewholedancer The Whole Dancer Website: thewholedancer.comBest Body Program Waitlist: thewholedancer.com/waitlist movementtowardchange.orgFollow us on instagram @movementtowardchange

“How we approach dance with regularity and consistency, we want to approach health that way, and especially our diet. We need consistent energy.” In this episode we speak with Marie Scioscia. We speak about the reasons to seek the help of a dietician, importance of a balanced diet for sustainable energy, intuitive eating, opting out of diet culture, possible indications of an eating disorder, avoiding the influences of social media on diet and exercise and more. Link to purchase Marie's handbook "Eat Right, Dance Right": https://www.cinchnutrition.com/store.html#!/c/0Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: https://www.eatright.org/About Marie: Marie is registered dietician based in New York City and former Luigi trained dancer. She has her masters in clinical nutrition and is a certified personal trainer through the American Council on exercise. Marie is currently the nutritionist for the Alvin Ailey School and has worked with the New York City Ballet wellness group. She has lectured for the Complexions Contemporary Ballet and Martha Graham School and has written for both Dance Spirit and Pointe Magazine. Marie has a private practice for dancers and non-dancers in both New York and New Jersey. Additionally, Marie has recently published a handbook for dancers titled “Eat Right, Dance Right” based on her continuous work in the dance world.

“If you can be fascinated by your own technique, your own artistry, the different tones of the music you are hearing…your mind will naturally go to that zone of focus." In this episode we speak with Kirsten Kemp. We discuss shifting the mindset for optimal performance, transitioning to a career outside of dance, redefining success, creating achievable goals, connecting to the joy of dance, and more. About Kirsten: Kirsten is a mindset coach for ballet dancers based in Austin, Texas. She has a variety of certifications from the International Board of Coaches and Practitioners and a BFA in Ballet from the University of Utah. Kirsten is a former professional dancer with the Oklahoma City Ballet and the creator of TwinTalkBallet, an online community of over 20,000 dancers. She is also a ballet instructor on faculty at Balance Dance Studios, in addition to guest teaching across the US, and instructing many students privately. Website: https://kirstenkemp.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/twintalksballetInstagram: @twintalksballetmovementtowardchange.orgInstagram: @movementtowardchange

“You have so much power to be healthy, every human being, that is your birthright.”In this episode we speak with Marcus Schulkind. We discuss the fundamental concepts of acupuncture, meridians of the body, lifestyle changes to keep the qi in balance, being proactive about our health, and more. If you have further questions for Marcus or would like to schedule an appointment you can contact him through his website, www.marcusschulkind.org. About Marcus: Marcus has been a dancer, teacher, and choreographer for over 50 years. He is currently a professor of dance at the Boston Conservatory teaching ballet and rehabilitation classes. Marcus is also an acupuncturist based in Brookline, Massachusetts and a former clinical supervisor at New England Acupuncture School. He is one of the founders of Green Street studios in Cambridge, MA and has led his own dance company in both New York and Cambridge.

“It is not failure if it doesn’t work, it just means that the game plan was not set up in a way that created a path to success” In this episode we speak with Kelsey Griffith. We discuss the importance of strengthening the mind as a dancer, an approach to realistic goal setting, strategies to deal with performance anxiety, using mental imagery to improve our performance, and more. If you have further questions or would like to schedule an appointment, you can contact Kelsey through the Micheli Center website: www.themichelicenter.com. Micheli Center instagram: @michelicenterAbout Kelsey: Kelsey is a Performance Enhancement & Rehab Specialist at The Micheli Center for Sports Injury Prevention, an affiliate of Boston Children’s Hospital–Division of Sports Medicine in Waltham, MA. She received her Bachelors of Arts in Dance from Muhlenberg College, a masters in sport and exercise psychology from Springfield College, and has been a dancer her whole life. She has worked with the NCAA Division III collegiate level, Massachusetts Olympic Development elite soccer program, and with Broadway performers.

“As soon as we feel comfortable that this is what my body does now, we get to actually experience it and do it” In this episode we speak with Brian McGinnis. We discuss the benefits of massage therapy for dancers, establishing a self care routine, shifting the paradigm in our view of stretching, the mind/body connection, allowing space for personal change and more. If you have further questions for Brian or would like to schedule an appointment you can contact him through email at briandavidmcginnis@hotmail.com. About Brian: Brian is a massage therapist in Boston, Massachusetts and Professor of Dance at the Boston Conservatory. He has a BFA in Dance from the Juilliard school and a Masters in Dance from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Brian has danced with a variety of companies including Lar Lubovitch, Elisa Monte, David Parsons and Jacqueline Buglisi. Website: movementtowardchange.org Instagram: @movementtowardchange

“The mind is your greatest ally in the studio or your biggest enemy…Success comes down to, is your mind on your side, is it supporting you, is it working for you?” In this episode we speak with Elizabeth Sullivan. We discuss being deeply engaged in your personal process as a dancer, choosing the feedback that will serve you, opting out of competition, dealing with rejection, the importance of speaking kindly to yourself, and more. If you have further questions or would like to schedule a session with Elizabeth, you can contact her through her website at easullivan.com. About Elizabeth: Elizabeth is a success coach and wellness mentor for dancers based in NYC and around the world. She danced for both the Cleveland and Boston Ballets. Elizabeth earned her degree from Dartmouth University and her masters in Arts Administration from Columbia University. She has her certification in coaching on nutrition from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and on the science of motivation and coaching from Wellcoaches school of Coaching.Website: movementtowardchange.orgInstagram: @movementtowardchange

“Gyrotonic ® is three-dimensional so you are moving in circles and you are spiraling your spine and you are spiraling your head and you are spiraling your fingers and you are spiraling your arms and your legs and your feet, and everything is in spirals. Which is a little bit more to me, as we are as humans.” In this episode we speak with Adriana Suarez. Adriana is a Professor of Dance at the Boston Conservatory, a certified instructor of both Gyrotonic ® and Gyrokinesis ® methods, and a former principal dancer with the Boston Ballet. We discuss the ways in which Gyrotonic ® is a beneficial form of cross training, the importance of body awareness and proper alignment during movement, additional forms of cross training for dancers, a way to re-imagine our warm up and cool down and more. If you have further questions for Adriana or would like to schedule a Gyrotonic ® or Gyrokinesis ® lesson, you can reach her at asuarez@berklee.edu. Instagram: @movementtowardchange Website: movementtowardchange.org

“Stop worrying about what your neighbor is doing, and just think about yourself. Think about the positive goals you are achieving. Dance training is training, and you are never going to be perfect”In this episode we speak with Michelina Cassella Kulak, PT. Mickey is currently the senior dance specialist at The Micheli Center in Waltham, Massachusetts and has been the director of physical therapy at both the Boston Ballet Company and School and Boston Children’s Hospital. In this episode we speak about muscles that are weak or tight in dancers, a proper warmup/cool down, recommended forms of cross training, the importance of rest days, and how to approach dance technique during the adolescent growth spurt. For further questions or to schedule an appointment with Mickey you can find her information on The Micheli Center website: https://www.themichelicenter.com Instagram: @movementtowardchangeWebsite: movementtowardchange.org

"At Girl Fit Physical Therapy, it's really important to us to teach you how to take care of your own body, to understand your own pain or injury, and to know how to prevent that injury from happening."In this episode we speak with Kate Hamilton, PT, DPT. Kate is the founder of Girl Fit Physical Therapy in Newton, MA which is dedicated to providing health, wellness, and injury prevention for girls and women. She is also a physical therapist for Team USA Figure Skating and spent several years as a physical therapist on traveling Broadway shows. In this episode we discuss how to deal with a dance injury, safely improving flexibility, the signs of injury, maintaining our mental health and more! For further questions or to schedule an appointment with Kate: https://www.girlfitrocks.com GirlFit Instagram: @girlfitrocks Instagram: @movementtowardchangeWebsite: movementtowardchange.org