Dance Energy Studios

Dancer’s Wellbeing – Coming out of a Pandemic

Nicola Taylor — Thu, 20 Aug 2020 21:00:27 +0000

As humans, the importance of being in touch with your wellbeing is often thrown around loosely, but it is not a one size fits all approach. It is so important to have your priorities set and a lifestyle balance that suits YOU as a dancer. With the disruption of Covid-19, it is normal to feel like your routine and balance has been thrown; it’s also important to remember that you are not the only one feeling like this. A change in routine and priorities, doesn’t mean a pause, you just need the tools to return back to normality.

As a young dancer, balancing training with school, work, friends, family and other hobbies can be difficult. With overwhelming deadlines and commitments, it can often be easy to lose sight of your own wellbeing at the best of times. It’s incredibly important to ensure you are making time for yourself and checking in daily with how you’re feeling both mentally and physically. Creating an awareness of your mind and body is vital in recognising when you need to rest and recharge and when you’re at peak performance to really maximise progress from your dance training, without burning yourself out.

The introduction of online school and dancing created a loss of social interaction and therefore motivation for most activities; as young people thrive off and are quickly influenced by their peers’ energy. Feelings of loneliness and isolation are completely normal, but it is important to keep in touch with these feelings and ensure you are doing enough to help them. Returning back to normal is exciting but can be overwhelming after so much time alone. Check in with yourself – are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you making time for yourself? Are you trying to do too much too quickly?

The best way to navigate a return to normality is to live by the rule of 3, and understand the importance of time management. So, at the beginning of the week, evaluate everything you have coming up – deadlines, tasks, assessments, training, etc. And organise them into a priority list. Each day choose 3 things you are going to focus on/complete for the day. Instead of trying to cram as many half done tasks as you can every day, designate a day and time to complete them in order of priority. For example, if you start dancing straight after school on a Monday, then your training is your priority for that day, so you could aim to get more schoolwork done in school hours, rather than giving yourself work to come home to. If you have a day where you don’t have dancing, designate it to study and/or have free time, depending on urgency. Ensure you are giving yourself time to unwind, eat and relax before studying after school – but don’t use this time to procrastinate, as this will increase your stress levels when you don’t get the tasks finished.

Most importantly, don’t put excess pressure on yourself! At the end of the day, you’re catching up on lost time so be sure to give yourself credit for the things you ARE doing. Make time for what matters to you, whether that be hanging out with friends, going to the beach or riding your bike – do it! Stick by the rule of 3 each day and evaluate your success at the end of the week. If you’re still feeling under the pump, maybe there are certain things you need to focus on more often, it all comes down to what works for YOU.

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August 2020 Newsletter

Claire — Fri, 14 Aug 2020 05:02:07 +0000

Check out our August Newsletter below!

Take a moment to grab a cup of coffee, have a read & make a note of important upcoming dates and events. Make sure to check out the wonderful photos, celebrate the achievements of our talented students & see what is igniting us at Dance Energy Studios this month!

Download (PDF, 2.96MB)

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The Benefits of Acrobatics

Nicola Taylor — Thu, 06 Aug 2020 21:00:00 +0000

Acrobatics is easily one of the most diverse components of dance that is not only visually appealing when performed correctly but much like ballet – an incredibly strong foundation for all styles of dance. There is a lot of grey area about the factors and benefits, and also the correlation and difference between acrobatics and gymnastics.

Whilst acrobatics is often considered a subdivision of gymnastics – the focus is centred around contortion and tricks that defy gravity with smooth transitions, whereas gymnastics takes the direction of tumbling and tricks performed in straight lines with a clear beginning and finish. Whilst both styles require immense strength and control, it is important to understand the different pathways they take and how acrobatics is more beneficial in a dance studio environment.

Acrobatics has endless benefits for all ages including building strength, flexibility, technique, body and spatial awareness and most importantly – friendships. It also enhances the body’s balance and agility and promotes proper posture and coordination that benefit an everyday lifestyle as well as within dance. As a young person and/or dancer, studying acrobatics promotes not only healthy training habits but also skills surrounding focus, concentration and goal setting.

It’s extremely important to understand how the human body works and operates and how to reach your limits as an individual, as all bodies are different and have different natural abilities. This is where Acrobatics steps in. Becoming more aware of your body and its capabilities will lead to creating a positive relationship with your own strengths and weaknesses. For example, some kids may be naturally super flexible but lack the core and shoulder strength to safely and technically execute tricks; then some kids may be naturally strong but struggle when it comes to limber activities. Both aspects play a key role in acrobatics and dance, so body and spatial awareness is crucial in identifying where certain strengths and weaknesses apply to progress in ALL aspects of dance.

With this understanding of capabilities as an individual comes goal setting and creating healthy training habits to ensure these goals are met. It is understanding the balance between consistency and overdoing-it, and that all elements go hand in hand with stepping stones. For example, understanding that if I can’t do a handstand, I can’t learn a walkover yet. In saying this, if I want to learn a walkover, I go back to the beginning. I do my strength warm up, I practice my handstands and bridge and I kick that goal when I have the strength behind me. I can then take this goal setting and the healthy habits I’ve created and implement these strategies into everyday life such as school and work.

Following on from goal setting, we delve into the correlation between stretching and focus/concentration. Getting into a routine of the stretching aspects of acrobatics calms the mind and releases physical and mental tension. This helps to not only focus on the class being taken as a whole but increases the ability to focus on the task e.g. trick or conditioning exercise being taught to maximise progress and understanding. A handy tip – stretching for 5-10 mins as soon as you wake up releases physical and mental tension to maximise brain activity and concentration for the day ahead. All in all, practicing and training in acrobatics has massive benefits to positively impact all physical and mental aspects of dance and life.

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Upskilling Through a Pandemic

Nicola Taylor — Thu, 23 Jul 2020 21:00:00 +0000

When Covid-19 roared out of nowhere, the world took a major hit and feelings of uncertainty, loss and grief were most prominent. With businesses closing doors – some forever – schools transferring to at-home learning and a huge loss of extra activities, we were all forced to adapt to changes and shift our perspective on the importance of everyday things we once took for granted.

From my personal perspective, this pandemic has actually increased my workload and provided me with many opportunities to upskill and while this has been challenging, I am incredibly grateful.

Coping with change is something I have admittedly not always been great with but with no other choice I have embraced new ways of doing things with open arms. Through the transition from in studio to online dancing, I have learnt new skills in the areas of filming and editing, Zoom live meeting platform, Teachable online lecture and class creation, Canva graphic designing, reception and admin experience and lastly – blogging. Whilst gaining knowledge in all these areas, increasing hours and juggling 3 other studios and a weekend job, I have learnt the importance of balance and ‘me time’. In order to make the most of the experience and keep motivated whilst working long days and meeting deadlines, I found it crucial to ensure I make time for non work related things that keep me sane. Whether it be going for a surf, a walk or reading a good book with a good coffee – I learnt that it’s the little things that make a big difference.

In order to have a successful online transition, it was all hands on deck. Days consisted of filming extra class content, editing and loading to our online platform, loading graphics, keeping socials updated and planning classes around our new friend ‘Zoom’. Staying on top of weekly loading and editing was challenging but vital in ensuring students remained engaged. Choreography was adapted to fit not only the screen we were teaching through but the spaces the kids had to learn in, most commonly a small bedroom or living space. This required us to challenge ourselves to create new content and keep it interesting with limitations.

Going from only teaching 3 hours a week, to working 10-12 hour days, 6-7 days a week has been, and continues to be, a learning experience. I am taking every day as a new day to grow and continue to broaden my horizons. At only 20 years old, I am utilising every opportunity presented to gain knowledge and new skills to have the ability to apply them to future endeavours.

Whilst I have been faced with massive changes and challenges and hope we never have to experience another pandemic; I am grateful for everything it has led me to learn and how it has shaped my outlook moving forward into the rest of my 20’s.

I know I will never take a day off or sitting down in a café for my coffee for granted again!

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Returning to Dance After What Seems like Forever

Rachel-Olivia Foster-Jones — Thu, 09 Jul 2020 21:07:35 +0000

Lately, we’ve been hearing a lot of to-and-fro news about the Covid-19 situation which can bring a sense of uncertainty and worry to say the least. But let’s not focus on the negative here. Let’s take a look at what’s happening right now that’s positive, uplifting and brings a smile to your dial.

RETURNING TO DANCE!

There you go! That definitely brought a smile to my face. For me, dance is an outlet; an escape from the crazy world out there. It’s also a way to get a sweat up, release endorphins and express how I feel. The last dance class I took was Miss Nina’s Glow Jazz Class for adults and it was everything I needed right then! I had just managed to get my baby down to sleep for the night and I was worried I wouldn’t make the class on time. I was drained and exhausted from the day but I managed to get there just in time and boy, was I grateful! The class was fiery, sassy and high energy commercial jazz and it helped me to feel like ‘me’ again. The class, the choreography, the vibe and just being there, hit my reset button and I was filled with energy and excitement about life again!

Then Covid happened. I haven’t done a dance class since then and I’m busting to get back into it! To feel that shifting of reality – from regular evening routine to an hour of pure fun, laughs, groovy moves and high energy – is all I really want right now. For those sixty minutes that class is on, it’s like we’re on a different planet where nothing is wrong and everyone is happy! Maybe that’s why they say dance is a universal language. Because when we dance, we’re on the same page; we feel the same escape from the reality of modern human life.

Dance will always be my ‘thing’ that resets me. It used to be my ambition to make it big as a dancer and in a number of ways I did, but in this stage of my life, it’s my release, my escape and my coming-home. I’m not one to wish away time but Term 3 can’t come any quicker. I’m keen to share the space with my dance friends who are now my best friends. I’m excited to challenge myself with the choreography and techniques. I’m excited to be in the moment, hearing the beat of the song, feeling the movements in my body and letting it take over.

I’m ready to return to dance!

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Keeping your Cool in these Uncool Times

Rachel-Olivia Foster-Jones — Tue, 31 Mar 2020 06:26:25 +0000

We’ve all been feeling it – the eerie feeling on the street. The unknown of what’s to come. The anxiety creeps up on us when we visit the shops to grab a couple of groceries. It’s pretty alarming! However, we need to stay mindful of our mental health in these times. Because ultimately, it’s our attitude towards the Covid situation that will see us through. If you’re feeling the fear and unsure of how to deal with it, then take a moment to read this. It’s not medical advice* but it is some guidelines and ideas to help you through the uncertainty.

1. Fresh air, sunshine, movement and nutrition

There’s nothing stopping you from going for a walk in nature and enjoying some fresh air and sunshine (at the moment – and as long as you’re abiding by current social distancing laws). You’ll feel amazing afterwards! Plus the movement and the healthy snack you have after (a fresh fruit for example) will make you feel calm and in control. If walking isn’t your thing, then put on some music and have a dance or do a workout outside on the grass. Doing a home workout? Grab a towel and do it outside on the lawn! In regards to nutrition, nothing beats fresh food so whip up some veggies and chase it with a fruit and you’re good to go!

2. Water for your whole body

A rumour has been going around that sipping water can get rid of the virus. According to health professionals**, this isn’t true but in saying that, water is still extremely healthy! So keep drinking your 8 glasses of water per day and while you’re at it, have a nice soak in the bathtub with no social distractions to alleviate the stress!

3. Meditation and zoning out

Meditation is a fantastic way to zone out of the drama and check back in with yourself. Even just 5-10mins of guided meditation per day can do wonders for your mental health with or without global crisis. If meditation isn’t your thing then snuggle up with a book or a podcast! Here are some apps I would highly recommend:

Guided meditations: Smiling Mind and Calm
Music, podcasts and meditations: Spotify
Free Audio Books (via your local library): Borrow Box

Give yourself a limit to how much info you take on in one day. Sometimes it’s too much and you’re allowed to switch off and get away from it.

4. Affirmations and positive vibes

With potentially a lot of free time on our hands coming up, why not use the time to get crafty! Pinterest has a heap of fun craft ideas and if you’re stuck at home with young children then check out @play_at_home_mummy for some inspiration. While you’re on Pinterest, search for a positive affirmation of your choice, save it and refer to it when you can. Here’s a couple from our Glow Dance Co Instagram page:

5. Check out our online options!

We’re determined in this current crisis, to not let our students feel the weight of the mental stress. So we are working tirelessly to deliver amazing online classes (including ‘live’ and prerecorded) and a bunch of fun at-home challenges that can be done with the whole family involved! The good ol’ saying, ‘Why be moody when you can shake your booty’ has never had more purpose! So jump up, reach out to us (or any other DES family member) and join us for some fun!

* If you are experiencing mental stress that is worrying you, then don’t hesitate to reach out to a health professional such as your GP or a support line such as BeyondBlue 1300 22 4636 or Lifeline 13 11 14

** Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-51735367

Stay informed via: https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert

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Teacher Questionnaire 2020: Miss Nicola

Claire — Thu, 20 Feb 2020 07:32:39 +0000

Meet Miss Nicola!

In no more than 5 sentences, tell us a little about YOU!

I’m Nicola and I’m high energy and always moving! Between 3 jobs, teaching and taking classes and making time for the things I love, I rarely have a spare second and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

What’s your favourite colour, animal, food and place?

Pink, dog, Mexican and anywhere on the beach!

What are you looking forward to in 2020?

Getting backwards is going into more classes myself and using that as inspiration for my kiddies

What inspires you?

That where I am is already far from where I was! Everyday is a step forward.

Something you do in your spare time?

Spend time wth family, surf and almost always the beach!

What’s something you love about yourself?

My willingness to go above and beyond for things and people that mean a lot to me.

What’s one of your goals for 2020?

To travel more and to be happy! I want to be fulfilled and inspired in every aspect of my life.

What’s some advice about dance you’d like to share?

Never hold back and never take no as an answer. You’re always more capable than you think.

What’s your favourite dance move?

Any weird/whacky and intricate chorey - I love a challenge and being out of my comfort zone, something out of the ordinary.

Do you have a hobby? If so, tell us a little about it.

I love surfing! I used to compete when I was younger but old age has kept it to a spare time hobby.

What’s your secret talent?

I will almost always remember birthdays! Even if I’ve been told once or met you once!

For more info about our Teachers

Awesome. I have never seen my daughter as happy as when she is doing acro. She is inspired and motivated to give it her best. The team are like one big family. They are so passionate, committed and friendly. Thank you Dance Energy team.

Jennifer M

Parent

Book your free trial today!

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Teacher Questionnaire 2020: Miss Nina

Claire — Wed, 19 Feb 2020 08:57:40 +0000

Meet Miss Nina!

What’s your favourite colour, animal, food and place?

Favorite color is green, mercats, Vietnamese food, the beach.

What are you looking forward to in 2020?

Looking forward to - a busy year full of dance, study, family holidays and friends

What inspires you?

Learning new skills, passionate people and my kids.

Something you do in your spare time?

Go to the beach, ride bikes, lunch dates with girl pals, yoga classes.

What’s your favourite dance move?

Dancehall, hip hop and jazz !!

What’s one of your goals for 2020?

Travel more / adventure to new places

For more info about our Teachers

Jennifer M

Parent

Book your free trial today!

The post Teacher Questionnaire 2020: Miss Nina appeared first on Dance Energy Studios.

Teacher Questionnaire 2020: Miss Bek

Claire — Wed, 19 Feb 2020 08:57:20 +0000

Meet Miss Bek!

In no more than 5 sentences, tell us a little about YOU!

I’m Bek, I’m 23, and I’ve danced since I was 5! I’ve been teaching dance for about 9 years and I’m currently studying Naturopathy in Brisbane. I’m a positive person and I love anything that allows me to express my creativity. I spend heaps of time with my friends, my sister and my dog Oscar in my home in Moffat beach which I adore! I am so passionate about the Earth, spirituality, and holistic health, and I spend a lot of my spare time learning about, cultivating, and honouring those parts of my life

What’s your favourite colour, animal, food and place?

Any bright colours! Dolphins, watermelon and my home in Moffat

What are you looking forward to in 2020?

A busy year full of achieving goals, lots of dancing, fun with friends, travel, and starting to save for a house!

What inspires you?

Beauty, creativity, nature, and good-heartedness.

What’s some advice about dance you’d like to share?

Dancers - pleaseeee stop comparing yourself! You are all so unique and fantastic in your own ways, and that makes your dancing so much more interesting and valuable - no one can give the dance world what you can! Give us your everything! Also, don’t forget about the importance of strength and technique that is required for all the fancy tricks you see online. Don’t try them at home until you’ve trained for them and tried them in class first!

Something you do in your spare time?

Cooking, hanging out with friends and my dog, op-shopping, gardening, going to the beach and out into nature, sewing/anything artsy, meditation, and going out for food

What’s your favourite dance move?

Turns! I love mastering turns If I ever have dreams about dancing, it’s usually me being able to do like 30 retiré turns!

What’s something you love about yourself?

My strength, my creativity and my compassion. I love that I think, feel, and care deeply. Also, I love my hair colour!

What’s one of your goals for 2020?

Starting to save for a house! And to up my strength and technique for dance Oh! To also travel to Hawaii and see my bestie from America!

Do you have a hobby? If so, tell us a little about it.

Other than dance - I love sewing and doing anything creative! I have a side hustle called Lovahly where I sell handmade bits and pieces that I make (as sustainably as possible!) in my spare time

What’s your secret talent?

I’m qualified to practice Reiki! I absolutely love what Reiki offers, and occasionally offer it for friends. I can also recite a lot of the old Disney movies line-for-line haha!

For more info about our Teachers

Jennifer M

Parent

Book your free trial today!

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Teacher Questionnaire 2020: Miss Jacqui

Claire — Wed, 19 Feb 2020 08:57:07 +0000

Meet Miss Jacqui!

What's your favourite colour, animal, food, place?

Green, dogs, my mums potato bake! The stage!

What are you looking forward to in 2020?

Having the opportunity to teach more classes and students! Getting to watch my nephew grow up and spending more time with my family!

What inspires you?

My family, my students and my fellow teachers!

What's some advice about dance you'd like to share?

The best piece of advice I've ever gotten was to not compare yourself to others as we all dance differently. Don't try and dance better than the person next to you, try and dance better than you. Show you what you can do! ~ Also to just go for it! Smash it out! Give it your all because no one is going to judge you!

Something you do in your spare time?

I binge watch TV shows, read, workout and have very lengthy conversations with my boyfriend about random things

What's your favourite dance move?

I loooooove jumps! They have always been my go to!

What's something you love about yourself?

I love my passion. My passion for dance especially. It's my absolute favourite thing in the world. Whether it's teaching dance or performing, I wouldn't be me without it!

What's one of your goals for 2020?

One of my goals is to improve my teaching skills by implementing new strategies into the classroom. I want my students to feel as though they are accomplishing something every class no matter how big or small it is!

Do you have a hobby? If so, tell us a little about it.

At the moment I've been getting back into sewing! I did it in high school and loved it! It's something my mum used to do a lot when she was younger so we do it together.

What's your secret talent?

I can make a clover with my tongue

For more info about our Teachers

Jennifer M

Parent

Book your free trial today!

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