Let's take accountability.

Hmm.. That's a big statement. Acountability. Responsibility. Ownership. Sometimes, it isn't easy to do. Many times it is much easier to say I would much rather take a nap than do my homework, leg exercises, etc. I feel you. Not to be cliché, but I'm only cheating myself. 

It is very clear to me, that dancers are some of the most accountable people you will ever meet. We have to be. Each move and formation placed to perfection, and in a sport all about aesthetic you have to be flawless. If you aren't, you must take ownership. (There is no point in doing otherwise because there is always a video. Hehe!) Not only do we have to be, we want to be. Why you ask? Because we want to better ourselves, we are driven, and the competitive nature to rise to the top is inevitable for all of us. Getting yourself in ballet class after a long day of school, homework, stress, and exhaustion is not always easy, but if you want it you will. 

PLOT TWIST for this ballerina: you're injured. So now what? As I am learning, it is time to take all the needed time off. However, I still take accountability in how I'm living as an athlete and artist. 

First, nutrition. Now more than ever it becomes even more essential in my life. I am fortunately blessed with a relatively high metabolism. However, I have also been spending 20 hours a week in the studio since I was capable of the time and commitment. Now, in order to keep up my healthy lifestyle, with limited ability to exercise, I have to take some major accountablility in my food choices! If you have followed my platform for awhile, you know I break down foods into three categories: slow foods, woah foods, and go foods. 

Go foods: eat these as much as you want! They give you the energy to keep going throughout your super awesome, healthy day! (Ex: fruits, veggies, lean proteins) 

Slow foods: careful.. These might slow you down. Although they seem like a good choice, hidden sugars and carbs lie within them. Limit these to once or twice a week treats! (Ex: fruit juice, white breads, trail mix) 

Woah foods: when you find out what's inside of these you'll be saying just that... Woah! Save these yummy, but dangerous, foods for special occasions like a birthday party, holiday, or an A on that big test you studied for! (Ex: soda, cake, potato chips) 

Next, exercise. 

It's important to know what your body can handle. However, it doesn't mean you should completely lay off the exercise. I spent my first day back at the gym working on some abs and upper body exercise. It is amazing how quickly your body forgets what it's normal routine is. Have realistic expectations for yourself. I must admit, I did not. I was slightly disappointed with the limited motion and exercise I could physically handle. However, now I am ready to set goals and improve each time I work out. It's important to not allow myself to slack, as part of my future relies very much on keeping my dancer body in shape to return as prepared as possible to dance, and my normal lifestyle! 

Lastly, Physical Therapy. Wow, how important is this!? I have been told so many times that PT is where you either make or break your return from an injury. I am determined to make mine an awesome, better than ever comeback. It might sound easy, but ownership comes in here. It is important to do my exercises at home. Think about the results, not the labor. 

So now I ask the largely debatable question: is obesity in a gene? Is it a disease some are susceptible to? 

I'll let you answer this on your own. However, think about this. Some family health patterns start with the actions of 1 person. If you feel that you are more likely to have issues with your health then it's your responsibility to change that. Take ownership in your health status and make health changes for the better. Anyone can do it, it only takes one thing. Accountability. 

Fortunately, that is one trait we are all susceptible to. Now get out there! The least you can do for your body is make it a healthy one! 

xoxo, 

Heather