As an adult ballet dancer – considering myself at  an intermediate level – and a serious amateur at that, I think it’s worth saying that age should not be factor on whether you “feel” you should stop or get discouraged about dancing. In this blog, I am going to share with you my experiences on how I keep myself healthy to maintain limber joints and muscles so I can continue dancing.

Here is what I have found in my amateur ballet career – the  keyword is diet – keep it clean, as free of wheat, gluten and sugar as you can. Admittedly, I am human, so I occasionally have been known to “fall off the wagon” and indulge in a donut (or two)…  in general though, I focus on eating organic raw fruits and vegetables, healthy proteins and healthy fats. This helps keep the body free from inflammation – the precursor to degenerative disease – and in the long run will do a great deal toward keeping your joints and muscles young and flexible. I typically start out in the morning with a breakfast high in protein – and, as long as I do that, it keeps me going throughout my day.

Throughout the day I concentrate on smaller meals, oftentimes a snack is a handful of almonds, walnuts, filberts or a mixture of these or I might choose an apple, a cup of greek yogurt (yummy!) or raw or juiced vegetables. I also eat a full salad at some point in the day – the effect of raw vegetables really helps keep my skin feeling and looking its’ best, a definite plus and side benefit. Generally in the evening, I follow it with some protein, and again, raw fruit or vegetables. I eat very little or no bread – if I do, it’s gluten free.

I try to stay away from snacks before bed – unless I need something to help me unwind and sleep (and who doesn’t after those evening dance classes) – I have a great mixture of buttermilk powder that I mix in with hot water to make hot milk. I drink a cup of that and 30 – 60 minutes later, I’m asleep.  And, awake in the morning fresh and ready-to-go.

With these and other tips I’ll share in future blogs, are suggestions on ways to help keep your body healthy and ready for dance at any age.