performance . Dancers also learn after the performance that they could perform movements while dancing , that they may have had difficulty performing in classes .
From these discoveries of lack or less pain during performance , greater range of motion , and feeling a mental high while performing , we realize how performance feeds the soul , encourages us , and helps relieve depression .
Creating the New Normal
The “ new normal ” is a term that describes the process of coming to terms with your ability limitations and defining the scope of wellness and mental abilities – after trauma or disease . The first step to continued healing and recovery of your identity as a dancer is to focus on your mental health and emotions . Realize and accept that you are experiencing and creating a “ new normal ” for your body and dancing .
Recognize that exploring your emotions and fear is a requisite first step in positive coping with your situation to assist you to remove the body ’ s fear response which can cause rigidity and make you prone to re-injury . Consider that if you don ’ t develop a positive mental attitude , you could impede your recovery and return to dance that satisfies you .
Mental and Physical well being
Both mental and physical conditioning is essential in healing and recovery . Remember that body conditioning and muscle strengthening and lengthening are requisite to a return to your new normal and ability to perform again . Be in a positive frame of mind and focus on setting physical goals for recovery to help empower you . Rather than be depressed by comparing yourself to your former glory and other top-notch dancers , concentrate on performing the basic movements .
Your new dance persona
Personal success is realized when you can perform basic dance movements again . Don ’ t rush the recovery process , but instead focus on creating your own goals and “ new normal ” dance movement and performance . Another critical aspect is formulating and developing your new dance persona . In the process of dance movement recovery , you will discover new ways to move and the opportunity to define your unique dance style .
For me , I know that for several years after “ surviving cancer ,” – my performances held that “ wow , I ’ m still alive and dancing ” quality . While it ’ s OK to celebrate life and survival , others noted this performance persona and provided supportive feedback as I gradually adapted and became comfortable with my own new normal and again recognizable as a dancer with a particular performance persona .
Recovery and the change process
How did I adapt and manage this change ? When I took workshops and classes , I moved and danced as well as I could ; and when I couldn ’ t , I stopped and made notes about movements I could perform “ in my way and style .” Sitting on the sidelines during workshops and classes allowed me a different perspective and time to reflect on new possibilities for dancing movements being taught . This new focus in learning assisted me in avoiding the depression from obsessive comparison with great dancers and my former performing capability that was now lost to me . Embrace the change process in your recovery and healing , and empower yourself .
Structural analysis leads to instructional process .
For myself , as an INTJ personality profile – it means that I
May 2022 � The Belly Dance Chronicles 15