Season 3
Ep:08
Resilience is one of the most used words in the dance world, yet it is often misunderstood. Many dancers think it means pushing through pain, hiding disappointment, or toughening up so no one can see them crack. In truth, that is suppression, not resilience. In this episode, Kate explores the real meaning of resilience: the ability to feel emotions fully, process them, and move forward with balance and adaptability. She unpacks why emotional processing is the foundation of true resilience, and how dancers can avoid the rigidity that comes from burying feelings. Kate also discusses the role of the nervous system in managing setbacks, offering practical tools like breathwork, grounding, shaking out tension, and recovery rituals. Teachers and parents will find guidance on how to create safe spaces for disappointment, support dancers without rushing them to “get over it,” and celebrate recoveries as much as wins. Key insights include: The difference between resilience and suppression. Why emotional processing strengthens dancers. Nervous system regulation tools for stress and setbacks. Recovery rituals that help dancers reset. Practical exercises for classrooms, auditions, and home life. How teachers and parents can nurture resilience by shifting focus from outcomes to experiences. Resilience in dance is not about becoming harder. It is about staying open, adaptable, and connected so challenges do not close dancers down. Resources Mentioned Film, Name, Frame exercise. Emotion Debrief after auditions or performances. Reset Breath pause in class. Creative Resilience Journal. Parent check-in: comfort, advice, or space. Closing Reflection Resilience is essential in dance, but it cannot be built on suppression. When dancers are supported to process emotions, they develop resilience that sustains them not only through training but through life.
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Disclaimer: The Dance Real Podcast is a space for open, honest conversations rooted in real-life experiences within the dance world. What I share—and what my guests share—is based on personal perspective, not professional advice. If you’re seeking support for your mental health, legal matters, or business decisions, I encourage you to speak with a qualified professional. The views expressed by guests are their own and don’t always reflect mine. Any references to people, places, or situations are shared with respect and the intent to spark reflection, learning, and conversation—not to harm or misrepresent. By engaging with this content, you acknowledge and agree that the host, guests, and Dance Real Podcast are not liable for any decisions made based on the information provided.

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