REANIMATE MOVEMENT - HOW IT ALL STARTED

2012 was a time for transition as I stepped away from the stage to focus on the growth and development of my young family. But dance never truly left me; it simply began to evolve.  Whilst I was 5 months pregnant with my second child, I auditioned for the PGCE in Dance Education course at the Royal Academy of Dance. My application was successful, and with a three-month-old baby and toddler by my side, I embarked on my new journey into full-time teacher training. I did not accomplish this alone, I am extremely lucky and blessed to have the love and support of my family. They are my biggest cheerleaders.

This was the beginning of a new purpose: empowering others through dance and movement. I poured my heart into education and have built a rewarding career as a teacher, sharing the power of creativity, collaboration, discipline, and self-expression. But as I gave more to others, I also inadvertently neglected my needs in the process - I had become stagnant in the 'busyness of life'. So, I decided to take up Kung Fu for fun with my children, but then…

 …In 2017, I pushed too hard, and my body spoke up. I suffered the most excruciating bilateral groin injury from overuse, triggered by performing floorwork-based choreography. This was my first ever debilitating injury, and it happened because I was trying to do everything, be everything, and be everywhere all at the same time. I needed to slow down and recalibrate. 

Through a gentle and intentional return to movement, Pilates, Yoga, Tai Chi, and strength training became my foundation to rebuild. I began to heal not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Movement became my medicine. The recovery period was slow and arduous, but with patience and dedication, I am grateful to have finally fully recovered; my mindset also shifted. Movement was no longer about perfection but presence. Being a strong, successful, and independent woman no longer meant burning the candle at both ends. The shift became my foundation to 'Reanimate'.

Letting go and wholeheartedly embracing myself in the present with gratitude and contentment brought me peace. The present moment is all we have, and the moments we have are gifts from the universal energy. I felt alive again…rejuvenated, reborn - I felt ‘Reanimated’ from the inside out, and outside in. 

I take pride in calling myself a lifelong learner -  I truly love a challenge! During the chaos and uncertainty of the 2020 pandemic, I embraced the opportunity to deepen my Yoga practice and completed my 200-hour Teacher Training. This transformative experience not only enriched my personal journey but also gave me the tools to empower, support, and inspire others to move with intention, confidence, and compassion. 

Getting certified was only the beginning of another journey - the learning never stops. My passion and commitment to continual professional development and growth fuel my love of teaching and sharing.  I’ve continued to expand my toolkit and deepen my knowledge so I can offer the best support in helping others move, feel, and live with greater awareness, vitality, and balance.