2026 is the year of doing things that scare me.

Many of you may not know this, but once upon a time I was a professional ballet dancer. During my first pro season, I needed knee surgery, and my surgeon suggested I find a new career path. That moment brought me home, into a salon as a receptionist, and eventually to cosmetology school.

For years, I couldn’t even look at ballet because it was too painful. Over time, I found the love of watching ballet again and this year I wanted to challenge myself to love dancing again too.

After 17 years away from my last ballet class, I’ve been taking an adult ballet class for the last four weeks. Every class, it’s coming back more and more…….but this time, instead of pressure to perform or be “the best,” I’m focused on getting lost in the dance and enjoying it.

It’s an hour and a half each week where I get to shut off “hair and dad” mode and challenge myself.

1/31 Edited to

... Read moreReturning to ballet after nearly two decades has been both challenging and rewarding. From my experience, adult ballet classes offer a unique environment where the focus shifts from perfect technique to personal enjoyment and self-expression. Unlike the intense pressure of professional ballet, these classes prioritize movement for wellness and emotional release. For anyone considering rediscovering a childhood passion or trying something new despite fears or past injuries, I recommend approaching it gently. My knee surgery years ago was a tough turning point, but consistent practice and patience have allowed me to reconnect with dance in a therapeutic way. One valuable aspect of joining adult classes is the sense of community. Many participants bring diverse backgrounds, and we all support each other’s progress without judgment. This inclusive atmosphere helped me shed the anxiety around performing and instead focus on the dance itself. Personally, setting a weekly time dedicated solely to ballet helps me detach from daily responsibilities like work and parenting. It’s become a form of meditation and self-care, allowing me to engage fully in the present moment. If you share a similar story of stepping away from a passion due to injury or life changes, know that it's possible to return to it on your own terms. Whether it’s ballet or another activity, embracing the process without pressure opens up new avenues of joy and growth. Rediscovering your love for something once painful can transform how you see yourself and your capabilities, proving that it’s never too late to dance again.

2 comments

amyleigh 🦋's images
amyleigh 🦋

Wow! That jette is beautiful! You still have it!

Lily's images
Lily

Bless you

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