What Does Body Positivity Mean Anyway?
What Body Positivity Means at Our Studio
At Dance Moves, we believe that every body is a beautiful instrument of creativity and expression. In our studio, no body is critiqued or talked about in terms of size, shape, or weight. Our philosophy is simple: if you have a body, you can dance. We are committed to fostering an environment where every dancer feels valued, capable, and celebrated for their unique abilities.
Growing up in a very strict ballet school, I experienced firsthand the damaging effects of constant body criticism. I was repeatedly told that my body wasn't good enough—that I was too big. This relentless scrutiny scarred me and eventually led to a lengthy struggle with an eating disorder. My self-worth was tied to a standard that was impossible to meet, and it took years to rebuild my relationship with dance and with my body.
When I founded Dance Moves, I made a vow: no young dancer would ever have to endure what I went through. Our studio is a place where talent and creativity are nurtured, not judged by physical appearance. We focus on what your body can do—how it can move, express, and create—not on how it looks.
We believe that every dancer's body is a tool for creativity and talent. Our classes are designed to help students discover the joy of movement, the thrill of mastering new skills, and the confidence that comes from expressing themselves freely. We do not discuss weight or weight management because we understand the harmful impact such conversations can have, especially on young minds.
At Dance Moves, we celebrate diversity in all its forms. We encourage our dancers to embrace their bodies as they are and to appreciate the unique way each of them can express emotion, tell a story, and bring art to life. Our goal is to provide a nurturing, inclusive environment where every dancer feels empowered to explore their potential and grow, not just as dancers, but as confident individuals.
We are committed to supporting each dancer's journey in a way that honors their individuality and respects their body. In our studio, it's not about fitting into a mold—it's about breaking free from it and celebrating the beauty and strength within every dancer.
As we start our new season, how can we all be kinder to ourselves and our beautiful, unique bodies?
With Love.
Jessica
