Tag: health tips

How to Deal with Lower Body Swelling

After a dance-packed day, it’s not uncommon for your lower body to be swollen. This phenomenon isn’t anything to worry about, but it can be uncomfortable. Luckily, there are a number of easy fixes—and ways to prevent swelling altogether. Dance Spirit turned to Jessica Lassiter, DPT, OCS, ATC, CMPT, a physical therapist and certified athletic […]

Our Top Tips for Staying Healthy During Cold & Flu Season

You know what unfortunately goes hand in hand with the greatest time of year? The dreaded cold and flu season. But, never fear—you can stay ahead of the curve this year by keeping your immune system working smoothly before the sniffles set in. We’ve rounded up our best tips and tricks to help you stay […]

5 Sleep Mistakes You Don't Know You're Making

You and your phone have more in common than you might guess, says Dr. Rafael Pelayo, pediatrician and clinical professor at the Stanford Center for Sleep Sciences and Medicine. “If you charge your phone halfway, it works for a few hours,” he explains. “But it’s not performing at its full potential, and you have to […]

The Power of Pumpkin: Dancer Edition

From lattes to jack-o’-lanterns, pumpkins and October go hand in hand. But this super squash is way more than just a spooky staircase addition—it’s a performance-boosting powerhouse and a dancer’s best friend. Here are a few ways to reap the health benefits of this fall staple. In Your Food Thinkstock There are lots of delicious—and […]

How Much Protein Do Dancers Actually Need?

You’ve probably heard that protein is essential in a dancer’s diet. But you might not know what protein actually does for your hardworking bod, how much you should be eating, and—gasp!—why it could actually be overrated. We asked Andrea Chernus (a registered dietitian nutritionist who advises Juilliard students and Hamilton cast members) and Nora Minno […]

How Rest and Recovery Can Take Your Dancing to the Next Level

More studio time = more improvement? Not always, according to Roman Zhurbin, American Ballet Theatre soloist and certified personal trainer. “It’s absolutely necessary to take rest days so your body can reset and you stay motivated,” says Zhurbin. “Seven days a week of hard training is just unhealthy.” What is healthy: letting your body recover […]

How to Put Together a School Lunch That'll Keep You Energized For Dance Class

School cafeterias often conjure up less-than-appetizing images—mystery meats, mushy vegetables, and stale cheese sandwiches are just a few of the things that come to mind. And while this isn’t always the case, it can often be a challenge to follow a satisfying, dance-friendly diet if you’re buying your lunch at school. Dance Spirit asked Heidi […]

Nailed It: How to Deal with Common Dancer Toenail Troubles

Toenail trials and tribulations just come with the territory when you’re a dancer. They can range from slightly annoying to super-painful, and it’s crucial to address them immediately. Dance Spirit turned to Dr. Bryan Hersh, DPM, for a breakdown of the most common toenail woes and the most effective ways to treat them. Bruised Toenails […]