Learning Life's Rhythm: Lessons from My Dance Idol, Derek Hough

Got to pick up Derek Hough!

Meeting Derek - The Dream Come True

The experience of meeting Derek was surreal and unfolded in two memorable instances. The first time, during his show, I not only had the opportunity to watch him perform live, but I also got to record a TikTok video with him. We did the viral "Coincidence" routine, a moment that left me breathless, more-so because I got to lift Derek Hough - a moment any dancer would covet. The second instance was after a dance competition, My students joined me at the show. One of them joined me for the backstage experience. To our delight, she had the opportunity to dance a Hustle with Derek, while I was thrilled to perform a side-by-side jive routine with him. Having a one-on-one conversation with Derek was surreal, and his down-to-earth demeanor made the encounter even more special. The cherry on top, however, was the Q&A session, where I could delve deeper into his dance philosophy and career journey.

Staying In Peak Performance - Derek’s Wisdom:

One of the pressing questions I had for Derek was how he maintained his physical peak performance. His answer was simple but profound: personal ritual, energy management, and proper nutrition. Derek stressed the importance of having routines that prepare your body and mind for rigorous activity, like a warm-up ritual or a regular exercise routine. Checking your energy levels and aligning them with your activities is crucial, he said. Lastly, he emphasized how consistent, nutritious eating habits fuel performance, highlighting the significance of treating your body as your most important instrument.

Choreographing With Energy - Derek's Approach:

When asked about choreography and overcoming mental blocks, Derek offered insightful advice. He emphasized that it's unproductive to develop choreography when you're in a low-energy or heightened emotional state. The story we wish to tell through our movement should align with our energy at the moment. Sometimes, inspiration could be as simple as designing the dance around a captivating costume or a unique prop, reminding us that creativity often lies in unexpected places.

The Most Profound Advice - Derek’s Life Lesson:

The most profound advice Derek shared came from his own mentors. He talked about the need to comprehend the energy we put out into the world. As dancers, we connect with people's emotions through our movement. Hence, we must be conscientious about the energy we embody and the influence we wield. Derek also shared a personal anecdote about competing in the U.K., where he recognized he wasn't the best dancer, but he had the audacity to show up and compete anyway. This lesson of resilience and self-belief has stayed with me.

Overcoming Adversity

My dance journey hasn't always been a smooth waltz across the ballroom. There were moments when I faced harsh criticism, moments that left me doubting my abilities. Particularly painful were instances when these doubts were sown by individuals I once considered mentors, people I looked up to in the dance world. I was told things like "you can't even dance" or "you will amount to nothing." It's a jarring experience to hear such negativity from those you respect and seek guidance from. The echoes of their words lingered, their sting piercing deeper because of the admiration I had for these individuals. The hurt was intense, but I realized that I had to move past these moments of self-doubt. It wasn't easy, but I had to remind myself that every dancer has a unique journey, and this was part of mine. I chose to continue dancing, not for the approval of others, but for the love of dance itself. It's in those moments of despair that Derek's wisdom resonated with me the most. "Be the person who sticks it out till the end," he said. So, here I am, sticking it out, for the love of dance.

Conclusion:

Meeting Derek Hough was not just a fan moment for me; it was a life-changing experience. Unlike my previous encounters with idols, which left me disheartened, Derek’s authenticity and encouragement have further ignited my passion for dance. They say, "don't meet your heroes," but I'm incredibly grateful I met mine, Derek Hough, who has given me more than I could have ever anticipated.

I’d love to hear your stories! Have you ever met your idols or have their wisdom influenced you? How have you persevered in the face of adversity? Please share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below. Let's inspire each other to keep dancing through life's challenges, one step at a time.

Unleashing the Magic: Dance Exhibitions and the Power of Performance

Pictured: Instructor Jake Famme and his amazing students before the big showcase performance

Dance exhibitions are thrilling opportunities for students to step into the spotlight, perform a meticulously crafted ballroom dance routine, and captivate a live audience. Beyond the applause and glitz, these performances hold immense value in building confidence, fostering a unique sense of accomplishment, and allowing students to express their authentic personality. In this blog post, we'll dive into the transformative power of dance exhibitions and explore how they empower students to shine on stage.

Building Confidence through Performance:

Dance exhibitions provide a stage where students can overcome stage fright, conquer their fears, and unleash their confidence. Stepping onto the dance floor in front of a live audience requires immense courage, and with each performance, students grow more self-assured. The supportive cheers and applause fuel their belief in their abilities, leading to an increased sense of self-esteem both on and off the dance floor. Dancing in exhibitions helps students embrace their uniqueness and realize their potential as performers.

A Unique Sense of Accomplishment:

Performing a ballroom dance routine in front of a live audience offers a unique sense of accomplishment. The countless hours of practice, dedication, and refinement culminate in a mesmerizing showcase of skill, artistry, and passion. As students execute each step with precision and grace, they experience the thrill of seeing their hard work come to life. The applause and admiration from the audience serve as validation for their efforts, leaving them with a deep sense of fulfillment and pride in their accomplishments.

Showcasing Personality and Authenticity:

Dance exhibitions provide a platform for students to showcase their unique personality and individual style. From elegant waltzes to fiery Latin rhythms, each dance routine becomes a canvas for students to express themselves artistically. Through their movements, facial expressions, and interactions with their dance partner, they can convey their emotions, tell a story, and create a profound connection with the audience. This creative expression helps students discover their artistic voice and nurtures their confidence in embracing their authentic selves.

Performing a routine offer a transformative experience that goes beyond the dance routine itself. They empower students to overcome fears, build confidence, and experience a unique sense of accomplishment. The stage becomes a canvas where students can showcase their true selves, express their individuality, and captivate an audience with their passion for dance. By participating in dance exhibitions, students not only refine their technical skills but also cultivate their inner artist, leaving them with lifelong memories and a newfound belief in their abilities.

Pro/Am Showcase Opportunity for students:

Additionally, I am thrilled to offer Pro-am instruction for those interested in performing showcase routines. Whether you're an experienced dancer or just starting your dance journey, I provide personalized choreography and expert instruction to help you shine on stage. It's an incredible opportunity to showcase your skills and create a memorable performance. Speaking of showcases, mark your calendars for June 10th at Uptown Dance studio in Tigard, where we will be hosting a spectacular event.

I have limited slots available each show, with only five spots in total. Three of them have already been reserved for our December 2023 showcase. So, if you're eager to give it a try, don't miss out and secure your slot today. Join us for an unforgettable evening of dance and witness the magic of our talented performers!

The Joys of Competitive Ballroom and Latin Dancing: Celebrating Success at the Portland Open

Pictured: Sharon, Didi, and Hannah, bringing home first place at the Portland Open Dance-Sport Competition

Competitive ballroom and Latin dancing is not just a thrilling experience, but a deeply rewarding journey that brings immense joy to our lives. Recently, I had the incredible honor of joining my amazing students, Sharon, Didi, and Hannah, at the highly anticipated Portland Open in downtown Portland. Together, we embarked on an unforgettable dance adventure, where their extraordinary talent, determination, and growth took center stage. Join me as we celebrate their remarkable achievements and dive into the captivating world of competitive ballroom and Latin dancing.

Words cannot express how proud I am of my students for their outstanding performances at the Portland Open. Witnessing their unwavering commitment and dedication paying off on such a grand stage was a truly magical experience. Every breathtaking move and mesmerizing step showcased their progress and the countless hours they poured into their practice. To my exceptional students, congratulations on this well-deserved success!

The Benefits of Ballroom Dance Competitions: Let's talk about the incredible benefits that ballroom dance competitions offer. It's not just about the thrill of the event itself, but also the personal growth, self-confidence, and sense of community they foster. The preparation for a competition pushes dancers to reach new heights, refining their technique and unleashing their artistic expression. Beyond the dance floor, the supportive atmosphere at competitions creates lifelong friendships and connections with fellow dancers who share the same passion.

It's Never Too Late to Start: Remember, it's never too late to start your own dance journey. Ballroom dance competitions warmly welcome individuals of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or taking your very first steps, the competitive arena provides a platform for you to showcase your progress and celebrate your personal achievements. The magic of ballroom dance competitions lies in the joy, growth, and accomplishment they bring, regardless of your age or experience. So, if you've ever dreamed of stepping onto the competition floor, know that it's never too late to start and experience the transformative power of competitive ballroom and Latin dancing.

The Portland Open holds a special place in our hearts as an unforgettable experience filled with pure joy, celebration, and the magic of competitive dance. To anyone who has ever considered competing or wishes to embark on a dance adventure, please don't hesitate to reach out to me or visit the studio. I would absolutely love to help you get started on your own extraordinary dance journey.

Eat, Play, Stay Fit: A Guide to Staying Active and Healthy While Traveling

As a dance instructor, fitness is essential for me to maintain peak performance. But as a traveler, I don't want to sacrifice indulging in the local cuisine and culture. It can be challenging to balance both, especially when traveling involves hours of sitting and being sedentary.

One of my go-to strategies for staying fit while traveling is to resist the convenience and using Uber or Lyft everywhere and instead walk or even bike. Renting a bicycle has been my favorite way to get around lately, and it's a great way to explore a new place while getting some exercise.

When traveling, time management can be a challenge, especially when trying to fit in a workout. However, I have found that even short bursts of exercise throughout the week can make a big difference. Just like practicing dance choreography, you don't need to have lengthy workout sessions to stay in shape. Multiple short bursts of 5-10 minutes can be just as effective, and can easily fit into a busy travel schedule. So, whether it's a quick morning yoga flow or a 10-minute bodyweight circuit before bed, finding small pockets of time for exercise can help maintain fitness while on the go.

HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) workouts are perfect for travelers because they're quick and effective. Even if you don't have access to a gym, you can do bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, and burpees in your hotel room or a nearby park. HIIT workouts favor short bursts of exercise, so you don't have to spend a lot of time working out, but you can still get great results. As a dance instructor, I love incorporating HIIT workouts into my own fitness routine and I even run weekly HIIT classes at the dance studio. They're a great way to get in shape and have fun with a group of like-minded people. If you're interested in joining, be sure to check out our class schedule!

Aside from staying active, it's equally important to watch what you eat while traveling to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Rather than indulging in large meals, I recommend trying smaller plates to taste different types of food. During my visit to Madrid, I couldn't resist trying tapas - small, delicious plates perfect for sampling a variety of dishes without overeating. Another trick is to do some research and plan your meals ahead of time. This way, you can make sure you're getting a balanced diet, and it can also help you avoid the temptation of unhealthy snacks. Additionally, staying hydrated is essential while traveling, as it helps regulate your metabolism and curb cravings. Drinking plenty of water will also help you avoid overeating.

In addition, if you find it difficult to incorporate exercise into your travel schedule, try to incorporate it into your daily activities. Walk or bike instead of taking a cab or public transportation, take the stairs instead of the elevator, and try to explore the city by foot. And remember, staying active and eating healthily doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing approach. It's okay to indulge in some of the local cuisine and enjoy yourself. Just make sure to stay mindful of portion sizes and balance it out with some physical activity.

If you have any questions about staying fit while traveling, or if you have any requests for future tips, feel free to leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you and help you stay on track with your fitness goals while still having an amazing travel experience.

The Solo Traveler's Guide: Tips for Adventurous and Independent Exploration

As a solo traveler, I've had plenty of people ask me about what it's like to travel alone, and for tips on how to do it successfully. The truth is, traveling solo can be a truly liberating experience, but it also requires a bit of planning and preparation. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Start small. If you're new to solo travel, it's a good idea to start with domestic trips. There are plenty of beautiful places to see in the United States, and traveling domestically can be a great way to build your confidence and get a feel for what solo travel is like.

2. Obtain TSA pre-check. This is a game-changer when it comes to getting through airport security quickly. It's a relatively simple process, and it can save you a lot of time and hassle.

3. Travel light. One of the biggest benefits of solo travel is the freedom to move quickly and easily. Packing light will make you more agile, and it can save you money on baggage fees. Plus, you'll have less to worry about when you're on the go.

4. Have a plan, but be flexible. It's important to have a rough itinerary for your trip, but don't be afraid to deviate from it if something interesting comes up. Sometimes the best experiences happen when you least expect them.

5. Be confident in your use of software, but be prepared to print out documents. Technology can be a lifesaver when it comes to solo travel, but it's always a good idea to have a backup plan. Print out your important travel documents and keep them with you, just in case.

Traveling solo can be an incredible experience, and with a bit of planning and preparation, you can do it with confidence. So why not start planning your next adventure today? Let me know if you want anymore travel tips and if you have any questions be sure to leave a comment below!

Happy Travels!!

Smooth Sailing: Why I Love Cruising

Cruising is one of my absolute favorite ways to travel. There's just something about being on a ship, away from the real world, that is so unique and magical. From the stunning ocean views to the incredible onboard amenities, there's just so much to love about cruising.

One of my favorite things about cruising is the opportunity to disconnect and unwind. When you're on a ship, you're truly in your own little world. There are no emails to check, no phone calls to answer, and no deadlines to meet. It's just you, the ocean, and a whole lot of relaxation.

But that's not all - cruising is also a fantastic way to meet new people and make lasting connections. As a solo traveler, going on a cruise by myself can be a little daunting, but it's also an incredible opportunity to meet new people from all over the world.

And as a dancer, I absolutely love the live bands they have on board. It's the perfect opportunity to strut my stuff on the dance floor and maybe even learn some new moves from fellow passengers. It's amazing how dance can be such a universal language - even if you don't speak the same language as someone else, you can still communicate through movement and music.

Of all the cruise lines I've been on, Princess is definitely my favorite. From the fantastic onboard entertainment to the incredible dining options, there's just something special about a Princess cruise. And of course, the fact that they often cater to an older crowd means that there are usually fewer kids on board, which is a big plus for me.

If you haven't tried cruising yet, I highly recommend it as a unique way to travel and experience the world. And if you're looking for a cruise line that offers amazing amenities and caters to an older crowd, you can't go wrong with Princess. Bon voyage!

How Travel and Dance Have Shaped My Life and Communication Skills

I never thought dance and travel would have such a huge impact on my life, but now, as a seasoned dance instructor and travel enthusiast, I can't imagine my life without them. They've not only helped me stay fit and healthy, but also given me the tools to communicate more effectively with people from all walks of life.

Growing up, I was an extremely shy person. I found it hard to communicate with others, and often felt like I was on the sidelines watching everyone else have fun. Dance taught me to express myself in new and creative ways. It gave me a platform to showcase my talents and allowed me to connect with people on a deeper level. As I became more comfortable on the dance floor, I started to gain confidence in myself and my abilities off the dance floor.

Travel has also played a huge role in shaping who I am today. It's allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone and experience new cultures and ways of life. Travel has taught me to be adaptable, open-minded, and accepting of others. These skills have not only made me a better traveler but also a better communicator.

One experience that really sticks out in my mind is when I was in Spain and decided to go out social dancing. I don't speak Spanish very well, but it didn't matter on the dance floor. People I danced with and I communicated through movement and created a connection that didn't require words. It was a truly memorable experience and one that reinforced my belief in the power of dance to connect people.

Together, dance and travel have enhanced my life in so many ways. They've allowed me to stay active, express myself, and connect with people from all over the world. And the best part is, anyone can enjoy the benefits of dance and travel, regardless of their age or experience level.

If you're looking to enhance your life through dance and travel, then stick around. I'll be sharing my travel stories, dance tips, and fitness advice to help you live your best life. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or new to the dance world, there's something here for everyone.

So, let's go on this journey together. Check back often for more updates, travel stories, and fitness/dance tips. Let's live life to the fullest!