Last week I ran into someone who said to me: I've been thinking all the time and I want to know now: Do you suffer from Corona kilos or ehhhhh. Or ehhhhh what…or are you just fat? Is that the question? After the pandemic, have you also heard people say that you are there 

looks healthy? Does that make you panic? Healthy is often another word for; too fat and that is not good in your eyes.

You've had to deal with online class, no class, no performances, sitting at home alone, maybe back home with your parents. Now it almost feels like you have to start all over again. And yes, your body has changed, you can see that yourself and that is quite difficult. You don't need to hear that again.

The pandemic has been terrible there is no doubt about it. But it certainly also had a positive side. Especially because your body was able to catch up enormously and is now healthier than before. Years of intensive training in combination with too little food (on purpose or not) exhausts your body. Because of the rest your body received, it is healthier than ever. You can now really grow into the healthiest, strongest and best dancer you can be. And the big bonus: it will make you even happier! Physical and mental health are much more intertwined than you might think. Very important to see that and do something with it, it will help you so much.

Grab this moment. Not to get stressed, but to see that you can deliver top performance from a healthy basis. Talk to others, educate yourself about nutrition that gives your body the necessary energy, find a buddy you can talk to about the mental part. You have to do it yourself because it is difficult to completely change an image that has been seen as 'normal' in the dance world for so long, that takes a lot of time. Take matters into your own hands and seize this moment. 

Also, talk to older dancers, they've all been through the same thing as you, in terms of nutrition and body image. Which is also important; surround yourself with peers who also want to be healthy and encourage each other to do so. Really, go for it.

I love the person who asked if I was suffering from corona kilos so I knew the comment wasn't meant to be evil. But where before I would have immediately emptied my kitchen cupboards (If there was anything in it :)) it didn't bother me at all now. I am so happy with my body that I cried very loudly; No dude, I'm finally me, this is me. And that is really priceless and I wish everyone.

I did a lot of work to get to where I am now. But not hysterical, the journey to the goal was also very nice and that is so important. Only by applying small steps, small adjustments can you achieve big changes. Think of one thing you could and would like to change next week. What do you need for this, who can support you, what help do you need? Make sure your goal is realistic and then go for it. 1 small step is a great start. 

In my coaching programs we look at realistic goals that you can make. How to get into a positive mindset to achieve your goals in a pleasant way. To see how you provide your body with energy and everything else you need in a good way. They are programs in which you are central, everyone is different, you are unique and need a unique approach that works for you: One size fits none.

Do you feel better in your body now than before the pandemic or do you need some extra support to show you how great you are just the way you are? I am very curious.