Tis the season to be thankful and we’re extra thankful for all things dance-related over here at Jo & Jax! Throughout the year – but especially this season – it’s important for us to recognize and give thanks for dance in our lives. It’s surprising how much we might take for granted in our day-to-day life.  Here’s our list of 10 things we’re thankful for:

A healthy and able body. As dancers, our bodies are our instruments. It’s easy for us to focus on what we’re lacking in terms of flexibility, technique, or other qualities. We might not see how capable and strong we are until we’re injured or sick and unable to do the art that we love. Each day we get to dance is a gift!

Our mentors. We know that we wouldn’t be where we are today without our dance teachers, mentors, and choreographers who have trained and inspired us throughout the years. Take the time this season to write a thank-you card for someone who has had a positive impact on your life.

Dance in academia. We’re grateful for the opportunity to study dance in higher education (especially because this wasn’t always the case!). Just like any other of the fine or performing art, dance is worthy of academic study and pursuit.

Our studio/dance team. We love our dance community – it’s like our second family. Take the time to let your friends know how much you love and appreciate them.  Ask your studio owner or dance team coach if you can organize a social gathering for your studio or team this season.  Some fun ideas might be seeing a show together, hosting a potluck, or volunteering together at a local soup kitchen or shelter.

Expressing ourselves through movement. In the words of Bob Fosse, “Dance expresses joy better than anything else.” We appreciate that we can express all of our emotions through this art form of physical storytelling.

Little treats to pamper ourselves. Dance is HARD WORK. A massage, warm bath (with a floral bath bomb), or pedicure might seem like an indulgence for others, but for dancers, they’re a necessity!

Our dance parents. It’s because of our parents, who probably put us in dance class when we were little kids, that we’re still dancing today. Remember to express thanks to your parents for paying for your dance classes, driving you to class, and sitting through all your competitions and showcases.

The lessons. Discipline, hard work, responsibility, humility, and bravery…These are all lessons and qualities that we cultivate throughout our dance training and translate into so many other parts of our lives.

Loving what we do. Come on, you know that feeling you get when you nail a tricky combination, land your triple pirouette, or get to perform in front of friends and family? #JOY We’re so grateful to love and find satisfaction, fulfillment, and purpose in our craft.

The memories. Whether backstage at a competition, stretching in the waiting room before class, carpooling to the studio, or having a sleepover with your dance team, the fun times and life-changing experiences we make with our dance friends are memories we’ll always hold near and dear to our hearts.

Now it’s your turn!  Get out a piece of paper and write down 10 things you’re thankful for this season.  We’d love to hear your ideas so be sure to share them in the comments section below.