Vicarious Experiences
One of the topics we touched on within the Module 1 zoom call (22/02/21) was looking back on negative experiences, and reflecting upon what we have learnt from them. Initially I was struggling a little to find something that negatively affected me enough to need to find positives and points of learning, as I've been lucky enough to sustain a fairly healthy relationship with dance so far. Something I came to realise however, is that the negative experiences of my friends and peers has had a much larger impact on me and the way I engage with dance than I noticed. When I am truly passionate about something I tend to become extremely emotionally invested, so naturally the experiences of the people I care about most is something that has shaped me and my practice massively.
TW: I will mention Eating Disorders in this next paragraph- feel free to skip to the last (3rd) paragraph if you need.
The first, and perhaps the experience which affected the way I conduct myself not only in Dance but also general life the most, was when my closest friend was diagnosed with Anorexia at only 14. An unfortunately common experience where comments like "Pull in your belly!" or "If you were engaging your thighs they wouldn't jiggle," teamed up with teen insecurity to create a monster. I didn't fully understand exactly why my friend felt like she needed to treat herself like this at the time, but I did know that I needed to find out as soon as possible so I could support her to the best of my ability. Thankfully our dance school took the same approach- even to the extent of one teacher doing a degree in which she focused upon how language and mirrors can be used beneficially or negatively in the studio. From that time period onwards I knew that, should I ever become a teacher, I would not let myself fall into the trap of saying potentially harmful things when there are better ways of expressing what you truly mean. For example, when telling students to "Suck your tummy in!" often what is meant is "Engage your core!". That simple switch can make a world of difference, and nothing is lost just by being a little more mindful. I have seen the power this change has, and intend to use this power for good when I eventually begin teaching. Obviously there are deeper rooted issues involved in this regarding the culture of body image within dance, however that's another blog for another day.
Experiences like the above, and the many others that I have witnessed my peers go through have vicariously made me more aware and understanding of things I haven't necessarily experienced myself. Whether it's an injury, injustice or mental health struggle there is so much to learn from. I can definitely find myself becoming angered as a result of hearing things like insensitive language, cruel or dangerous methods etc, however as Helen said on the call it's important to find the positives and see what we can learn from it. I can't say I've definitely mastered that, but I am constantly working towards it. In fact, dwelling on this topic has really benefitted my mindset regarding such matters already. I'd love to hear if any of you have had similar struggles with making sure you don't just resort to anger, and any advice is always welcome. Likewise, I'd be interested to hear if you've had similar experiences of learning through your friends experiences. Hopefully as we all reflect upon negative moments and learn from them, we can work towards minimising the negative experiences of future performers and let them enjoy our amazing art forms as they should.
Hi Rebecca, I think this topic is so important and even though it can be hard to find positives in situations like these, it can help make positive change in an industry where unethical comments are made constantly. A lot of what I hear and witnessed during my training was considered 'normal' therefore I accepted it. Instead I realise I should have questioned it but at the time I would have been to frightened to question a teachers comments/behaviours. I think it's important to think of the positives or at least reflect on what these situations taught us so that as a collective we can work together so that in the future change is made to how certain situations are dealt with x
ReplyDeleteHi Rebecca!
ReplyDeleteI think you raise an interesting point here. My latest blog looks at the way body image is viewed in the industry, because it's something I've had my own struggle with.
Some of the comments said to my peers and I while in training simply wouldn't have been acceptable in any industry other than ours, and I think a lot of the more 'traditional' teachers sometimes don't even think about the way their words can affect young and vulnerable minds. People in positions of authority and respect can have such a damaging effect on young people. It's interesting to read another point of view on the subject, I look forward to reading more of your blogs!
Shannon x
Hi Rebecca,
ReplyDeleteAs dancers we understand the importance of being physically fit to perform vigorous shows and be healthy, thriving performers, but where is the limit in educating you to be fit and healthy and using damaging comments. It makes me wonder why it appears to be acceptable to be constantly told to "suck your tummy in"- like you said. We don't question these comments but reflecting on them, this doesn't seem ethically right? A lot of learners don't enter the industry after graduate and seek out alternative employment and interests. Could this be down to lack of confidence?
Hello,
ReplyDeleteThis was a really powerful post, I'm sure so many dancers can relate to this and have often worried about body image. It is so so sad when it gets to the point of anorexia, it is really scary! Reflecting on these situations can make you realise a lot about the industry and how resilient that you have to be.
Thanks for sharing!
Lucy xxx
Yes, a very powerful post. Your example of the power of changing the words used really struck me and has made me appreciate the importance of developing professional and ethical language.
ReplyDelete