As part of Dance Source Houston’s Dancer Health & Wellness Initiative, the Dancer Wellness Series provides dance artists with resources to support their mental and physical health through in-person and on-demand sessions. The series features workshops on a range of health topics presented by medical professionals and movement classes led by artists from a mind-body perspective. All sessions are free and open to all.
2024 Dancer Wellness Series Schedule
Led by Andrea Vazquez-Aguirre | November 13 | 12-1pm | Institute of Contemporary Dance
MUNZ FLOOR® promotes lengthening of the body, especially the spine by toning crossed muscle chains or deep muscles, while supporting the relaxation of the superficial muscles. The slow rotational sequences, done on the floor, lead to hydration of the fascial system. The MUNZ coach guides the participants verbally, allowing them to become autonomous, regardless of their age and level. At the end of the session, the participants will feel the effects of this self-massage (constant rotations / counter-rotations). MUNZ FLOOR’s hallmark “spiraled slowness”, leaves the body tissues firmer and more supple. Please bring a yoga mat with you.
The Dancers Pelvic Floor – A Jumpy Bladder
Led by Daisy Su | December 4 | 12-1pm | Hunter Dance Center
The goal this session is to continue discussion and education regarding pelvic health and pelvic floor therapy in relation to the dance and performing art’s population. Performing artists have increasing rates of pelvic floor dysfunction and we will dive deeper into common diagnoses and symptoms dancers may experience. This lecture based session will also incorporate some movement to give participants suggestions to incorporate into their routine for management.
PAST: Stepping into Wellness: Mental Health Matters for Dancers and Performers
Led by Yamilet Molina | September 18 | View Recording
Stepping into Wellness will be a session tailored for dancers and performers, where we’ll explore the vital connection between mental health and artistic expression. Through engaging discussions and practical strategies, participants will discover how to cultivate resilience, manage performance anxiety, and prioritize self-care, fostering a supportive environment for holistic well-being in the dance and performance community.
PAST: Consent Culture In Dance: Navigating Body Safety With Self & Others
Led by Violet Moon | October 16 | 12-1pm | Houston Met Dance
The intent of this session is to provide a comprehensive exploration of consent within the dance community, addressing historical exploitation and empowering dancers to cultivate safety and respect within themselves first and then within their community. Through discussions, exercises, and practical tools, attendees will explore establishing internal boundaries and navigating interpersonal dynamics, particularly within the dance-body relationship. This session, created with professionals with histories of coercion and abuse in mind, offers insights and strategies relevant to attendees’ lived experiences. Ultimately, attendees will walk away with increased awareness, enhanced communication skills, and practical tools for advocating for a culture of consent and respect with in their dance practice and communities— fostering inclusivity, well-being, and creative empowerment.
L to R – 2023 Dancer Wellness Series Sessions including African Dance Fusion with Ren Hall, Alexander Technique with Adele Nickel, and Veil Dancing with Y.E. Torres.
L to R – 2022 Dancer Wellness Series Sessions including Contemporary with Mezclada Dance Company at Studio713, Mindful Kathak Movements with Dolly Goyal, and Inner Landscapes: Intersecting Anatomy, Technique, and Improvisation with Lori Yuill.
View past Dancer Wellness Series sessions on YouTube, including nutrition, mental health, injury prevention, meditation, movement and more.
2023 Dancer Wellness Series
African Dance Fusion | Ren Hall | October 18 | 12-1pm | Institute of Contemporary Dance
Alexander Technique and Self-care for Movers | Adele Nickel | October 25 | 12-1pm | Uptown Dance Center
Veil Dancing | Y.E. Torres | November 1 | 12-1pm | Houston Met Dance
Partner Massage for Movers | Rivkah French | November 8 | 12-1pm | Frame Dance
Bey-kinesis | Amy Ell | November 15 | 12-1pm | Hunter Dance Center
Managing Anxiety and Perfectionism Inside and Outside The Studio | Kelsey Fyffe | November 29 | 11am-12pm | Zoom
The Dancers Pelvic Floor | Daisy Su | December 7 | 12-1pm | Hunter Dance Center (held during Day of Dancer Health 2023)