Most dancers run into a period of time where life doesn’t allow them to follow their passion. This is might be frustrating for dancers because it throws them out of the loop, and they lose that fine-tuned technique they have worked so hard on for years. However, when it is time to take a break from dance, it is time. Lets face it, the world of dance is demanding and sometimes comes with many pros and cons.
Many dancers try to push through and continue with their studies, but sometimes a dancer needs to take a hiatus. A break is actually good for a dancer, and sometimes a few months’ sabbatical can not only rejuvenate you, but can also revive your body. It can also refresh the mind and bring everything back into perspective. It is hard to dance continuously, as we sometimes lose who we are outside of it. This does not provide a good creative energy, especially for a creative dancer.
It is important for dancers to sometimes take a hiatus due to injuries; whether it is a sprain, break from general overuse or the like. Serious dancers most often overwork themselves, as dance requires it a lot of the time. The endless rehearsals, classes and shows can really weigh down on a dancer’s body. We need to think of our health more than our status as a dancer. Don’t forget that dancing can be quite demanding, and this is the main reason why every dancer deserves a sabbatical. We are entitled to a break and a moment to live life. Our spirit is what makes our dancing great, and if our spirit is stifled, then there is nothing to offer to the people or our dance.
Another difficult aspect of a hiatus is to return to dance. Some dancers take a long time. Maybe they decide to quit, as they are not making ends meet, and have spent days and hours working at a more lucrative employment position.
There are several reasons why dancers get pulled away from their passion. Life is just that way. But when you decide to return it can be an intimidating experience. Maybe you are worried that you might “forget” how to dance. The only answer to that is to get back to the dance floor with a positive attitude, high energy, calm mind, and most importantly to work hard all over again.
Remember: if you have done it once you can surely do it again — your muscle will always have the good memories of dance, and you will be swaying in style soon. Don’t ever let your hiatus take you away from your passion — that’s why the famous saying goes “Once a dancer, always a dancer.”