Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 9/12/2009

Question
Hello, I an retaking ballet classes since I stopped about two years ago. I am really glad to be coming back, but for some reason, I'm scared at what will happen to me in ballet. I have six to seven years of experience (I'm fourteen years old) and would like to go pro, but I also want to become a pro violinist (I also take classes for that). Also, I worry about injuries at class. I heard the story of a young ballerina being paralyzed from the waist down because of a terrible accident, and I don't want to end up like her! Am I being scared for a good reason, or am I just letting my nerves get to me? Thank you if you could read this.

Answer
Hi Rocio. All dance injuries can be avoided with correct technique. True understanding of anatomy and how your joints and muscles work allows you to work properly in class. Also you have seven years behind you with no drastic events, and most likely your future dancing will be disaster free.

At this point however, I believe any dance teacher or violin teacher would tell you to choose - while you could be an exception, most individuals would need to focus strictly on one of those two fields, as they are both very demanding.

I am not a doctor, but I will tell you what my experience is after observing many hard working dance students and patients in places I've worked, when it comes to sensitive nerves and fears. Nutrition in number one. For example a vitamin B complex deficiency causes mental confusion and nervousness.In particular a vitamin B12 and B6 deficiency aggravates this too.

A magnesium or calcium/magnesium deficiency also leaves the nervous system edgy, and leaves muscles unable to relax - not good for dancers! Poor sleeping, same.

Many chiropractors, and naturopaths are versed in correcting these deficiencies with natural remedies. Neck adjustments also relax the nervous system.

Brains need amino acids, or proteins, first thing in the morning. If you don't eat protein food or take an appropriate supplement first thing, there are certain brain chemicals that don't activate at all!

So yes, I think you are letting your nerves get to you too much, but I don't think you need to try and control that with will power - nutrition and changing thinking patterns will help you a lot.

Go to http://www.balletshoesandpointeshoes.blogspot.com/

Down on the left side is a picture with "Train Your Brain" on it. That link will take you to a site where you can buy that book. It's not expensive and it will give you some techniques that will re-train your thought processes and help you with positive thinking. This will give you a way to handle the pressure and competition whether in dancing or music.

These are just ideas for you to follow up on. Use google and you'll find tons of information on vitamins and also on how the body works. On the link I gave you above, there are many articles about ballet technique, correct ballet positions, and how to prevent common injuries like sprained ankles, knee sprains, and more.

Hopefully you'll proceed with your inspirations to perform dance and music, but you'll ENJOY it!

All the best, Dianne