The dance environment represents a microcosm of the outside world in many ways. From a wellness coaching perspective, this speaks to dimensional models of wellness, including physical, emotional, social, spiritual, intellectual, environmental, and occupational components. These dimensions function collectively to foster a balanced perspective for holistic wellness and well-being (Figure 1). Numerous models have been developed with varying numbers of dimensions based on Jack Travis’ Illness/Wellness Continuum (Arloski, 2014). Wellness encompasses the entire continuum in order to fully address the whole person and all aspects of their lives.

The foundation of Travis’ model is the utilization and transformation of energy flow for mind/body, and how it's transmitted into the universe (Arloski, 2014). This involves an awareness of eating, breathing, and sensing, along with the other dimensions. Sensing and movement play a huge role in the life of a dancer. We often consider physical health aspects, but fail to address mental health issues of dancers. Since thoughts and feelings are interconnected, our beliefs and worldview shape our state of health at any given time.

Let’s take a closer look at how these wellness dimensions translate to the dance context:

This domain entails nourishing the body (and mind) through movement, exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep.

Exercise: Dancing requires a great deal of energy and stamina for proper form and movement during long hours of practice and rehearsal. Cross-training is beneficial for building strength, flexibility, and endurance, such as a combination of cardio, weight-training, yoga, Pilates, and swimming. By varying workouts, overuse injuries are reduced, and balanced muscle development is promoted. There are mental health benefits of cross-training related to stress-reduction, brain functioning, and mental resilience. Acquiring new skills also helps prevent burnout, and leads to more optimal performance outcomes.

Nutrition: To achieve and maintain optimal health and prevent injuries, dancers need a balanced diet of carbs, protein, and healthy fats. A combination of these macronutrients and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) are often recommended. Research indicates pre-professional ballet and contemporary dancers frequently have negative energy balance and low energy availability (Rigoli, 2024), but don’t necessarily seek........

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