The fact that you consider yourself to be a "bigger dancer" says a lot about this industry. Thank you Katie for making this video. I am looking forward to seeing real change in the ballet world during my lifetime
@kathryn_morgan
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much!
@Poppy-
3 жыл бұрын
@ from what I recall, she mentioned that they (whomever at Miami) told her that she was pretty much a nobody, that she was not good enough and that she couldn't make a living of KZitem and she didn't have that much of supporters. That is just nasty! She helped me and so many others to improve physically and mentally with her good vibes and positive comments. I wish I could meet her and have a real class with her. And yes, she is slim. I totally agree with you and Royal ballet comparison. I saw French dancers... That's another story (45kg/90lbs) 😢
@CorinnePina
Жыл бұрын
@tutugirlkem I was told at 13 that I was « too fat » for doing pointe. I was 5´5´´ and 105 pounds. After that I developed anorexia and went down to 92 pounds. I stayed around there for about 12 years and did a lot of damage to my body. 30 years later , I’m still struggling, but have a healthy weight. I’m so greatful that Kathryn created this community and we can all enjoy ballet again!
@dronesclubhighjinks
Жыл бұрын
@@CorinnePina That’s awful! I’m so sorry. 5 foot 5 and 105 pounds is very slim. The teacher was cruel and ridiculously wrong. I was watching a documentary on Russian rhythmic gymnastics from 2016. Yana Kudryatseva and Margarita Mamun were both 5 foot 7. Yana was 105 and Rita was 115 and she was basically considered plus size. They are both gorgeous. There’s actually a documentary which is on KZitem that follows Rita’s year leading up to the Olympics. The coaches are very abusive. There are English subtitles and there are comments saying that the translations are more gentle than what was actually said. I’m probably around the same age as you but I was never a dancer. I was in quite a few sports but never at the elite level, which is a good thing because I have since discovered that coaches for all kinds of sports can also create eating disorders even when the sport has nothing to do with weight or aesthetics. It’s a method of controlling the athlete. It’s messed up and it even affects adults when they get a new coach like that. Examples: Dara Torres USA swimmer and Clara Hughes CAN cyclist and speed skater. Both are Olympic medalists! Your teacher is the one who had a problem and she was getting some kind of twisted satisfaction out of being mean to her students. I don’t know why there are people like that but there are. I’m sure you never would’ve said that to another girl though. Or to a boy. I don’t think they have it that easy either. I’m glad you’re better now. I love this channel as well. I think she can do so much good! Best wishes to you! 💐 (Edit: typos)
@Missfrankiecat
3 жыл бұрын
It's useful to hear this even as a non-dancer (who loves watching ballet). Most women (and many men) are conditioned to dislike their appearance more than they appreciate their bodies, let alone the rest of what makes us human. For ballet fans, the visual beauty and, to us, apparent perfection of the bodies on display can be another blow to our own self esteem if we spend time comparing ourselves, unrealistically, to others.
@kathryn_morgan
3 жыл бұрын
I agree!
@felicitase9727
3 жыл бұрын
As a dancer who struggles with body image and disordered eating, this was just what I needed. I have noticed that I stopped enjoying ballet classes because everytime I look into that mirror, I only see my flaws and thats all I can think about. I constantly compare to my classmates and completely forget that it should be about passion and feeling good while dancing. And I don‘t even want to be a professional ballerina but I somehow expect myself to look and dance perfectly in class.... Thank you Katie, I needed this!
@sagewiseman8790
3 жыл бұрын
"You were born perfect. You were born worthy." WOAH
@mariaiavrian7724
3 жыл бұрын
Jesus tells us this as well beautifuly and fearfully made ❤️❤️❤️❤️🥰 Jesus loves you :) have a wonderful day beauty
@AleahZucchi
3 жыл бұрын
“If your happy doing what your doing, than nobody can tell you your not successful” - Harry styles
@theconservatory1132
3 жыл бұрын
As a teacher, YES - it MUST be about the students. Your time is done, and you must have a healthy psychological outlook and peace about where you are. A teacher’s issues do not belong in a classroom, and if a teacher has unresolved issues, neither do they. A teacher’s job is to nurture, inspire and create safe spaces for learning. And you MUST LOVE THEM ALL.
@Dantaru78
3 жыл бұрын
I’m not a dancer, but you were definitely spittin’ truth during this video.
@sagewiseman8790
3 жыл бұрын
I was thinking "woah how did she know that was exactly what I needed to hear" and then I realised that this is a *universal* thing.
@jengirl2
3 жыл бұрын
Powerful. Had me in tears...so honest, such truth. I wish I could’ve heard this back when I was young but it is just as important and inspiring as a 38 yr old. Going to try to “own it” a bit more today. Thank you Kathryn.
@Poppy-
3 жыл бұрын
"It has nothing to do with you" this is so through in many situations, in many contexts. I do try to apply that as much as I can. A life coach said: "Their emotions belongs to them. The situation is neutral and you choose how you feel about it". It's so accurate and less stressful. Please do show us the dressing gown ☺️ and crystal, and porcelain, and silverware... I love ALL of your videos. Thank so much for what you are doing for us. (I gained/lost weight and lost ½ my hair too due to illness 🤷🏽♀️)
@kathryn_morgan
3 жыл бұрын
Yes I agree. And thank you! I will work on that!
@pippascode481
3 жыл бұрын
i am 12 and im a ballet dancer. my DREAM is to become a professional ballet dancer. the only thing thats been holding me back from auditioning for ballet schools is how i look. i am 5’0” and 120lbs. but i workout everyday and eat healthy but i will never have a very skinny body because of my genetics my family has a larger build but this video made me feel better thank u so much
@kka887
3 жыл бұрын
"Yeah, I'm wearin' fake hair, y'all! Don't it look good?" From a fellow Gulf Coast girl... loved this moment! And the whole thing... life gets so much better when you own who you are. I am a busty dancer, and it has taken me to 33 years old feel comfortable not wearing a restricting bra. I feel so much freer when I dance!
@homebodiespilates3533
3 жыл бұрын
Where do I get me some of the hair!? 😂😂😂I love it!
@lanelmuhammad
3 жыл бұрын
Katie... once again you hit the nail on the head. As a male who does NOT have abs and ideal ballet "physique" I needed this. I see Steven Mcrea and Vadim Muntagirov and I'm like 😭😩i'll never look like that. Katie keep doing what you're doing.
@kathryn_morgan
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much! And thank you for chiming in. I really appreciate it.
@evak6391
3 жыл бұрын
Didn’t Steven McRae recently have a post on Instagram regarding body image? Long story short, he was receiving comments about being too muscle-y compared to 4-5 years ago. No matter how *something* you are, there is always someone who has something negative to say. Impossible to please everyone, probably safest to only take cues from what you yourself think of yourself in life and in the mirror. Edit: the post was on 22 September 2020
@lanelmuhammad
3 жыл бұрын
@@evak6391 yes I remember that post. It was really eye opening to see a male principle speaking like that. Your right
@nadia_matulich
3 жыл бұрын
Goodness, I wish I could have heard this when I was 16. Thank you so much for this Katie! This is something so many of us need to hear.
@kathryn_morgan
3 жыл бұрын
I wish I had learned this early, too! xoxo
@madeline2282
3 жыл бұрын
"Yeah, I wear a dressing gown--I have a new one by the way, I should show you guys--" Katie you're wonderful 😂
@pheart2381
3 жыл бұрын
Partly why I started making my own clothes. I dont Like modern clothes,they arn't me. Now I can make my style what I want. Thanks to lockdown I'm quite competant now! I couldnt give a stuff what anyone thinks.
@lanelmuhammad
3 жыл бұрын
18:20 WHEN THE TRACKS CAME OUT I THREW MY PHONE😩😩😭😂 GO KATIE!!! That is my mood all 2021!! Living FREE and SECURE in who we are😂😂😩ahhh I love this channel ♥️
@lilliekellam9910
3 жыл бұрын
As someone who struggled with disordered eating, you don’t want to lose a year of your life just because the mirror said you weren’t good enough. Once you start actually feeding yourself you can actually start to love dance!! No matter how much weight you lose it’ll never be enough! Trust me, the mirror lies! You are worthy of food! You are worthy of love! Have an amazing day ♥️
@leilag.1515
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much... I had to give up ballet for years because of anorexia... now I recovered and I am too afraid to dance again... thanks for giving me faith. You are amazing 🥺❤️ #itsnotaboutweight
@Emily-hd9sm
3 жыл бұрын
You can do it! Even if it's just dancing at home for joy, without any pressure or strings attached, I hope you can bring dance into your life in a healthy way again 💗
@floridaoceaner123
3 жыл бұрын
I recently had this realization with shorts. My whole life I felt so insecure about my legs that I would never ever wear shorts. Well, it took me 25 years, but I finally got to the point where I just didn't care anymore. It was hot outside, I wanted to wear shorts to be more comfortable, so I did. And everything was grand and the world didn't end. So now, I finally actually don't care about my legs anymore. It's so freeing!
@junebug2705
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this Kathryn!💖 your my biggest inspiration and your videos really spread awareness about subjects like this.
@kathryn_morgan
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you!
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for this Katie! Not gonna lie, I stopped dancing a few years ago because even though I really love my body, I still felt like my boobs were too big and my turnout too non-existent and my Achilles not flexible enough... and I quitted before I took the criticism too much at heart. But watching your videos really made me fall in love with ballet all over again so thanks again for your impact on KZitem🥰🤗
@Barbiegirlmomma
3 жыл бұрын
I love your hair the color is really pretty and you look healthy
@kathryn_morgan
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@cfr1985
3 жыл бұрын
Not so long ago I was told to stop eating for a couple of days to fit in a tutu ( this was for a ballet recital; I am an adult ballet dancer). While the comment threw me off, I’m glad this was said to me at 25 and not 15, because that would’ve had a huge detriment on my mental health and self image. As a 25 yro who used to be an athlete, my physic is athletic, I am 5’8 and weight 145lb. I am not super skinny but I am healthy and throughout the years I’ve learn to love myself and treat my body with love and respect, we all have different shapes and body types, but that comment didn’t had much on an impact in me because I am aware that my health is far more important that fitting in a tutu or hurting myself. So thank you so much Kathy for always being so outspoken in this toxic environment in the ballet world. Your words mean so much to me and many others, so thank you ❤️
@tessacyclone6329
3 жыл бұрын
How can you dance if you didn't eat? What about the krebs cycle!
@lyndabethcave3835
3 жыл бұрын
As a costumer this makes me cranky. If a garment doesn't fit, it's the GARMENT that needs to be altered, not the person wearing it.
@marinalopes3368
3 жыл бұрын
Amazing topic. As a plus size dancer I feel like it's important to discuss this, even to tell professionals they are always worth it and there is no perfect body type for dancing in the professional world. All are different, all are worth it
@Pluizje1998
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this video! I love how you use your channel to talk about things like this
@DestinyHopeLou
3 жыл бұрын
I‘m currently really struggling with my mental health. (Don‘t worry, I‘m getting professional help) This week has been so terrible and even though your video can‘t cure my depression but it still feels very nice to hear some positive things. Thank you.
@Poppy-
3 жыл бұрын
Sending you positive vibe 💞. It takes as long as it takes. Been there, several times. Wishing you all the best and stay positive 🌞
@kathryn_morgan
3 жыл бұрын
So much love to you!
@NixG97
3 жыл бұрын
I wish the best for you! I have also had mental health struggles for many years. While it is difficult to go through and to try get better, it is possible. Sending love and positivity xx
@gloriouslyimperfect
3 жыл бұрын
The light on the other side of the darkness you’re feeling now is truly a beautiful thing. Bravo for getting the help you need. That’s not always easy to do!
@DestinyHopeLou
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you all so much! I really appreciate all your support. ❤️
@yvngmangoo575
3 жыл бұрын
As a plus sized dancer this is very motivating and moving!! Thank you very much Kathryn!! Always so inspiring!
@Pluizje1998
3 жыл бұрын
Also 18:19 Wig snatched 😅😂
@kilandrayeuxdoux2804
3 жыл бұрын
:) Thank you for this. This can also work for other fields as well. And I also think and believe that dance studios should avoid having mirrors everywhere. If they are required only have a portion of the room with them. And again Thank you!
@bellamykopesec8224
3 жыл бұрын
This was exactly what I needed to hear today, thank you. Dealing with accepting yourself, abusive teachers, and finding value outside of dance (in my case theatre too) has taken so much time, and I’m not quite there yet. You speak with such truth and wisdom.
@Walkinthewoods-u2q
3 жыл бұрын
What you said about “when you’re at the end of your life will you really care how you looked like in a leotard?”-really makes sense, thank you!!💕
@rebeccamutyaba6623
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you, I really needed to hear this. I am the heaviest dancer in my ballet class (nor am I the most flexible or have the best technique) and I was thinking about dropping the class just because of that. My body image is not the best. I've had a lot of teachers, as well as my family, comment on how I look whenever they could and this always made me hate myself for not fitting the mold of the "perfect dancer". Hearing what you had to say and how you spoke about being proud to be yourself and standing out, really put things into perspective for me. So thank you for that
@emersonstout7608
3 жыл бұрын
i've been having body image issues recently and i am so thankful that you posted this. i can't wait to take your advice and begin to feel better about myself.
@kathryn_morgan
3 жыл бұрын
You are worthy! Remember that!
@reginaphalange7992
3 жыл бұрын
Kathryn this video was just a whole new level of realness. I really hope you know what a positive impact you are having on younger dancers and the dance world in general. The perfect way to brighten up a dull Thursday ✨
@sagewiseman8790
3 жыл бұрын
3:15 I said it out loud and IMMEDIATELY started sobbing I love you so much
@cece121234
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this timely message. And thank you for your candor and wisdom, you are a wonderful example for all of us, even for those of us who don't dance professionally.
@kathryn_morgan
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much!
@ScrubNSqueeze
3 жыл бұрын
I remember being one of the skinniest dancers in the company I was in, and still our teacher/director said my perfect weight would be losing 1-2 pounds. That was before I grew boobs and hips too. I’m so glad I didn’t stay at that company.
@tammystiletto
3 жыл бұрын
I absolutely love the part where you said when a teacher says “why is your leg jiggling??” Rather than “use the muscle in the back of your leg” and that a teacher that speaks like that is NASTY. I had a teacher that did not touch on body issues but refused to teach me. She claimed I was old enough I should already know what I should do. She’s ask “why is this happening??” And I’d be terrified. If I said “it’s this” and was right she’d berate me for not doing that in the first place. If I said “I don’t know why that’s happening” then she’s be just as nasty and claim that she shouldn’t have to correct me “at this age”. She was ageist. She had aged out so she thought everyone else had to also. That was a few years ago but I’m still trying to get over the trauma. I realize what a sick sad individual she is. I realize how much she must be hurting and how lashing out at students isn’t making her better, it just feeds her inner demons. I realize it had nothing to do with me. I realize that there are so many other athletes looking to see someone else defying ageist mindsets and fake rules people set up. It still hurts. But it had nothing to do with who I am.
@umacallegari2351
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for this video, it feels good to hear people talking about it this way I struggled for a really long time with body image, but I realised i didn't want other people's opinions of my body or character to influence the type of person I wanted to be. It was a slow process, and I sometimes see things I don't like about myself in the mirror but it doesn't paralyze me anymore Your channel, among other things, has helped me a lot with that, so thank you so much for what you do
@kathryn_morgan
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much!
@meagannorbury8914
3 жыл бұрын
Just Wowww.... Thank you for putting this video up. I really needed to hear to hear this again. As someone who has struggled with body image for so many years from competitive Irish dance and being a lean but curvy dancer it really helps put things in perspective. To my old teacher/judges I was never thin enough even when I had no weight left to loose and my legs and chest were always to big and I wouldn’t ever be in a company because I was to short and women like. I’m so very thankful that now I have such amazing ballet, jazz and other dance style teachers who are body positive and really do believe I can go on to be a professional dancer in some capacity. The first time I took a ballet class with a body positive teacher it was so lovely but I honestly didn’t even know how to react... I’m finding as well when I’m teaching acro or gymnastics and dance I make sure to support and uplift the kids I work with because I never want to be like the teachers I had when I was young. It’s taken me till 20 to acknowledge that my worth has not been defined by my weight or my past. Kathryn you are so kind and honestly have been a big help in the videos you post like this one today thank you for everything you do!
@cheryle3256
3 жыл бұрын
I'm not a dancer, but I needed to hear this so much. Thank you!
@sagewiseman8790
3 жыл бұрын
I feel like my big sister is giving me a pep talk I love this
@kathryn_morgan
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you Sage!
@TheConfidentDancer
3 жыл бұрын
Your point about how some teachers are still projecting their hurt and unfulfilled dreams onto their students is SO correct! We teachers especially need to do our own inner work to be sure that we are leading our students in a way that is truly edifying for them. Thank you for making this great video!
@whatdoyousuppose
3 жыл бұрын
So I left classical ballet at age 12 and have been forever scarred 🙃 I hope to be able to dance again for fun in a safer environment that won’t retraumatize me now that I’m an adult and know how to deal a little better. But now I’m a professional singer in musical theatre & opera. I have been performing as classic fairytale princesses for about 5 years now and performed as cartoon characters at theme parks. I can relate SO heavily to this. It’s just so ingrained in the performing arts no matter what field, this is an issue that can affect anyone whose body is on display for an audience. At the end of the day, it’s not *me* who is a cartoon princess, I’m my own human being! The industry is so visual, you’re taught that you’re instantly replaceable by someone else who is cast to look exactly like you do and pose in photographs exactly like you do and speak and act and perform exactly like you do - after enough time, it really gets to you! But comparison is the thief of joy. I have been saying this to myself every day when I start to fall into old habits, it’s a reminder I need to hear all the time because it’s so true and so prevalent. Also absolutely, this doesn’t excuse the bad behavior but some of the biggest abusers in performing arts/entertainment have some SERIOUS unresolved issues. I think every performing artist & teaching instructor should go to therapy, it truly changed my life. My mental health isn’t perfect every day, but at least I have the self awareness to know where in my mind these thoughts are coming from and am constantly learning coping mechanisms to get rid of thoughts that are not helpful to me as a performer. So much of it boils down to stuff that is out of my control. I really needed to hear this, from one performing artist to another, I thank you for being so open to talk about the real stuff that affects so many of us! ❤️
@juliacurran8961
3 жыл бұрын
So true! Remember that your body image is stored in your brain cells, not in your fat cells. It’s all about the mindset. ✨❤️
@spolums
3 жыл бұрын
Katie, you are so beautiful, graceful, and elegant in any way shape and form. We all love you. ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜 Ps. I have a tiny wast too! PPs. Can we have more once upon a pointe please?
@brileyw9758
3 жыл бұрын
so im not large but i watched myself dance and i seemed idk... my stomach was farther out and i just dont know how to fix that. i have ADHD and my meds make me not hungry but i think i might have the opposite. everyone tells me im " too thin" "eat more" or "you cant do anything till you eat" but im just not hungry. but thin everyone's telling me im to "thin" but i dont see myself that way
@Velvet_Wings9
3 жыл бұрын
I am a 25 year old who started ballet at the age of 20 and you can imagine how I felt at the beginning cause I didn’t look like a ballerina. And I wanted to look like one so bad it was bad for me and my health. And in time I realized that it is the love of dance that counts and the joy it brings to me. You are a big inspiration to me! Love you!
@arshibhayani1471
3 жыл бұрын
Hi Katie you made me feel so much better about myself so thank you for that ❤️
@JustMe-qr9jj
3 жыл бұрын
My daughter is 15 and I've noticed something interesting that goes along with your story of teachers. My dd is an amazing dancer but not stick thin. Older women do not like my daughter! I know it sounds crazy but it is TRUE! Every audition, every master class where there has been an older female (usually a retired dancer), my daughter is invisible. Now auditions with men, no matter the age or whether they were a dancer, they love her! Idk what it is, I have some ideas but it's the most bizarre thing ever. Every SI audition season, if there is an female (specifically over about 50) my daughter says, "well, I'm not getting in." Last year she auditioned for Charlotte Ballet, it was a man and she got in. Same story with Chicago Ballet. Almost all auditions with females she was rejected. The one exception was Orlando Ballet but the girl was young.
@kathryn_morgan
3 жыл бұрын
That's so interesting, but not surprising! I've seen this happen a lot.
@JustMe-qr9jj
3 жыл бұрын
@@kathryn_morgan It is truly a mystery. The only thing I can think is that maybe they are looking for mirror images of themselves. Because let's face it. the majority of ballet mistresses are tiny little things. I will link your video to my daughter
@JustMe-qr9jj
3 жыл бұрын
@@kathryn_morgan Have to add this story! My dd auditioned for Ballet Met 2 years ago and on the form you fill out you can have them consider you for trainee. For whatever reason, BMet takes young dancers as trainees. Anyway, no names here but the (very older) woman auditioning her came out after as we were gathering our things and wanted to sit down with me and my daughter. She said, "you are a very good dancer. You are very strong and your musicality is good but I do have some concerns. Your core is a little week, you need to do sit ups. Do you do sit ups?" :D I'm laughing now but let's just say that the conversation ended with me having the last word and the drive home was NOT a good one. Haha. Last year she auditioned again and it was a man and she got in. No joke. Before the audition she saw that it was a guy and she said, "oh mom, thank God, I'm getting in this year!" It literally broke my heart Kathryn.
@luciak9999
3 жыл бұрын
This is SO true! My mom and I noticed this all the time. Whenever I would go to master classes taught by men they were always kind and instructive! They made sure everyone got something out of the class. Yet every time I went to a master class taught by a women (with the exception of Suki Schorer) I was dissed and treated terribly. To the point that the last master class I went to I spent the entire time thinking to myself “I don’t belong here, they don’t want me here, I shouldn’t be here.” I honestly don’t remember anything else about that class but that. And that was the last master class I went to because I was so hurt I wouldn’t go to anymore because I was so tired of being treated that way.
@etude83
3 жыл бұрын
As someone in a thoroughly unrelated field, I can echo this experience. For some reason, when I was a young trainee, there were certain older females in supervisory positions who would inexplicably terrorize some of the more ingenue-like trainees. I thought it was me, until other supervisors told me it had nothing to do with me. Just their own "stuff," and the envy that ensued. How I wish I had known that sooner...
@LouisaRubyDDD
3 жыл бұрын
Your hair tracks look amazing! Yes own them! Thank you so much for this video! I became such a bitter and jealous person the more competitive I got with dance and I am finally doing the work to heal that part of myself. Everything you said is spot on. Thanks for sharing!
@oliviawallisjackson337
3 жыл бұрын
This is so important, especially in the era of zoom. Professional training on zoom makes body image especially difficult! Thank you for this.
@brendaswanson6629
3 жыл бұрын
You so brave to talk about this and to be a beautiful beautiful dancer... I see that your doing what you love doing...and I think your my idol...being late middle age women embracing my ballet dreams... I very much love and watch your videos in order to elongate and stretch my body out of pain from arthritis...I depend on you doing these videos💝😥
@emalinewitcher8233
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for sharing this message. I no longer dance, but when I was younger I did. My teacher was horrible. I quit due to health reasons and I was told I was too fat to go en point. I was twelve. I've struggled with an eating disorder for so long and have finally been in recovery for about a year. My body has changed. My body is not ideal to many but I am still here. And I do still struggle. But messages like yours help keep me going. I've always loved ballet and finding your channel had just furthered my love for the art. I cannot dance due to health, but I go to watch my local ballet company as often as I can. I thank you so much for being such a kind and honest person. I hope you continue to thrive 💕
@jessieborrell1856
3 жыл бұрын
I'm not a dancer (though I do take adult classes in pre-covid times) but this conversation is so important. One thing that I think helps a lot is honestly just getting older. I used to struggle a lot with my body image and would get obsessive with what size I was and how much I weighed. As I've gotten older (I'm 32 now) I honestly just don't care as much and care more about being healthy versus a particular size to fit a particular standard. Oddly enough, taking ballet has helped me a lot to be even more comfortable with myself. It forced me out of my comfort zone and you can't hide in a leotard and tights but it felt like to me, once I wore that for the first time, I no longer really cared what people thought in or out of the studio. I wear what I like and what I feel good in! Wonderful advice, Katie
@beatrizsalgadocardosodeoli5452
3 жыл бұрын
You are so brave! I am glad someone's speaking about these taboos. I started dancing only with 21. Now I'm 31. Even if I make it clear that ballet is a hobby, though I take it very seriously, I heard a lot of bad things about my body. It almost made me quitting dancing.
@em8559
3 жыл бұрын
Hearing from you that the "one bad comment in a sea of wonderful ones" takes you down sounds really sad to me. Katie, let me say that I truly appreciate you being so honest and outspoken to us hoping to reach others, especially aspiring dancers, who are struggeling too - and I'm completely sure you do reach them. I'm just watching your content as being someone interested in the ballet world, and it is truly widening my small perspective from the outside on it. And I keep watching, because I can't otherwise but adore you for your honesty and humility barely seen today in our "picture perfect" social media world. Thank you! For not trying to be picture perfect! Thank you for being you even on a social media platform! ❤ We love you Katie! Have a wonderful day!
@kathryn_morgan
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much!
@cutenoterchen
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the authentic sharing!
3 жыл бұрын
Whoever sees this post, whether you're a dancer or not, watch this video, cause I think it's something that we all struggle with... Our self worth is waaaay too much hung up on the external things or situations we are currently living through (whether it is the rank that we want to achieve, or the roles or the projects we want to do)... We are worthy of existing and we are worthy of existing and worthy of love just because we are here, now, living this thing called life... As someone who had to rebuild their self image from scratch (and is frankly still working on it), I can tell you, that hanging your dreams and happiness upon a certain role or a certain external thing does not work... Cause what will happen when that thing comes? You are still you and you are still the same level of lonely as you were before. So, please, start appreciating and taking care (and your mental health) of yourselves today... And maybe (just maybe), once the world starts up again, well be better prepared for what comes next... And the last thing, I wanna say, is to the ballet community and the teachers... We need to drop this 19th/20th idea of what discipline means... Discipline is not berating your students and insulting them... That is simply a way of projecting your own broken psyche onto someone else... There's a way of giving corrections and reaching whomever, without emotionally abusing them... As I always say, the way to truly determine if the choreographer/teacher/ballet master is fulfilled in their life, look at how they treat the most vulnerable in the company/class... There are many examples I could point to... For example my mind immediately jumps to the time of working with Vladimir Malakhov on HNK Zagreb's Swan Lake... He worked us like crazy, making sure not a single hand or a head, was out of place... But he treated each and every one of us (from the highest principals, to the corps de ballet) like a human being... See, this is how you do it... So, to sum up... You are worthy of love and respect, no matter of what the external circumstances in your life may be, ... Remember that...
@laneylee56
3 жыл бұрын
Hi Kathryn! I’m 17 and hadn’t had the chance to start dancing until I was 15 ironically ballet and your video’s what helped me get out of disordered eating. Thankyou thankyou so much for helping me with helping me learn ballet! classes are expensive and your videos are the reason why I am where I am now!
@laneylee56
3 жыл бұрын
Ok not ironic with the video part just the ballet
@dorisrapino8694
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us. You look fabulous.
@lunal4057
3 жыл бұрын
Great video! But it's so exhausting to think that no matter how much work you can do on yourself (in the dance world specifically) the people in charge, at the helms of companies, determine that women should look like girls. What will it take to have an industry that doesn't award being underweight and by result non menstruating?
@brendaswanson6629
3 жыл бұрын
Haha the girls at the YMCA seen my butt in my dance ware...they walk by laughing... While I was happy and pouring sweat..feeling amazing...feeling strong and balanced...I was just Cloning around after doing my ballet videos...and also your wonderful video... Spining my very first pirrote at the age of 48 ... It was the best day in my life..I felt I achieved something huge (to me anyway😃) Thank you!! From my heart! Thank you!!
@ABDR._.
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you very much and good luck 💖
@kylanhiggs7536
3 жыл бұрын
Wonderful message! I think your hair looks fabulous even without the hair extension!
@mojcagal8364
3 жыл бұрын
Dear Katie, thank you so much for talking about this topic. I also had a hell of a journey as performing artist...one tries to please everyone else, the teachers, etc., oftentimes getting caught in a vicious circle of self destructive criticism, scrutinizing every little thing that needs some improvement. And in the end, one is frustrated instead of fulfilled. I needed to land in a deep crisis to realize that I had two options: change my whole attitude towards my art, or change my profession. And as I had nothing more to lose, feeling as down, I changed my attitude. And the moment I started to own what I was, everything started improving. The more I was myself, the more joy I had as an artist. And feedback from outside started changing accordingly. But it didn't matter that much any more, as I started to be at peace with myself. Of course one still works and improves, but it becomes more relaxed and constructive. So...thank you from all my heart, it is so important to speak about that and so rarely spoken about.
@JasmineMcDonald
3 жыл бұрын
I wish I heard this in my young adult years. My school was phenomenal to me and helped me achieve my ballet dream, but after ballet school in company life, it wasn't just teachers telling me I was too fat it was also other dancers. Other dancers used to tell me to my face that they could see my stomach jiggling. So nice and supportive. I danced in eastern Europe for four years and every year after the holiday I was always told to lose 10 pounds in a very short amount of time. I remember one time I got badly injured and I was told to "eat only fruit without sugar" since I would be in bed most of the time. I had a stress fracture in my femur because I wasn't taking care of myself. I could hardly walk to the bathroom.
@aleyska4997
3 жыл бұрын
Kathryn, it is so comforting to hear that even a succsessfull professional dancer with such a great career stands in front of the mirror trying on many many different leotards/outfits before showing herself in it. I struggled with that so much and only wore black leotards and longer skirts for class and such to try and hide my body, because I felt like I HAD to. Now I am still self concsious but I do own a pink and a green leotard now and I love them so much and wear them proudly!
@brendadufaur37
Жыл бұрын
You are NEVER rambling. I take in every word. Please know that you don't ramble. The longer the better. An absolutely fantastic video.
@minituxy1
3 жыл бұрын
At the end of the life, you will think: " well I had such a healthy and good-looking body back then. Why didn't I enjoy it instead of torturing myself with other people opinions?". My grandma's own word. As a ballet passionate, I used to be so ashamed of my average body; but as a physician now, I am so happy to own such a fonctionnal and healthy one and to have understood why my "lack" of turnout is actually just the average biomechanics of hip joint !
@melissaagz
3 жыл бұрын
I am 14 years old. I’ve been dancing for a while, but I look “bigger” because of my genetics. My teacher considers me fat (keep in mind I am 14, 5’4, and 115 pounds.) I just have hips and a wider frame. Realistically I know that I am a healthy weight, but I still hate myself. It’s hard to love myself when people around me are constantly reminding me that I am not beautiful.
@rebekkalili296
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for this, for speaking truth and for being who you are. I am a middle aged amateur who is slim and old enough not to worry much about my weight and looks, but that's mostly just lucky coincidence. And I worry so much about the general trend in ballet and what it does to young dancers in training. Why does everyone have to be so extremely thin and elongated? I think professional dancers should have more varied body types, and this is something we should, especially as audiences, ask of ballet companies.
@AmyBrueckman
3 жыл бұрын
This is SO IMPORTANT. I'm not a ballet dancer (I just do it for funsies at home), but I think one of the most toxic parts of any profession is comparing yourself to others. When I was in grad school, that's all I did and it made me miserable. Now if I look at other people, my mindset has shifted to being inspired by them instead of comparing myself to them. I'll think more like... oh, what this person is working on is super cool! Here's what *I* am working on! Because everyone is different, especially in the arts!
@megs3180
3 жыл бұрын
I'm not a ballet dancer. I left dancing when I was 12 years old, because I was told that I was too curvy. Set me up for a lifelong battle with eating disorders. What I find so ridiculous is that I look at you and I see someone who is very thin (not too thin, but thin). The fact that the ballet world thinks you're overweight really says something about the industry. And keep in mind that I regularly went to the ballet (pre-COVID, of course). I had season tickets to NYC Ballet back when I lived in the city. So it can't just be about what the audience wants. Also, if you're struggling with an eating disorder, I highly recommend Overeaters Anonymous. I've been in it for almost ten years after nearly dying from bulimia. It saved my life. If you want more information, please message me.
@naamahnotorious955
3 жыл бұрын
I never danced ballet. My parents wouldn't let me and considering my kinda obsessive way of learning about things I love, I now (at 41) understand them. I'm a physical therapist and I have always worked with kids and youngsters. I often tell them at the end of their life, what they have, what they own won't be important. The newest Iphone, the latest clothing from labels, whatever it is that is occupying their existence at that moment that is material, it's not important. It's the people around you who shared your life experiences. THAT is what's important. The ones who stand next to you through thick and thin.
@samanthamurphy5107
3 жыл бұрын
LOVING to see the 0 dislikes! We all love you and your message
@dancingindandelions555
3 жыл бұрын
Could you make a video or answer my question? My Bloch pointe shoes have been really great so far but recently the block has completely worn out ! Their is glossy plastic underneath and is super slippery! I asked my teachers and they didn’t know what to do! 😨😰😱
@daretodance9281
3 жыл бұрын
You say it took you a decade to be where you're at now with body image/ self-esteem and you're still not all the way there every day- however I do believe that young dancers watching this video, if they take it seriously, can knock at least 5 years off of that journey. You're right, it takes time, but I think you've gifted us all with a massive shortcut by being so honest about your experiences, so thank you!
@naturebound2901
3 жыл бұрын
I'm not a professional dancer, just a 48 year old woman who loves to dance. I have knock knees, short waist, big butt, narrow shoulders...but I also have beautiful long arms and legs, high arches, small breasts. Unfortunately some of my attributes such as knock knees has caused major problems such as shin splints, stress fractures and knee twisting to compensate. So in a way body type has affected my ability to dance in certain ways and these have had to be addressed with teachers, physical therapist and ortho doctor. When I was a preprofessional ballet student in the 80s I was tormented by instructors for my body type, and told frankly I would never be a ballet dancer. Now I dance hiding in empty studios at my local ymca. I took adult ballet classes a few years ago and was treated so much better but years of restricting, low body weight and osteoporosis lead to too many injuries to continue a full ballet class. Very hard not to feel like a complete failure yet when I dance none of it matters.
@nataschacharliecamen
3 жыл бұрын
Your words are very beautiful and absolutely true!!!!!Iam 53 years old today and i still cant handle it allways. And its a pitty that during my student and dancing time there was no Cathy Morgan around.... ...
@juliette3597
3 жыл бұрын
I remember your original leotard video when you didn't put any on and I had a feeling it was because you didn't think you'd look good in them all (and sure it would have taken forever) - but you looked so beautiful in the new one where you tried everything, and it wasn't about meeting some ideal perfect body image, but just looking beautiful and perfect just the way you are - which you did! I loved that video because I knew how stunning you looked and realized we don't look that different, so I must not look that bad either :). I so agree with everything you said here. And just the other day, I retook the oldest class video you have here and at the end - you actually apologize for your weight - that is one of the most heartbreaking moments on any of your videos, and in the interest of furthering This Message, I implore you to put a card on the end of that video that points dancers in the direction of this video. Because that content is still sitting there and the vulnerability is so poignant and important to this video here, that I think it's important that as long as its live you are also countering that with where you are now. I also just want to say, I cannot believe that with all you have done, you are still really the only dancer that is out there discussing these issues in this way. Please don't stop the discussion, because if you don't, apparently no one else will yet.
@user-hb3qv1eh5e
3 жыл бұрын
Its so bizzare. My friends and family call me a stick, twig like, which i agree with im very thin. But for some reason, when i put on those pink tights and look in the mirror, in ballet, i feel fat. Thanks for this.
@skaterbakes
3 жыл бұрын
I did pole dancing for 5 years but slowly stopped because I gained weight and couldn't stand to look at my body in the mirror no more...I mean I'm still dancing (I do aerial hoop now) but I thank you so much for this video xxxxx
@ClaireLeyden
3 жыл бұрын
We love you Katie
@brendaannedufaur6244
2 жыл бұрын
I just think you are a wonderful person. This video will help so many people in ballet or out of ballet. There are people with perfect figures who genuinely believe they are ugly. Sometimes it's a mental illness which causes that or it can be a reflection of an abusive growing up. There are people who are not necessarily great beauties physically or who are even at a very high weight and who may even be untalented yet they honor themselves for who they are and they are happy and people are drawn to them. They will sing off key but will be obliviously joyous! They see themselves in a positive light. They may even be obese but can be adored by a handsome young husband who feels like the luckiest person on the planet because they have a wife who's a wonderful person - her weight is either irrelevant or just gives more to love. I have seen that many times. Feeling great about yourself can also be a reflection of a very positive upbringing. Anyway, what a beautiful person you are, Kathryn. You must be one of the most likeable and genuine human beings on earth, with such a pure heart and such a desire to help people. You are open, honest, positive, and real. You are completely unpretentious. You show your imperfections. That's why you are so loved. I have to say that ballet is its own domain regarding body and weight. It is a high and great art that needs great, slender (not emaciated) bodies to perform the incredible feats and achieve the incredible artistry atop the incredible technique. All I can say is that I have been a balletomane for over 50 years and the incredible beauty I have taken in by male and female dancers has fed my soul and these dancers' have provided a high-level feast of great beauty that is indescribably wonderful. For a lifetime. Dancers over long decades have affected me. I can still see tapes of them although it was so very long ago that they were on-stage. And of course the great present-day dancers as well. Ballet dancers go to class every single day perfecting this great art that we behold. I am very, deeply grateful beyond words for their beauty because ballet dancers have provided the world something indescribably wonderful. Thank all of the high level dancers (definately includes corps de ballet) for suffering and going to the ballet bar every single day to create something so magnificent for the eyes and soul of humanity. I am eternally grateful.
@VeraHannaford
3 жыл бұрын
I've never been a dancer or anyone's standard of beauty in all my 58 years, but I'm a fan who enjoys dancing and your videos. I appreciate the things you share and wish you nothing but the best.
@mandaooi
3 жыл бұрын
Honestly didn’t know that even height played such a big role in the industry and i find it kinda crazy
@Romari7
3 жыл бұрын
As someone who struggles with body image issues, thank you Katie. This video had me tearing up a couple times, because everything you're saying is true. When I was younger in an old dance studio, one other student called me "fat", as soon as I got into the car to go home after class, I immediately broke down in tears, that broke me apart... it doesn't matter what other people think of you, as Katie said "it's just one opinion". Thank you so much Katie for this video, you a truly a beautiful person inside and out.
@salpsalp
3 жыл бұрын
Finally!!! Such an important crucial video!!!!!!! THANK YOUUU! I'm a man, I was a dance student and I also experienced first handedly (and was a witness to) horrible body shaming, either about body weight or your physique. It's so crazy, I agreed with every single word you said...
@arrydoll2021
3 жыл бұрын
Kathryn, thank you so much for this video. The segment at 14:18 especially resonates with me. Sure, all of the things you like or do may seem superficial, but those things are the very essence of who we are and how we interact with the world. Those things are incredibly important to me, and I’m sure they are to you too. I’ve always been a bit of an oddball- I love lace and frills and dolls and sewing and ballet and classical music and I just surround myself entirely with those things. Whenever I begin to compare myself to others, I always step back and remind myself-“There is no one in this world better at being you.” It has helped me so much through bouts of insecurity, whether it be for my looks or my skills. We should all look inside of ourselves and start embracing who we truly are and what we love. 🤍
@rkrumel
3 жыл бұрын
Preach! I wish I heard this 20 years ago but we didn't have dancers opening up about issues in the ballet world and encouraging others. Listen up, dancers! "You're a human being not a human dancing!"
@kylieghaosamwonyi2029
3 жыл бұрын
I would say you should react to Tiny Pretty Things but this is a family friendly channel😌
@lexie_ballerina4155
3 жыл бұрын
Hi Katie! You don’t even know how much you changed my perspective (In a good way!!!) on self esteem because I realized how much I needed it! Thank you for this video!!!! I cannot thank you enough for chatting about this because it helped me!!!!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🩰❤️❤️🩰🩰❤️🩰
@matthewrees5362
3 жыл бұрын
you’re incredible. as a male student right now, this helps a lot. i just want YOU to know how much this video will do for dancers. i’m gonna go about my day thinking about these principles a lot more. thank you so much kathryn❤️❤️
@ironears
3 жыл бұрын
I love this video so much ❤ I too suffer from hypothyroidism and I gained a lot of weight. But even before that, due to an unfortunate CPTSD I always wanted to be a ballerina and was just too ashamed of my body. It is such a trap most of us experience - deciding our self worth by what we see in the mirror but in my case at 36, it's too late to become a ballerina. I hope that the younger viewers here will learn this lesson it took so many years of needless shame to realize. As for the more mature of us, well, we might have started too late to fulfill that childhood dream but it is not too late to start being more forgiving and kind to ourselves. Everyday you get to practice IT'S A VICTORY, no matter if you can only do the first 3 minutes or the entire 45 minutes out of that entire tutorial, it's a win! ❤
@olivia-fy2vf
3 жыл бұрын
In Jordan Peterson's words: "compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who someone else is today"
@Hellbender8574
3 жыл бұрын
This message is so important. I just listened to your video twice.
@sassialane
3 жыл бұрын
Omg she just pulled out her weave I love it 💀❤️ 18:22
@rebekahnewman3876
3 жыл бұрын
This talk helped me with how I approach my body even though I am but an adult hobby dancer. Thank you SO MUCH Kathryn.
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