You can’t lead calm, confident dancers if you’re running on empty.

This episode is a real conversation for dance teachers and studio owners who are deep in the busiest stretch of the season. Competition weekends, recital preparation, teaching schedules, family life, it all stacks up quickly. Cara pulls the focus back to the one thing most educators forget during stressful seasons: taking care of themselves first.

Instead of adding another overwhelming checklist, Cara shares practical mindset shifts and habits that help teachers regulate stress, protect their energy, and model healthy leadership for their dancers. Because students don’t just hear what we say, they watch how we live it.

When teachers are nourished, grounded, and intentional, the entire studio environment shifts.

Cara talked about:

• Why this time of year is often the most stressful season for dance teachers
• How dancers mirror the energy, habits, and mindset of their teachers
• The difference between knowing what helps and actually applying it
• Why stress can show up as real physical symptoms in the body
• Reframing healthy habits as rewards instead of obligations
• How leadership starts with how you care for yourself

Practical Ways to Lead Well Through Stress

Move your body in ways you actually enjoy
Teaching all day is giving energy, not receiving it. Find movement that restores you.

Fuel your body with foods that support your energy
Replace stress-driven habits with options you genuinely enjoy and that nourish you.

Hydrate consistently
Fatigue, cravings, and brain fog are often signs of dehydration.

Protect your sleep and nervous system
Reduce late-night scrolling and allow your mind real rest.

Create a grounded start to your day
Even 15 minutes of quiet, prayer, journaling, or reflection resets your mindset.

Surround yourself with the right people
Your mindset and leadership are shaped by the environments you stay in.

Take care of yourself the same way you care for your dancers. The more supported you are, the stronger your studio becomes.

You’ve got this!!

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