Former professional ballerina Lauren Ostrander McArdle, MS (Sports Psychology), joins the Ballet Science Podcast to unpack the mental side of dance... how to manage perfectionism, channel nerves, and build a reliable pre-performance routine.

We delve into injury psychology, explore identity beyond ballet, and discuss practical sport psychology tools that dancers can utilize in class, auditions, and on stage.

What you’ll learn:

🧠 How Mindset Impacts Technique, Artistry, And Consistency
😮‍💨 Tools For Performance Anxiety (Breathing, Self-Talk, Arousal Regulation)
💪 Building Confidence That Isn’t Dependent On Casting Or External Validation
🩹 Injury Psychology In Three Phases: Acute, Rehab, And Return-To-Dance
📋 Ritual vs. Routine: Evidence-Based Steps To Perform At Your Best
💎 Navigating Career Transitions And Dancer Identity After Retirement
🎓 How To Find Qualified Mental Performance Help (What CMPC Means)

Follow Lauren Ostrander McArdle:

Instagram: @behindthecurtain.spp⁠

Watch Video on YouTube

Logo Photo: Richard Calmes