Embracing Self-Love: Insights from Michal Bardavid, Author & Dance Movement Therapist
Early love for dance, starting with ballet at age fiveDiscovered dance movement therapy as a scientific discipline
Podcast
Overview
In this insightful episode of “The Brand Called You,” host Ashutosh Garg sits down with Michal Bardavid, a dance and movement therapist, journalist, and author of Becoming a Peacock: Strut Your Way Into Self-Love. Recorded from Istanbul, Turkey, this candid conversation dives into self-worth, resilience, overcoming external validation, and celebrating authenticity.
00:00:44- What drew Michal Bardavid to both journalism and dance movement therapy?
Early love for dance, starting with ballet at age fiveDiscovered dance movement therapy as a scientific disciplineFelt a strong connection to people through movementEntry into journalism after realizing her comfort with interviews and media00:02:28- How did reporting on conflict affect her understanding of human emotion and resilience?
Witnessed raw human emotion in conflict zonesLearned about the depth of human resilienceSaw how people adapt and connect even in adversity00:03:12- How does Michal balance creative therapy with high-pressure journalism?
Describes dance movement therapy as “feminine, spiritual, reflective”Journalism is “analytical, grounded in reality”Finds personal balance by embracing both worlds, reflecting and staying grounded00:04:07- What inspired Michal to write Becoming a Peacock?
Teaching dance movement therapy for 15 years highlighted a universal lack of self-love educationQuotes graffiti: “So many years of education and nobody taught us how to love ourselves.”Book aims to share self-love lessons more widely00:05:19- Why is the peacock a central metaphor in the book?
The peacock’s beauty is revealed when it chooses to display its feathersSymbolizes knowing your worth yet remaining humbleEncourages self-appreciation while supporting others to shine00:06:58- How does self-actualization relate to self-worth?
Draws from Maslow: Self-esteem is foundational to reaching self-actualizationWithout self-love, people won’t chase their dreams or embrace their authentic selves00:08:03- Why do people rely on external validation for self-worth?
Upbringing and societal conditioning teach worthiness is conditionalTrue love and worth are unconditional, rooted in authenticity00:09:07- How has Michal’s approach to rejection changed over time?
Previously internalized rejection as personal failureNow sees rejection as a mismatch, rather than a reflection of her own worthMaintains emotional center and self-acceptance despite setbacks00:10:21- What lessons does she draw from professional failures?
Shares story of opening (and failing at) a dance therapy studioLearned empowerment comes from trying and learningFailure does not equate to lack of worth or strength00:11:25- Why is authenticity difficult for many people?
Fear of not being accepted for one’s true selfSuppressing authenticity leads to unhappinessAuthentic connections are deeper and more fulfillingLearn more about Michal Bardavid: LinkedIn
“A peacock knows its worth.” Too often, we attach our value to validation from parents, peers, or society. Michal reminds us that you deserve love simply for being you. Share your thoughts in the comments and spread these insights with friends!
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Early love for dance, starting with ballet at age fiveDiscovered dance movement therapy as a scientific disciplineFelt a strong connection to people through movementEntry into journalism after realizing her comfort with interviews and media
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