The self-development process for this shoot next week has been huge! I've been working with a personal trainer for 3 months now, dropping the winter weight and getting leaner. That was a huge up and down process for me, sticking with it for a while, then going into denial and resuming bad habits. It took 3 months to get super committed, along with daily dance training at ODC. Prep went into high gear over the past couple weeks, with studio rentals with memorized material repeated again and again in the mirror while hooping, sample classes for students with feedback, preparing choreography and basically getting my act together. Honestly, I have a habit of saying yes to big projects even if I have absolutely no idea how I can possibly carry them off. Then usually I figure it out along the way.
"Hoopdance for Beginners" was done pretty much by the seat of my pants and "Hulaerobics" was done with major preparation and support by Universal Studios UK. This project, however, has been the first one I have self-prepared for so thoroughly. From designing the class material, choosing all the music from licensed possibilities, choosing the multiple outfits, getting bronzed at the St Regis Remede Spa, facial at Aura, teeth brightened at the dentist, hair highlight touch up, mani-pedi tomorrow, and doing laughter yoga every morning to relieve stress and affirmations galore to ensure a super positive attitude. No rehearsals on site... I simply fly in and do the shoot and then that will be it. Phew!
Honestly, I know I didn't *have* to do all these things. But something inside of me really wanted to rise up to this opportunity and put my best self out there. I had developed some poor habits -- emotional eating, lack of movement because of too much computer work, etc. This project was a great excuse to really move to the next level in putting myself together and honoring my body. I'm excited to see what unfolds, how it comes out and where this path leads me. I know it will be fabulous! Life is such a wonderful blessing~ I am so grateful.
It really has been so long since I have written personally here on this blog. Honestly, while I have been delving into this physical transformation, I have had deep personal transformation going on too. I've been recording it all on my spiritual blog at www.lightbliss.com for those who are interested. So much opening, surrender, growth and gratitude! I am so happy to be alive!!!