Presenting at TDEA

This Friday, I am teaching a mental health movement workshop at the Texas Dance Educators Association convention in Houston. This is a convention I have attended for many years and have presented lecture workshops at in recent years, but this is my first year to teach a movement workshop and I can't wait! I'm so excited for this opportunity, but also nervous speaking in front of my peers per usual. As a teacher and coach, I have no problem talking in front of students all day but adults, no thanks. My voice always shakes at first and my cheeks get red and I have to wait until it starts to regulate.

I have had so many ideas of things I'd like to incorporate into this class, but the structure is starting to fall into place this week. My goal is for the participants to leave feeling refreshed and empowered. I want to offer a version of this workshop that is more tailored toward middle school and high school students, so I am hoping the teachers can experience and see the value. I want to make mental health resources more accessible and believe that fine arts, especially dance, provides an invaluable opportunity to support students. Reminding myself that being genuine and authentic is more important and impactful than being perfect.