Hi Beauties,
Cozy up with a cup of coffee and join Mary Helen for a behind the scenes interview to get to know the charismatic and passionate founder of Ballet Beautiful. Spring is Mary Helen's favorite season as it always brings with it refreshing energy and inspiration for trying new things - including new workouts.
1. When and how did you start dancing?
My first dance class was when I was 3 years old growing up in Charlotte, North Carolina but I’ve been dancing for as long as I can remember. It was as natural as walking for me. As a little girl I danced everywhere I went.
2. What made you fall in love with dance?
The magical world of classical ballet, the costumes, the graceful movements are all what made me love dancing but even more so is the way dancing has always made me feel.
3. What is your greatest strength as a dancer?
Finding the joy of dance and getting lost in the movements! I love finding ways to share my passion for ballet with others, and mixing the artistry and athleticism of ballet with fitness, wellness, & health.
4. What is a core dancing memory for you?
Performing in Serenade at The Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg. The Mariinsky Theatre is just magnificent and it was such a powerful moment onstage. It is such an honour to step on someone’s stage, in a far away place that was built in a whole other time and bring yourself to that.
5. What is your favorite ballet?
Serenade is probably my favorite - I adore George Balancehine’s ballets, and Serenade was his first work choreographed in America. Many of his ballets, such as Coppelia and Jewels ballets, have inspired some of our streaming workouts and livestreams.
6. What is the best motivation for you to workout when you're having an "off" day?
I think about how I'm going to feel when I finish the workout. I focus on the energy I know exercise will give me. I think of exercise as a treat I'm giving to myself, rather than a punishment or chore. When I frame it this way in my mind, and it becomes a form of self-care, it's easy to be motivated to work out; I think "this will make me feel better" instead of "this is something I need to do!"
7. What is your favorite BB Kitchen Recipe?
For Spring, I'm loving an entree salad with grilled salmon and asparagus! So fresh and light! I also love our healthy snacks like peanut butter with fruit, organic popcorn, or raw nuts like almonds. Having nutritious snacks throughout the day is key to keeping up with my workouts, especially on busy days!
8. What is your MUST HAVE or Favorite BB Activewear or Accessory?
Right now, I’m wearing any Cami Leotard with our Jersey Wrap Tops for the warm, breezy weather. Great for Spring layering. Great stretch and flexibility, especially while breastfeeding baby Emanuel. I also love our Long Jersey Wrap Skirt which pairs perfectly with our leotards and jersey wrap tops, or with a bathing suit on the beach!
9. What is your favorite BB Challenge?
Stress Buster. I created this challenge in 2020, when all of our lives had been turned upside down and I needed a way to burn off stress and get lost in movement. Working out and dancing always helps me during challenging times and I wanted to share that with our community!
10. What are you most excited for this Spring?
Cherry Blossoms and local strawberries!
Thanks so much for joining us backstage. We can't wait to see you at our next workout!
Sincerely,
The Ballet Beautiful Team
