It’s that time of year when we pass the turkey down the table and remember all the reasons we give thanks.  As a dancer, it’s especially important to take a sec to practice gratitude. In this incredibly competitive industry that many of us choose for a career, we face long hours in the studio, bouts of rejection, and in some cases, injury. This Thanksgiving season, we encourage you to take a step back and make a list of all the reasons you are thankful to be twirlin’. 

Here are our top 10 reasons every dancer should be thankful!

1.) We have strong bodies. 

Dancers’ bodies overcome everything from injury to the taxing nature of long rehearsals and performances. At the end of the day, our bodies our capable of creating beautiful art and that’s a wonderful thing.

2.) We Can do what we love. Anytime, anywhere.

Whether you’re in dance class or jamming with your friends and a blue tooth speaker, we can always dance it out no matter the occasion. 

3.) Foam rollers exist.

There’s nothing more rewarding than a good foam roll after a day of competing. Myofascial release keeps your body flexible and free from injury. It’s a win-win.

4.) We’re constantly surrounded by the people we love.

Dance friends are the best friends.  Who else would you snap a #TripTopTuesday pic with?  

5.) SYTYCD was lit this year.

We mean, did you see Al Blackstone’s choreography? 

6.) There are new Broadway shows coming soon!

It’s time to get excited.  From Mean Girls to Frozen hitting the broadway stages in 2018, there’s no better time to see a show and get inspired. 

7.) Competition + convention season is starting to pick up.

Amidst all the training and long rehearsals, it’s time to show those judges what you’ve got.  Nothing beats the feeling of a live performance.  Plus, you can stop by our Jo + Jax pop-up shop, coming to a convention near you! 

8.) Food. All the food.

Dancing up a storm can really make you build up an appetite. Keeping your body nourished can be a treat -- like these snacks that can curb your hunger after class. 

9.) We have the most valuable teachers + mentors.

It’s important to be thankful for your biggest support system -- the people who taught you how to be a technician and an artist. These are the people who believe in you every step of the way.  Where would you be without them?

10.) Holiday sales? #Thankful.

We’re showing our gratitude for our JJfam.  Check back on joandjax.com for some super sweet deals this holiday season for all the dancers in your life.