As dancers, we're not so used to "free time."  But it's that beautiful time of year, when you get to enjoy some time off!  Nationals are over and there’s a window of time before the next season starts again. Here are some ways we recommend for you to enjoy your break this summer: 

Take a Master Class

Taking a Master class may expose you to either a new style, a new teacher, or both! It will keep you dancing without the commitment of a seminar, convention or camp.  Master classes are usually around two hours long and feature teachers from different parts of the country.  Scope out what’s in your area and grab your dance friends to come join with!

Get outside & exercise in nature

Hiking and swimming are incredible ways to enjoy the outdoors while breaking a sweat and staying in shape.  Stand up paddle boarding, kayaking and outdoor yoga sessions by the beach or in the park are all excellent ways to have fun, get some sun and feel good about yourself this summer.  The best activities are something you’ve never done, which stimulate your mind/body connection and create new neural pathways in your brain.  This makes you quicker, smarter and better at learning and absorbing information in school and choreography in class.  Plus you’ll feel really great soaking up some Vitamin D (just remember to pack your sunscreen and H2O.)

Catch up on your favorite dance movies

Kick back and watch some of your favorite dance movies!  A few recommendations are Fifth Position, Flashdance, and Center Stage.  Feel free to share your favorite dance movies in the comments below!

Dive into an art project

Dance is probably your first love and you devote most of your time towards it, but why not explore a different type of art in your down time this summer.  Grab your friends, some poster boards, magazines, stickers, markers, etc. and create mood or vision boards!  This is like a hand made Pinterest board.  Or pick up some acrylic paints and a canvas, put on some good tunes and paint whatever you feel!  It feels really awesome to create something without an expectation of it being amazing and just to try something new.

Relax

Sometimes, we just want to chill.  And we deserve it after all of our hard work!  So take this time to kick your feet up and just relax.  Take naps, read a good book, lay out and listen to music.  Downtime is important for us to rest and recover, so get it while you can! And remember to drink lots of water and nurse any injuries or pains you may have acquired over the season.