“This is a community of ladies where we believe in each other, defend each other, and think the world of each other – all the while we challenge ourselves physically and mentally with every spin and inversion moves we learn and practice. What not to love?”
Miss December 2017: Cassandra
Occupation: Business Operations Specialist
Your motto or favorite quote: This is something I try to live by every day, can’t say that I have actually been able to achieve this, yet, but life is a progress, right?
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn’t serve the world. There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we subconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we’re liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” – passage from book by author Marianne Williamson, A Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of a Course in Miracles
How long have you been pole dancing at Divine? 4 years
Did you have any previous dance or fitness training before starting pole? I’ve taken ballet and Chinese folk dancing when I was little, but haven’t taken any dance training since elementary school. I did go to the gym on and off throughout the years.
What made you decide to take pole dancing classes? A couple of friends wanted to try it with a Groupon! I just fell in love with how Divine teaches it right away!
Favorite class? (spins, inversions, or boudoir), and why? I love boudoir series! Boudoir classes has helped me so much as a dancer and as a person. It helps me connect with my body and open my heart to creativity.
What is it that you LOVE about pole dancing at Divine? First and foremost, I love the people! Every instructor and all the students that I come across are just amazing women that continue to inspire me. This community has given me so much, and has taught me so much. This is a community of ladies where we believe in each other, defend each other, and think the world of each other – all the while we challenge ourselves physically and mentally with every spin and inversion moves we learn and practice. What not to love?
Platforms or legwarmers? Legwarmers! Although I have been enjoying learning how to dance in my heels lately. They do get more comfortable the more I dance in them.
What are you currently working on technically? Butterfly is currently my nemesis. I’m also trying to work on my handstand and flexibility.
What are you working on artistically? Slowing down. I’ve always love dancing in strong beats with fast motions. I’m also super excited to learn other dance styles to incorporate into my dancing. Hip Hop and Modern Dance, here I come!
What is your favorite move? I’m really comfortable just rolling around the floor, tee…hee… but I do like the butterfly whip, pinwheel and flying back hook, both on static and spin pole.
What is in your pole bag (ex: grip aid, journal, etc)? Legwarmers, knee pads, pole shorts, leggings, antiperspirant/deodorant, Heel to Toe, Yes to Cucumbers Cooling Hydrating Mist (haven’t tried it, yet), hairbrush, hair ties, and trail mix bars.
Do you have a favorite song to pole dance to? Meant by Elizaveta. It’s a song that my pole mama (Krissy) picked when I was in 101. I fell in love with it right away, and every time I dance to this, it reminds me of my beginning and how far I’ve come.
We LOVE music at Divine. What 3 songs would be featured on the soundtrack to YOUR life, and why?
1. Landslide by Dixie Chicks – describes some very important relationships challenges in my life
2. Beautiful by India Arie – very relevant to how I feel often, striving to reach that perfect place but its often a challenge to get there
3. Masterpiece by Jessie J – describes that fiery side of me. And the lyrics says it all…”I’m perfectly incomplete, I’m still working on my masterpiece”
Guilty pleasure: Binge watching TV series (mostly sci-fi or superhero), munching on BBQ or salt & vinegar chips with sour cream, while fresh baked brownies are baking in the oven, and playing Pokémon Go (at least until the Harry Potter mobile game comes out)
Final Question:
Any inspirational advice you would like to share with new polers? Be patient with yourself and persistence, persistence, persistence! My pole mama told me early on that everybody’s journey is different, so embrace what your body is going through and enjoy the journey.
