“It’s amazing to see a community that, despite growth and expansion, has a community that stays so true to the values of the business. Divine always feels like a safe space for all women. It’s an amazing community to be a part of.”
Miss January 2018: Etana
Occupation: Marketing Strategist
Your motto or favorite quote: “It was her habit to build laughter out of inadequate materials.” – Grapes of Wrath
How long have you been pole dancing at Divine? 4 years
Did you have any previous dance or fitness training before starting pole? None! Pole was my first experience dancing, and I can’t say I had done much for fitness before pole. Divine showed me working out could be stimulating for the mind and body.
What made you decide to take pole dancing classes? My roommate was too nervous to try it on her own, so I went with and was immediately hooked.
Favorite class? (spins, inversions, or boudoir), and why? Boudoir. I love having a place to go where I am not only allowed to feel any emotion, but am encouraged to express my emotions, no matter how I’m feeling that day.
What is it that you LOVE about pole dancing at Divine? The community! It’s amazing to see a community that, despite growth and expansion, has a community that stays so true to the values of the business. Divine always feels like a safe space for all women. It’s an amazing community to be a part of.
Platforms or legwarmers? Legwarmers
What are you currently working on technically? Challenging myself even when I feel out of touch with my body.
What are you working on artistically? Trying to find my dance when I’m feeling happy in life. Sometimes I find it’s harder to tap into positive emotions, but I’m generally feeling happy and positive these days, which has brought a new challenge to my dance.
What is your favorite move? A simple booty trace.
What is in your pole bag (ex: grip aid, journal, etc)? Legwarmers, booty shorts, a comfy sweatshirt or a leather jacket.
Do you have a favorite song to pole dance to? Skin by Kyla la Grange
We LOVE music at Divine. What 3 songs would be featured on the soundtrack to YOUR life, and why?1. Waltz #2 – Elliott Smith, this song was basically the soundtrack of my high school years. I didn’t feel like I belonged, and the beautiful melancholy of this song spoke to me.
2. Make you miss me – Sam Hunt. I recently discovered how much I loved country music, and Sam Hunt was the artist that helped me discover it. This song, and country in general, makes me feel happy, which is something I value more and more.
3. God of wine – Third Eye blind. My best friends and I used to sing every third eye blind song at the top of our lungs. All the time. We are still all close friends, and this song reminds me of them.
Guilty pleasure: Rewatching 90s teen dramas with a glass of wine.
Final Question: Any inspirational advice you would like to share with new polers? To not worry much about how long it takes you to progress. Enjoy the journey and learn to love your dance no matter what your body is doing.
