Alexandra Damiani, Part 1 Artistic Director, Dancer, Mother, A Journey of Balance & Strength

“The transformative aspect of motherhood has really enabled me to go to another level in my life.”   Alexandra reflects on how transitioning into a rehearsal director role gave her strength and inspiration for motherhood (4:46). She emphasizes the importance of flexibility, creativity, and self-care practices like deep breathing and meditation in order to balance motherhood and creativity (10:50), and discusses the profound impact of movement in her life and how strength training empowered her to set boundaries, advocate for herself, and encourage more women to embrace physical strength (19:30). Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson   Guest: Alexandra Damiani Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions     Follow Alexandra Damiani: Instagram: @alexandra_damiani. Website: www.damianidance.com Follow her work with Ballets Jazz Montréal Instagram: @balletsjazzmontreal Website: www.bjmdanse.ca Follow Jonathan Angelilli & Breathe Move Nourish – Program especially conceived to support women and moms over 40. Instagram: @bmn.coach - DM him BREATHE and he will send you Busy Mom's Intro to Breath Work Guide.   Follow Us  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Extended Summary  In this special episode, Cher and Shelly sit down with Alexandra to explore her incredible journey as a dancer, director, and mother. Alexandra shares her experiences growing up in France, training at the Alvin Ailey School, and performing with Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet before transitioning into the role of rehearsal director, giving her strength and inspiration for the possibility of motherhood. She opens up about the challenges of balancing a demanding career with motherhood, raising her two children, and the importance of flexibility and creativity in navigating multiple roles. The conversation delves into self-care and mindfulness, with Alexandra emphasizing deep breathing and meditation as essential tools for managing stress. She shares her philosophy on embracing imperfection and recognizing balance as an ongoing process. Alexandra and Shelly also discuss the profound impact of dance on their lives, touching on how movement provides valuable life lessons beyond the stage. Alexandra highlights her transformative experience with strength training—how it empowered her, helped her set boundaries, and why she believes more women should embrace it as a tool for self-advocacy. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on resilience, motherhood, and the evolving journey of an artist.