What It Means to be Bulletproof

The word "bulletproof" is defined as follows:

At the risk of parsing words here, I'd like to explore these definitions a bit further in an effort to give you a better idea of what it means to be a Bulletproof Ballerina. Since slight changes in definition can lead to different impressions of the word "bulletproof," I want to clarify the true power behind the name. Ultimately, the end game of the Bulletproof Ballerina system goes a lot deeper than you may think.

If you have read my previous blog or Instagram posts, you already know that this definition is not what the Bulletproof Ballerina brand aspires to. We are not trying to make you "perfect" here. In fact, perfection is the enemy of creativity and growth. Being Bulletproof doesn't mean you will get rid of all your flaws. It doesn't mean you will have the ideal ballet body. It doesn't mean you will never again have anything to work on in your ballet game. It doesn't mean you won't make mistakes or struggle to figure things out. And, it definitely doesn't entitle you to arrogance, thinking you are beyond corrections and improvements. No, Bulletproof does NOT mean that you will be the best dancer, an image of perfection who walks around thinking she's better than everyone else.

On the surface, with the personal training and workout products offered, you might think that Bulletproof Ballerina is all about promoting an indestructible ballerina body. An invincible physical body that stands up to wear and tear and outlasts the norm; that works optimally and performs at its highest level; that is impervious to injuries; that is an efficient machine which carries you through your life and allows you the freedom to create your art. While these physical enhancements are absolutely an essential part of the Bulletproof Ballerina name and training, they are really just half of the puzzle. They are the physical tools designed to lead you to the main objective.

Now we are getting to the good stuff. Beyond the physical aspect of creating a dancer who is virtually invincible in her body, the other half (and deeper purpose) of Bulletproof Ballerina training revolves around creating a dancer who is indestructible in her mind. This is the dancer who can't be harmed mentally or emotionally when the inevitable onslaught of "bullets" (criticisms, judgement, expectations - whether they come from strangers or the mental demons in your head) come flying at her. She has the power to dissipate the impact and save herself from being scarred, mutilated, and crushed...because she has a strength in her self that is unshakable.

Being Bulletproof doesn't imply that you can't be hurt or feel pain...but that you don't let that hurt or pain destroy you. No matter what happens on the outside, you are able to maintain your sense of self, your unique value. You can be shaped and learn from these outside influences, but they are not the determining factors of your life. They do not control you. They do not provide your sense of self-worth. And, they can not change you unless you let them. Through Bulletproof Ballerina training, you realize that you are the only one in the driver's seat. You are the one in control of your life. You are the one with the power.

So, when you encounter your mental demons - the voices of judgement, the critics tearing you down, the external pressure to be a certain way, look a certain way, dance a certain way - instead of being swayed, ripped apart, broken down, and blown off course like a helpless leaf in the wind, you stand your ground. You dig deep. You find the power in your body and in your SELF that only you possess.

It's not about coming to the table (or the stage, in this matter) with a body that is perfect, flawless, or incapable of making a mistake. It's about showing up day after day grounded in your own unique body and spirit. It's about finding your power and taking control of your life. It's about loving your self for who you are, while still accepting the responsibility to work towards being your best self (which from what I understand is a never-ending quest!). It's about feeling comfortable enough in your own skin to make yourself completely vulnerable. That is what it means to be Bulletproof. And this Bulletproof feeling, this way of being, is what allows you to open yourself unreservedly to your creativity, to your art. It's what allows you to share your SELF, without holding back, with the world. It's what ultimately leads to your authentic fulfillment in this lifetime.

Photo Credits: Steve Vaccariello