57. Alleviating Anxiety with Jo-Anne La Flèche

This conversation with Jo-Anne La Flèche explores the distinction between stress and anxiety, particularly in high-performing environments like dance. Recognizing that anxiety is more prevalent among individuals with hypermobility, La Flèche discusses both internal and external contributors to anxiety and provides strategies for managing it. She highlights the importance of understanding anxiety mechanisms and suggests practices like mindful breathing, positive self-talk, and visualization to reduce anxiety. The discussion also covers recognizing when professional help is needed, and the collaboration between mental health professionals and physicians. La Flèche emphasizes the need for balance in dancers’ lives, encouraging identity formation outside of dance to prevent anxiety from becoming overwhelming.