65. Finding Balance with Jenelle Manzi
In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, professional ballet dancer Jenelle Manzi discusses her journey with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and how she manages to maintain her career with the New York City Ballet despite her condition. She details the challenges of balancing physical exertion with necessary rest, the process of discovering her diagnosis, and how learning to manage EDS has influenced her both personally and professionally. Jenelle shares that adapting to her condition required building a support team and adjusting her lifestyle, including a focus on nutrition, injury prevention, and recovery strategies. Her experiences led her to develop the company Get Golden, aiming to provide healthful nutrition options. Throughout, she emphasizes the importance of resilience, finding identity beyond dancing, and achieving balance in her life. The episode offers insights into how individuals with EDS can manage their symptoms while pursuing demanding careers or activities.