While discovering the many joys of being a mom, Nermeen Shafik is also showing up for ballet practice everyday with a zeal to teach dancers and inspire them to chase after their dreams. We talked to her to find out more about her studio’s academic program and how she relates to motherhood as a ballerina.
Tell us about Motion Studio and your vision when you founded it.
Our story started in 2011 when my husband and I decided to construct our own studio. We thought that the true measure of success is not only what we dream of but what we practically aspire to be. From the beginning, we wanted to focus on technique and academic learning so we decided to offer structured music and dance courses for both kids and adults. The program is made in a way to equip students for any career they want in this field. We are certified by The International Dance Council (CID) in Paris. Not only that, but our music students also have the opportunity to get an international certificate through our program from The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) in London.
How would you describe your passion for ballet?
I’d be lost if I ever had to stop dancing – both mentally or physically. My passion is driven by my own experience. I am probably more comfortable standing en pointe than standing normally. Ballet movements have really allowed me to express myself at different points in time. On the dance floor, you will regularly find yourself in a place where you can trust your ability to express deep emotion, whether it looks like fear or desire. Choosing ballet as a career hasn’t been easy but it was one of the best decisions I’ve made. It has made me the person I am today.
How do you navigate motherhood as a ballerina?
Dance has really taught me to take the good with the bad in life. You give it your all and just pick yourself up when I fall. Dance is exactly like parenting. It needs heart and soul no matter how much you know. Ballet has probably prepared me for motherhood before I even became a mom. Aside from the discipline of showing up everyday and working on becoming better, I know my body felt so much better during pregnancy and after birth because of dance. Now, my journey as a mother brings me more strength than I had and a fresh perspective on positive creativity.
How do you manage to stay in shape? What does your diet look like?
Throughout all my life stages, I did my best to keep my body fit, even during and after pregnancy. On the days when I can’t show up to practice, I try to keep moving, whether I’m doing plies or climbing the stairs. As for nutrition, you have to know that for dancers, food is fuel. The diet doesn’t have to be super strict but it has to be balanced with a large variety of healthy meals. It should be loaded with proteins and complex carbs, as well as snacks throughout the day to keep energy levels up. Ballerinas eat several times a day – no intermittent fasting! And we drink a ton of water. Most of the time, nuts have become my go-to snack and I will pair them with fresh fruits.
There are so many good ballet movies. Which is your ultimate favorite?
The documentary movie ‘A Ballerina’s Tale’ is definitely my favorite.
What does your music playlist for practice look like?
It is jam-packed with classical and well-known Eastern tunes. I also tend to align my dance to seasonal music like Christmas.
Are there any famous ballerinas you look up to?
Yes, mainly Misty Copeland and Tamara Rojo.
What would you say to someone who loves watching ballet but is afraid to start learning it?
A dream is nothing without action. Whether you fail or succeed is irrelevant; all that matters is that you did something about it. I’m a firm believer that you always have to be learning something new. Living is learning. Otherwise, you are not growing as a person. It is never too late.
