Gallim Dance Blog

Health and Wellness

By Caroline Fermin 

I consider myself to be a pretty conscientious person when it comes to my health.  Combined with a generally robust immune system and a sturdy skeleto muscular structure, I’ve steered clear of most major health issues.  However, what happens when something is wrong and only other artists know what you’re talking about?  It seems that when I go to a western doctor with symptoms that are affecting my onstage performance or a monthly discomfort, the answer usually comes in a broad and blunt stroke - “stop performing” or “take the pill” for example.  Keep in mind that this is an individual experience and cannot be used as a general comment on ALL western medicine.  However, whenever I meet with a trusted healer I leave with a new understanding of my mind-body and a sense of where to continue the exploration.  Two people that have truly guided me in healing and health are choreographer and healer Howard Katz (based in Germany but visits NYC often) and acupuncturist Mona Chopra (peopletreewellness.com).  Check them out!  All of the Gallim dancers have their own favorite acupuncturist or gyrotonics instructor (hey Francesca Romo!!!), so I wanted to share some of my favorites as well.  Enjoy!