Dance - A Ballet of Life - Dancing and Teaching In Munich

Sadly Hanging up My Dance Shoes to Embrace Motherhood

October 18, 2024October 18, 2024 lwjoefmyLeave a comment

Becoming a mother brings beautiful yet challenging experiences. For me, it came with a decision that shook my entire sense of self—hanging up my dance shoes to embrace motherhood. After years of performing and dedicating my life to being a professional ballet dancer, something I loved since childhood, stepping away didn’t just involve logistics; it felt like losing a part of my identity.

Dance Shoes to Embrace Motherhood - Harriet Mills performing Giselle — Performing as ‘Giselle’ during my 10-year long career with the Staatsballet Karlsruhe

The Decision to Step Away

For years, my husband and I lived apart, navigating the challenges of a long-distance relationship while pursuing our passionate careers. When our daughter entered the world, I knew I needed to change. It was no longer just the two of us—our family needed to come together under one roof. While the thought of continuing to dance professionally tugged at my heart, I felt a stronger pull to build a home with my husband and child.

Losing and Rediscovering My Identity

This decision wasn’t easy. Dance defined me more than just a career. From the age of 11, I trained rigorously, perfected my craft, and turned my passion into a successful career. Leaving the stage meant losing a part of me that I thought defined who I was. It represented the thing I excelled at, the constant in my life. Without it, I felt lost.

And I know many mothers can relate to this feeling. We give so much of ourselves to our families that, somewhere along the way, we can forget who we are. We lose sight of the person we were before becoming “mummy.” For me, stepping away from dance compounded that sense of losing myself in more ways than one.

Dance Shoes to Embrace Motherhood- Harriet Mills performing as Anna Karenina — Performing the mad scene from Reginaldo Oliveira’s ‘Anna Karenina‘ – Salzburg Landestheatre

Embracing the New Chapter

The combination of these two huge life changes definitely shook me but I knew time would be the best healer. And as time passed, I started to see this period of transition as an opportunity. Albeit a challenging and quite daunting one, but never the less one that I am growing with.

While I stepped away from my identity as a professional dancer, I also gained the space to rediscover who I am outside of that role. I’ve had the chance to explore new paths, to rebuild my work life in a way that still connects me to the dance world I love so much. Teaching has allowed me to stay close to my wonderful husband and daughter and connected to dance. I share my passion with others and am slowly rebuilding a new identity as both a mother and a mentor.

I’m still finding my way, but I’m learning that it’s okay to let go of one chapter to embrace another. Even though I have hung up my dance shoes for motherhood, through this journey, I’ve discovered that losing yourself doesn’t have to be permanent—it can be the beginning of finding yourself again in new and unexpected ways.

With love,

Harriet

Going on Adventures in Toddler Dance & Beyond

October 4, 2024October 18, 2024 lwjoefmy

The Start of My Toddler Teaching Journey

Teaching my first Toddler Dance Class was such a fun and rewarding experience. I wanted to make it as interactive and exciting for the little ones as possible, knowing that movement and imagination go hand in hand at that age. We started in a welcome circle to get to know each other a little. We found our name tags and clapped to the music together. To warm up, spots on the floor guided the children on where to stop and move between the space, as we worked on basic body positions. It was a great way to keep things organized while letting them explore the new space.

I plan to introduce a new theme each week, and for our first week, it was Into the Woods. The excitement on their faces when I mentioned we’d be going on an adventure in the woods was priceless. We imagined ourselves as creatures living in the forest – hopping like rabbits, prowling like bears, and fluttering like owls. The use of imagery captured their imaginations and made every move feel magical.

❝After just five minutes, she wanted to go home❞

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The Start of My Toddler Teaching Journey

❝After just five minutes, she wanted to go home❞

Continue reading →

The Start of My Toddler Teaching Journey

❝After just five minutes, she wanted to go home❞

Continue reading →

The Joy of Trying Something New in Dance

September 17, 2024September 19, 2024 lwjoefmy

As dancers, we’re constantly striving for mastery, for perfection in movement and technique. But what happens when life nudges us into something entirely new, something we may not feel ready for? That’s exactly where I find myself these days — both in the studio and beyond. And I have to say, while it’s been a little nerve-wracking, it’s also been wonderfully rewarding.

A New Step: Teaching Toddler Dance Classes

I’ve recently partnered with the incredible midwife, Lynn Darbyshire, to offer something very special: Toddler Dance Courses in Munich. Lynn, whom I met during my pregnancy, has long been dedicated to supporting expat women through pregnancy and motherhood. Now, she’s expanded her vision, bringing together an amazing team of women under her ‘Pippagina‘ umbrella creating classes and courses for women in all phases of life. From pregnancy and postpartum support to baby and toddler activities to perimenopause and menopause workshops, her team covers it all. And I’m thrilled to be a part of it by offering dance classes for toddlers, including those where parents can join in.

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The Power of Family and Personal Growth: A Year of Reflection

August 30, 2024August 31, 2024 ABL_Dance

This past week marked my birthday—a time for reflection on the past year, which has been filled with immense change, growth, and new experiences. It’s an opportunity to look back on how far we’ve come and to feel grateful for the support systems that have helped us along the way. As I look back, I’m reminded of the importance of family, friends, and positive influences in our lives, especially in the context of balancing a demanding career in ballet with the joys and challenges of motherhood.

The Support of Family and Friends

Family support can make a world of difference, particularly when balancing a professional career and personal life. I have been fortunate to have a wonderful support system, including my husband, parents, sibling and a circle of positive friends who have become like family to me. They provide the encouragement and understanding needed to navigate the many phases of life.

However, not everyone is always surrounded by family. Sometimes, we find ourselves in situations where our immediate circle may not provide the encouragement or positivity we need. I remember times during my school years or even in the company, where it wasn’t easy to find a supportive environment. It’s during these moments that we need to seek out those positive influences—whether it’s a friend, teacher, or colleague who can offer a different perspective and shine a light on the situation. These relationships can help us see challenges as opportunities for growth and development.

If you’re a young dancer or someone embarking on a new journey, remember that the people you surround yourself with matter. Find those who uplift you, inspire you, and encourage you to be the best version of yourself. It’s easy to get stuck in a bubble, bringing each other down, but finding that one person who can lift you up can make all the difference.

My supportive colleagues and team of swans at the Badisches Staaststheater Karlsruhe after our last run of Swan Lake

Reflecting on a Year of Change

As I celebrated my birthday this week, I couldn’t help but reflect on the many changes that have taken place over the past year. Life is full of phases—some are wonderful, while others are challenging. But each phase brings with it an opportunity for growth and development. I’ve learned that while we can influence these changes by being proactive and driven, sometimes, change simply happens. And it’s during these moments that we have the chance to develop and grow.

Looking back over the past year, I see how much has changed in my own life. From becoming a mother to balancing a career as a dance teacher in Munich, I’ve experienced both the highs and the lows. There have been moments of exhaustion and doubt, but also moments of joy and fulfillment. Through it all, I’ve learned to embrace each phase, knowing that it’s an opportunity to learn and grow.

Being That Person for My Daughter

Reflecting on my journey as a dancer, I’m reminded of my own mother and the role she played in my development. She was my partner, my travel buddy, my agent, and my biggest supporter. From driving me to auditions and summer schools to staying up late listening to me recount every detail of a performance, she was always there for me. Her unwavering support and encouragement were invaluable, helping me navigate the ups and downs of a career in ballet.

Now, as a mother myself, I look forward to being that person for my little girl. Whatever path she chooses, I want to be there to support her, to encourage her, and to help her navigate the many phases of life. Whether she decides to follow in my footsteps and pursue a career in dance or chooses a completely different path, I will be there to guide her, cheer her on, and help her see the beauty in every phase of her journey.

Embracing Gratitude and Looking Ahead

As I look ahead to the coming year, I’m filled with gratitude for the experiences of the past year and the lessons they have taught me. Balancing a new career with the joys of motherhood isn’t always easy, but it’s a journey filled with growth, discovery, and immense joy. I’m grateful for the support of my family and friends, for the opportunities to teach and inspire young dancers, and for the chance to continue growing both personally and professionally.

To all the young dancers reading this, know that you are not alone in your journey. We all face challenges, but it’s how we respond to them that defines us. Surround yourself with positive influences, embrace each phase of life with gratitude, and remember that every challenge is an opportunity for growth.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. Here’s to another year of growth, discovery, and the joy of dance.

With Love,

Harriet xxx

Reclaiming my Passion

August 14, 2024August 16, 2024 ABL_Dance

It’s been a long, long time since I last wrote to you, and so much has changed since then. Life has taken me on a whirlwind journey, one that has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding. As I sit here, in the serene beauty of Emilia-Romagna, Italy, staying in a magnificent hotel that once was an ancient castle, I am filled with a renewed sense of purpose and excitement about the future.

A New Chapter Begins

The past few months have been nothing short of a roller coaster. In February, I took the plunge and started my new career as a dance teacher. After years of gracing the stage as a professional ballerina, transitioning to teaching was both a natural progression and a completely new adventure. My love for dance runs deep, and I wanted to share that passion with a new generation of dancers.

Starting my dance classes has been a mix of triumphs and trials. Some classes filled up quickly, brimming with enthusiastic students eager to learn the art of ballet. Other classes have required more effort to attract attendance, but I see this as part of the journey. Every student, every class, is a step forward, and I am committed to making each lesson a memorable experience for my pupils.

The Joys of Motherhood

Adding to the excitement, my life was blessed with the arrival of my beautiful daughter. Motherhood has been the most profound and life-altering experience. It has brought immense joy, countless sleepless nights, and a deep sense of fulfillment. Balancing my new role as a mother with my passion for dance has been challenging, but every smile from my daughter makes it all worthwhile.

A Much-Needed Break

This holiday in Emilia-Romagna couldn’t have come at a better time. The past few months have been a whirlwind, and I desperately needed a break to recharge and reconnect with myself. Our hotel, nestled in an ancient castle, feels like something out of a fairy tale. The old stone walls, the breathtaking views, and the rich history of the place create an atmosphere of tranquility and reflection.

Italy, with its warm, inviting culture, has always held a special place in my heart. Here in Emilia-Romagna, the rolling hills, the vibrant vineyards, and the charming towns offer the perfect backdrop for a much-needed retreat. This region is a feast for the senses, from the delicious cuisine to the melodic Italian language that fills the air.

Finding Balance

During this holiday, I’ve had the luxury of time – something that has been scarce in recent months. Time to relax, to reflect, and to dream about the future. It’s been a precious opportunity to find balance in my life once again. As a new mother, it’s easy to lose oneself in the demands of caring for a newborn. This trip has allowed me to reconnect with my own needs and desires.

Every morning, I take a leisurely stroll through the castle grounds, breathing in the crisp, fresh air and soaking in the beauty of the Italian countryside. These moments of solitude have been incredibly restorative. They remind me of the importance of self-care and the need to nurture my own well-being in order to be the best mother, wife, and teacher I can be.

Embracing the Future

As I look ahead, I am filled with excitement and anticipation. My return to the world of dance, now as a teacher, has reignited my passion in ways I never expected. Seeing my students grow and develop their own love for ballet is incredibly fulfilling. It reminds me of why I fell in love with dance in the first place – the grace, the discipline, and the sheer joy of movement.

I am also eager to continue my journey as a mother, watching my daughter grow and discovering the world through her eyes. This new chapter of my life is a beautiful blend of my past and my present, combining my love for dance with the deep, unconditional love I have for my family.

Gratitude and Reflection

Sitting here in this ancient castle, surrounded by the timeless beauty of Emilia-Romagna, I am overwhelmed with gratitude. Gratitude for the opportunities I’ve had, for the support of my loving husband, and for the gift of being a mother. Life has been a series of unexpected twists and turns, but each moment has brought me to where I am today.

I am grateful for the challenges, for they have made me stronger. I am grateful for the successes, for they have reaffirmed my passion. And I am grateful for this holiday, which has given me the time and space to reflect on my journey and to dream about the future.

A Message to My Readers

To my loyal readers who have followed my journey, thank you for your patience and support. Your encouragement has meant the world to me. I hope that my story can inspire others who may be facing their own challenges. Life is a dance, full of unexpected steps and turns, but with perseverance and passion, we can find our rhythm and move forward with grace.

As I continue my holiday in this enchanting part of Italy, I am filled with a renewed sense of purpose. I am ready to embrace the future with open arms, to continue sharing my love for dance with my students, and to cherish every moment with my precious family. This is just the beginning of a new chapter, and I am excited to see where the dance of life takes me next.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. I look forward to sharing more stories, more insights, and more moments of joy with you in the months and years to come.

With love and gratitude,

Back Under Those Lights & In Front of the Camera

After a year in lockdown and a push to stay motivated, enjoying those shining moments in between

March 23, 2021December 30, 2023 lwjoefmy

Having just passed the year mark of the first Covid lockdown, we sadly find ourselves in not much of a different situation to where we all were this time last year. However, after months of waiting, endless shows being cancelled and not even stepping foot on our stage, a few weeks ago my company and I were finally back where we belonged. What a feeling it was to be under those bright lights once more, doing what we are meant to do after so long.

On stage in my Juliet costume after months of not performing

We were filming our beautiful ‘Romeo & Juliet‘ to be available online for the public over the next month. I was lucky enough to be performing as Juliet once more, almost exactly a year after my debut, just before we all got closed down that first lockdown. And even thought it wasn’t a normal performance, with public or even a full run through, as we had two days to film it, it felt so good to be able to put our art out there once more.

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Crossing the Border to Basics

What’s it like to be back in the studio & what I plan to do with my time back at work

May 12, 2020 lwjoefmy

Now that my time of home quarantine is pretty much over with Germany and Austria coming back to life after almost two months in shut down, I have a similar feeling to when I go back to work after our long summer holidays. Having gotten quite used to the way of life we were all forced into I am now feeling like I am once again treading on familiar ground but a little apprehensive to do so.

mvimg_20200406_204155 — My quarantine studio during the lockdown

My first journey back to Salzburg was a strange one, riding an empty train carrying a ‘border commuter’ document and wearing a mask, something I never imagined I would be explaining to people. But I got across successfully and made my way to the disinfected studios to begin a ballet class of four dancers, all practising their spacial awareness and finding their own feet after taking class in their living rooms for the past few weeks. Continue reading “Crossing the Border to Basics” →

Dancing Queen in Quarantine

With us all going through something very scary right now, I wanted to spread some positively about what us artists are doing while we can’t work

March 21, 2020 lwjoefmy1 Comment

Never would I have thought I’d be writing a post about this. With the world on lockdown due to the quickly spreading Coronavirus, it has been one of the strangest and scariest times any of us have experienced and it doesn’t seem to be changing any time soon.

❝The entertainment and theatre industry is taking a huge hit❞

It is causing us all to go through our own difficult times and creating a worrisome atmosphere of what is to come and the possible effects it will have on us all. We have all been advised to say indoors and avoid contact with others, not to mention the unfortunate people that are having to actually deal with the illness and lives being turned upside down because of it. Continue reading “Dancing Queen in Quarantine” →

Finding My Feet in Salzburg

Want to know how things are going here in Salzburg? Read about the new and wonderful time I am having with the Landestheater Salzburg

October 8, 2019 lwjoefmy2 Comments

I have been part of the Landestheater Salzburg for almost two months now and am definitely on my way to feeling settled. The new routine is becoming my norm but still fresh enough to be interesting, and the people that now fill my days are all making life enjoyable and welcoming.

mvimg_20190911_144655 — In our rehearsal studios in Salzburg

I feel cosy in my cute little apartment, filled with leftover furniture and comforting photos of friends and family. I am adapting to the very different timetable here where we work through rather than having a split working day. We begin at 10am with training followed by morning rehearsals till 14pm, a half-hour lunch break and continue with rehearsals until 5pm. When we start performing it will be a little different, but for now, I am really liking this way of working.

❝This is a big ballet to create so a lot of interesting work is going into this part of the process❞

Before I joined the company I admit I was a little worried about this change as I couldn’t imagine not having the long afternoon break I have grown comfortable too, but now I really appreciate having the evenings to relax and recover for the next day. Our bodies have so much more time to recuperate and it also gives us the feeling of a ‘normal life’; work is done at 5pm, time to enjoy dinner, meeting friends or an evening at home. Continue reading “Finding My Feet in Salzburg” →

Tanzen in Tokyo

Sharing with you my amazing time in Tokyo during summer

August 22, 2019 lwjoefmy2 Comments

If you’ve already read my previous post “Living In a World Such as this is like Dancing on a Live Volcano” you will know why I recently ended up on a quick trip to Japan to perform at a small gala very last minute. This spontaneous trip became part of my very short summer vacation and was another chance to perform some pieces I never thought I would again.

IMG_20190811_095443_952 — Post pas de deux pic, with my ‘Romeo’ Zhile Xu

I spent the week rehearsing and performing with old colleagues while managing to combine the days spending some much needed holiday time with my other half, who came along for the week.

❝It is quite amazing what you can make possible when you have no other choice❞

We arrived at our hotel after a very very long journey just in time for a quick dinner and hopefully an early night. But upon arriving I received my costumes and pre-ordered pointe shoes, which I needed to prepare for the next morning’s rehearsal. So while my husband slept soundly (possibly the only good night sleep he got the whole trip due to jetlag) I lay in bed till 12:30 sewing these emergency pointe shoes until I couldn’t keep my eyes open any longer. Continue reading “Tanzen in Tokyo” →