A list of what's been inspiring me during quarantine.

During this time it has been easy to feel 'left out'. Sometimes I become anxious when I overly look at everything and everyone showing and sharing their "best" on social media. But rather than focusing on what we can't do it's important to focus on what we, ourselves, have to offer. If you still haven't worked that out yet, it doesn't matter. Take a look around you and absorb everything from any angle, and indulge in what makes you happy.

It's been often overwhelming the amount of access we've had to free material and people openly sharing their creations. It certainly has given us all the freedom and time to delve into the more creative sides of us and given us the ability to focus on our passions or hobbies. Consequently enabling us to raise the level of our social media. 

So, as not to bombard you with information I have compiled a quick list and breakdown of some of my personal favourites that have inspired me most during this time... make sure to check them out. 

I'll start with my creative types: 

1. Rami Jewellery - You can find the most colourful, handmade creations here. The designers refined sense of style and taste is exquisite and I love keeping up-to-date on her creations. You can instantly tell that each of her pieces has been designed from the heart with such attention to detail. 
2. Prosjekt Sy - Another talented lady who makes her own pieces. But this time; garments. She has a project in full swing with a plan to make all of her own clothes for a whole year. This seems extremely relevant as we are finally starting to wake-up to the devastating effects of mass production. It's so fulfilling to see this lady show off her pieces with such pride and style. 
3. Thrifterbell  - Following the clothes production awareness, I have been watching this blog grow for a while. She's THE Vintage Style Queen. I particularly enjoy the thought that goes into each of her posts, what she has to say and ultimate femininity that shines from each of her pictures.
4. Let's move to illustrators. I have always been able to admire people who have a talent to create their own drawing style. Here I present you with two that are entirely different but somehow both been able to grasp the knack of planting a big smile on my face. Kiko takes inspiration from friends and cute vibes around her to draw cartoon images with one easily digestible message. Salty Sketches draws funny puns in disguise of child-like drawings reminding us all that we have a child inside that needs to come out sometimes. 

Health and Well-being. 

1. Anette Antal streams live sun salutations every morning. Be guided by her soothing, well instructed yoga flow which is long and deep and requires a certain focus, but damn you'll feel good after and more than ready to conquer your day. 
2. Mangiari - Inspired by the movie Julie and Julia, has created a food challenge. Everyday she makes a recipe from the minimalist baker book "101 recipes". Currently embarking on a nutrition course, combined with her passion for cooking, she is definitely one to watch in terms of making the right decisions towards the best ballerina diet. 

Ballet Stuff.

I wanted to make the head photo of this post a picture of me outside of my house, because it amazes me how I've managed to discover and feel connected with all of these wonderful things from the comfort of my own home. The photo was taken by Silas Stubbs yesterday, who also runs the instagram account of Vanemuine Ballet. During quarantine he has created fun short stop-motion films with his daughters toys which are worth a peak for some light hearted entertainment. He does a fantastic job at giving a true insight into all of our shows and capturing our dancers. I am sure all the dancers would agree with me that we are really thankful he is willing to give us his time to play around with his camera and capture our best sides and promote our company. 

Last but not least, for all my fellow dancers, I want to tell you about Arts Resolve. This is a platform to stop mental stigma in dance by sharing stories from current and former professional dancers. I can't wait to share my story via this platform and if you think you may have a story to get off your chest  please contact Amy at Arts Resolve and you can be assured that she will be hugely supportive and grateful.