I was not originally drawn to this book, as self-help books are not particularly “my thing”. However, as soon as I saw who the author was and read the blurb on the back, I could not put it down. Misty Copeland is the first African American Principal Dancer for the American Ballet Theater. She has received countless attacks over her race, body, and the way she presents herself with pride. This book completely changed the way I thought of her and myself. As a dancer, I was immediately hesitant that this book would be focused on making yourself “frail and fragile,” in the words of Copeland. On the contrary, she stresses that a “Ballerina Body” is your healthiest, most fulfilled body. If your goal is to run a 5k or even just protect your joints as you age, this book is for you. From the title, I inferred it would be a “how-to” guide on looking a certain way, but it was much more.

Copeland starts her guide by recalling her own experience of being told she was too “muscular” and “big” for ballet, which is something that hit my heart as a reader, especially after just reading the introduction of all of her achievements and successes. Her writing style and truthful narrative make this guide feel so personal, and you feel like you are there with her, chatting over a cup of coffee. Even if you are not a dancer, I would recommend this book to anyone. In fact, once I finished reading this, I recommended my mom read the introduction and first section on her mindfulness.

The second and third section of the book focus on what she learned and put into practice around dieting and exercise. The exercise section included workouts that can be done sitting down at a desk, at a gym or even waiting in line to check out at the grocery store. She shares photos explaining how to do certain moves and what to try to engage or relax. The recipe section was filled with several recipes ranging from granola to protein muffins to a full main course dinner. My favorite part was that she included a shopping list of what groceries you would need for each dish – a small thing that makes your life easier when reading cook books.

If I could, I would require any young female athlete to read at least the first chapter. The dance stretches and workouts may not work for you, but the honest and thought out process of how Copeland grew to love her body is so important to read. After reading this book once, I know that I will come back to it, not only for the recipes but for the mental reminders to appreciate everything your body does for you. It can be hard to wake up each day and want to try to live a healthier lifestyle, but Copeland stresses the following, “Each morning, as the sun filters through your bedroom window and you wipe the sleep from your eyes, you can make a fresh start, you can rededicate yourself to an ongoing journey to take control of your body, your health, and your mental well-being.”