Misty Copeland, a renowned ballet dancer and advocate for arts education, recently shared the items she cannot live without. In partnership with LeapFrog, Copeland launched the LeapMove initiative, emphasizing the importance of creativity in learning. Her list reflects not only her personal preferences but also insights gained from her extensive experience in the dance world.
Everyday Essentials for a Ballerina
Among her favorites, Copeland mentioned dental floss as a critical tool for her ballet routine. With over twenty years of experience, she learned practical tips from veteran ballerinas. Many professional ballet companies charge high prices for special threads used to sew pointe shoes, but Copeland discovered that strong dental floss serves the purpose effectively. “That’s a ballerina’s worst nightmare, the ribbon falling off in the middle of a performance,” she remarked, highlighting the significance of having reliable materials.
Another essential, for Copeland, is a unique steel compress introduced by her husband. Initially designed for boxers, this tool quickly became her go-to for reducing puffiness. “Instead of doing the whole setup with ice and water, this is really quick if you just want to get the under-eyes,” she explained. This practical approach to beauty reflects her busy lifestyle as both a performer and a mother.
Comfort Foods and Family Traditions
An unexpected item on Copeland’s list is David sunflower seeds. These seeds have been a source of comfort and nostalgia for her since childhood. “I can’t believe I don’t have an endorsement deal yet because I’ve been eating David sunflower seeds since I was about 7,” she stated. The ritual of enjoying these seeds with her father has continued into her adult life, serving as a comforting snack during stressful times. “It’s like a therapy session,” she added, revealing the emotional connection behind the habit.
Cooking plays a significant role in Copeland’s family life as well. She grew up with rice as a staple in her meals, a tradition influenced by her diverse cultural background. When their son’s caregiver left, her husband sought to replace her expertise in cooking rice, leading him to purchase a rice cooker. “Jackson even knows the cute little ring that happens when the rice is done,” she said, emphasizing the joy such simple appliances bring to family meals.
Beauty and Practical Solutions
Despite her profession requiring makeup, Copeland is not particularly fond of it. She struggles with makeup staying intact, especially around her eyes. However, a game-changing setting spray introduced by a makeup artist transformed her routine. “The coverage felt very different,” she noted, appreciating how the aerosol spray keeps her makeup fresh throughout performances.
Instant noodles also feature in her list of essentials, serving as a nostalgic comfort food from her childhood. While she acknowledges the high sodium content, these noodles remind her of simpler times and provide a quick meal option during busy periods. “I keep it in a special place in a closet, kind of hidden away,” she admitted.
As Copeland reflects on her journey, she emphasizes the importance of movement and creativity in education. Her collaboration with LeapFrog aligns with her commitment to fostering artistic expression among children. “The kids weren’t at all thinking about the fact that they were doing math problems and spelling,” she remarked, highlighting the benefits of engaging learning experiences that incorporate movement.
Misty Copeland’s insights reveal the balance of professionalism, personal care, and family life that shapes her identity as a performer and a mother. Her essential items not only support her career but also connect her to cherished memories and values, underscoring the profound impact of these everyday choices.
