We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Destiny Gray. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Destiny below.
Destiny, we are so appreciative of you taking the time to open up about the extremely important, albeit personal, topic of mental health. Can you talk to us about your journey and how you were able to overcome the challenges related to mental issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
Living with CPTSD, anxiety, depression, and likely ADHD and OCD means that my mind can feel like a constant battleground. Navigating triggers while trying to maintain a “normal” life is far from easy. Over time, I’ve realized that normalcy isn’t a single, picture-perfect standard. It looks different for everyone.
One of the most transformative discoveries I’ve made is the power of having an outlet. Something that helps release emotions, reconnects the body and mind, and encourages those “happy chemicals” my system struggles to produce on its own. For me, that outlet has always been dance.
Dance has held a special place in my heart since I was a teenager. It offered me a healthy path at a time when I desperately needed one, and it gave me an escape when life felt chaotic and overwhelming. As an adult, dance continues to support me, but in new and meaningful ways. It keeps my mind and body aligned, and it allows me to give back to others.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
As a dance instructor, I like to believe the classes I teach help brighten someone’s day. When I step into a studio, my goal is simple: to inspire confidence, hope, or joy. I aim to give people a brief escape from the stress and struggles of everyday life, even if it’s just for an hour.
That’s exactly why I love DivaDance. This company embraces two powerful values: inspiring confidence and building community. DivaDance has given me the opportunity to share the impact of dance with people who are searching for the same connection, healing, and joy that I once sought out. In turn, this helps foster a community of people who are kind, understanding, and genuinely supportive. The DivaDance community in Arizona has helped shape me into a better instructor. One who leads with empathy and compassion, all while dancing, laughing, and having fun.
DivaDance is a nationwide, franchise-based company that offers adult choreography classes for all levels. Whether you’ve been dancing for years or are stepping into your first class, everyone is welcome and experience isn’t required. We’ve created a judgment-free environment where you can connect with others, express yourself, and just dance.
Whether you’re looking for a fun fitness alternative, an emotional outlet to support your mental health, or a community of kind, supportive individuals—you belong here! I encourage you to find a DivaDance class near you and give it a try. You might be surprised by just how empowering one class can be.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
First would have to be self-kindness. As creatives, we can often be our own worst critics. While growth and improving our skill set are important, it’s equally essential to be kind to ourselves. Remember your true goals, and try not to compare your journey to anyone else’s.
Second, is openness to feedback. If you admire another dancer or enjoy their choreography, tell them, but don’t ever see yourself as “less than.” Don’t be afraid to ask for advice, help, or feedback when you need it. Chances are, they’ve been in your shoes before. Just remember not to take constructive feedback personally.
Most importantly, is supportiveness. Be the kind of support you wish you had. Kindness is contagious, and when you choose to uplift others, they’ll often reflect that same support back to you.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed, I try to return to my “why.” I remind myself of my goals: Why did I get into dance? How has it shaped me? How can I use it to uplift others? Reflecting on these questions helps ground me when my mental health feels heavy or my mind starts to spiral.
One of my go-to strategies is to put on the song I plan to choreograph to and I just dance! Not to create choreography, but to move freely. I focus on letting go, releasing tension, and reconnecting with my body. Usually by the end of the song, I feel a small weight lift off my shoulders.
Then I play the song again. This time really listening to the rhythm, the lyrics, and the emotion behind it. Usually by the third run-through, something shifts. I find the feeling I want to express, and the choreography starts to flow naturally. It’s a reset, a creative release, and a reminder of why dance is so healing for me.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/destinyvgray/
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@destinyvgray
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