Channeling our inner 'Yonce at the studio, precursor to the "Fireman Spin"

I recently read a TIME article by Precious Lee, a plus-size model, where she speaks on finding self-confidence. 

"If you’re feeling bad about yourself, you have to take the moment you’re in and turn it around by doing something that makes you feel beautiful. I work out regularly and eat a balanced diet not because I want to look a certain way but because I know it will make me feel beautiful. And it doesn’t have to be at all related to the physical. If someone posts a hurtful comment about me, I’ll post a positive meme to take that negative energy and turn it around. Doing something that makes you feel great—whether it’s volunteering or taking a dance class —is a great way to boost your confidence." 

Reading her words reminded me of a recent class I took with my line sisters during our Deltaversary trip to Vegas. One our last day together we decided to do something spontaneous and a little unorthodox...pole dancing! 



When my line sister originally suggested we take the class I wasn't sure if I wanted to do it. I had never pole danced before and the likelihood of me falling off the pole was pretty high (don't plan on making it rain anytime soon). I was also a little wary because pole dancing has a bit of a stigma in some circles. However, by the end of the class we had fun, worked out and felt great! 

Not only is it fun and creative, but pole dancing is also highly effective workout, tightening your core and building upper body strength. Now that I'm back in Chicago, I've signed up for additional classes at Flirty Girl Fitness along with piloxing, yoga and other dance classes. Getting in touch with your feminine and sultry side can give you the body confidence to know that you are fabulous at any size!

According to Pew Research Center, 74% of online adults and 89% of millennials, aged 18-39, use social networking sites. Now more than ever, friends, families and employers expect you to be fully engaged in social media. Our society's emphasis on social has been a catalyst for positive change in many ways. But what happens when you're overloaded with the snaps, tweets and Tumblr posts?

I found myself asking that question earlier this week. Having active social media presence and being up-to-date on the newest app is essential in today's world. This is especially true if you're if you work in the media realm. But too much of anything can be bad for you! I found myself feeling drained and distracted from all the messaging, and yet could not stop checking my pages.

via GIPHY
(This me, btw)

Anxious to to get a better handle on my social media woes, I sought some advice and did some research. If you find yourself feeling over statured with social, here are four ways to effectively use social without it using you: