Name (or nickname) and Pronouns
Tawney (she/her)
When did you start your pole journey with Uplift?
August 2021
Why did you decide to try pole dancing at Uplift?
I wanted to push myself outside of my comfort zone and feel more connected to my body and sensuality.
What do you love most about Uplift?
I love the beautiful community of people. Everyone is supportive and kind, which makes me feel safe. It’s a gift to be surrounded by such powerful and magical people.
What do you love about pole dancing?
I love how no matter how difficult my day has been, I can come into my class and free my mind, body, and spirit. Uplift has had a hugely positive impact on my mental health.
Did you have a dance or fitness background before starting your pole journey with Uplift?
I had zero dance background and had definitely gotten out of shape.
What are your top 3 favorite songs to pole dance to?
‘Why Don’t You Do Right’ by Amy Irving ‘Do It For Me’ by Rosenfeld ‘Reflecting Light’ Sam Phillips
What advice would you give to others that are thinking about trying pole dancing?
Ignore the little voice in your mind telling you that you can’t. You absolutely can. It may intimidating or uncomfortable at first, but you will become stronger and more confident if you give yourself a chance. It’s worth taking the leap and trying it out.
What are some of your pole and movement goals for the year?
I want to become stronger at connecting my movements and feeling the moment versus planning what to do next.
What motivates you to keep coming back and pole dancing at Uplift?
There is always something new to learn and a new boundary to push. I’m becoming empowered by vulnerability and I use it as fuel to not give up.
What has been the best thing you've learned since starting your pole journey?
I’ve learned I can only compare myself to me. It’s easy to get defeated when I’m not progressing how I want to be, but I try to remember where I started and to feel proud of what I have achieved.