154: The Joy of Movement (Even If You're Not Into Fitness) with Beyonce's dancer, Deja Riley
Summary
Host Shannon Laco welcomes former pro dancer and fitness expert Deja Riley to discuss finding joy in movement. Riley shares her transition from the high-pressure dance industry to holistic wellness, emphasizing accessible, sustainable exercise over aesthetic goals. She encourages listeners to redefine fitness through modifications and community, using movement as a tool for emotional release and mental well-being.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Zenni, K-12, and Google Health
Intro: Paring Down podcast and guest Deja Riley
Deja's background: High school friends and dance career
Transition from performing to fitness and boxing
Finding joy in movement and postpartum recovery
Starting at home and redefining movement
Movement as emotional release and Lululemon days
Separating functional workouts from joyful movement
Modifications, self-compassion, and community
Physical signals of tension and the need to move
Step aerobics, social media, and future plans
Outro and sponsors: Quince, Boll & Branch, Zazzle
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