I’m a Stretching and Pole Dance Instructor and I’m Not Ashamed

I’m not ashamed to admit it – even after years of practicing and teaching pole dance and stretching I don’t always feel beautiful. I don’t always feel sexy, feminine or free in my body. Sometimes I catch myself thinking “I’m not enough… something.” And yet every day I teach women to listen to themselves and their bodies.

I grew up without a father. My mother was physically present but emotionally distant – alcohol took her away. I was raised by my grandmother and grandfather and I am endlessly grateful to them for everything they gave me. Yet my childhood lacked a sense of safety. There were no words that warmed me, no touches that soothed me. I tried to be the “good girl” – convenient, obedient, invisible. Fearing being unworthy of love became a habit.

I started pole dancing only at 27. Before that – no sports, no stretching, no confidence in movement. No “natural talent” or athletic background. Just a feeling inside: I can’t live disconnected from myself anymore. The dance wasn’t for the stage. It was to feel: I exist. I can be many things – and still be worthy of love.

Through movement I began building the inner support I lacked as a child. Pole dance didn’t make me perfect. But it taught me to be alive. To embrace tenderness, vulnerability and strength at the same time.

If you’re reading this and recognize something of yourself in my words – know this: you are not alone. Each of us carries her story. And each of us has the chance to rewrite it in her own way. And I am not ashamed. Because this is what makes me real.

If you feel ready to explore yourself more deeply, to learn to listen to your body and unlock your inner strength, I would be happy to welcome you to my courses. This is a space where you can work individually, step by step, without rush or extra eyes, fully immersing yourself in your sensations and movements. In these classes we develop flexibility, confidence, sensuality and inner harmony – everything that helps you become yourself, whole and alive.

Find out more and sign up here: Courses

Yekaterina Rekap