It was the first time in my life that I everreallyrecognized myself.

I waited half a century for that moment, but it was worth it.

It has changed every single aspect of my life.

alt

Walking into the studio for the first time, I was terrified.

Are they going to reject me?

But now, Im right up in front of the mirror.

Two young women practicing ballet with a teacher in the dance hall.

…

I feel like Ive earned my spot there, and with that, Ive earned my confidence.

I started gangly, insecure, stick straight, and terrified.

But I get that in the studio.

Woman doing hip exercises

As told to Zoe Weiner

Oh hi!

You look like someone who loves free workouts, discounts for cutting-edge wellness brands, and exclusive Well+Good content.

Sign up for Well+, our online community of wellness insiders, and unlock your rewards instantly.

Cropped image of woman doing lunge yoga pose

…

Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.

Woman in leggings and bra doing Lunge with Arm Extended Up pose hip opener stretch during yoga session in morning at home.

Woman doing arm exercise without weights while sitting on mat at home.

A woman in sports clothes does yoga or gymnastics at home. Daylight. She smiles