The One Ritual Misty Copeland Relies On To Stay Grounded

mbg caught up with the prima ballerina at the launch event for Naked's new Fruit, Nut & Veggie Bar to talk about her wellness philosophy, body diversity, and her favorite snacks. Read on to glean more insight from the practices that keep Copeland ready and fueled.

Copeland believes that using her platform to address self-acceptance and representation, specifically for women and people of color, is vital for enacting change. "It’s important for me to have a platform and speak so openly about being healthy, strong, and an individual," she told mbg. The dancer, whose petite and athletic physique makes her an anomaly in the ballet world, speaks candidly about her struggles with weight and understands wellness is a journey. She hopes to change the status quo of what’s viewed as a "ballerina body"—also the title of her second book, which debuted in 2017.

So what does meditation look like for someone who moves for a living? "I think it’s important for people to find something that grounds them and balances them out throughout the day," says Misty, who cites the ritual of a ballet class as her form of meditation. "It keeps my mind focused and set for the day, especially when everything can be chaotic."

Launched into the professional dance world at a young age, Copeland had little guidance on even the basics of nutrition and fueling herself in the right way, which left Misty confused about healthy food choices. Now she aims for foods that keep her "energized and light but not full." She feels her best when she sticks to a pescatarian diet and credits snacks like dried fruit, vegetables, and nuts among her favorites. As an ambassador for the new Naked Fruit, Nut & Veggie bars, Copeland expressed enthusiasm for the snack's holistic ingredients. "Just to see the fresh ingredients in the new Naked Fruit, Nut & Veggie bars is super exciting. It’s a bar that has everything I need in one place—and with kale!”

Hungry to know more about the wellness rituals of spotlighted women? Here’s how Meghan Markle views the role of fitness in her life.