Misty Copeland Reveals Essential Items in Her Daily Life

Misty Copeland, a renowned ballet dancer and cultural icon, recently shared her indispensable items in a partnership with LeapFrog to launch LeapMove, an engaging educational game. Known for her groundbreaking achievements in ballet, Copeland’s list includes everything from practical tools to nostalgic treats that have shaped her life both on and off the stage.

Practical Tips from a Lifelong Performer

Among her most cherished items is a simple yet effective tool: dental floss. “I’ve been using this for over 20 years,” Copeland explained, emphasizing the importance of cost-effective solutions in the world of ballet. She learned this tip from seasoned ballerinas who advised her against spending excessively on specialized threads for sewing pointe shoes and slippers. “The floss is so strong; it’s not going to break,” she added, underscoring the potential disaster of a ribbon malfunction during a performance.

In addition to dental floss, Copeland swears by a steel compress originally designed for boxers. “Instead of doing the whole setup with ice and water, this is really quick,” she noted, highlighting the benefits of this tool for reducing puffiness. This discovery, courtesy of her husband, has become a staple in her beauty routine.

A Taste of Home and Comfort

Among her favorite snacks, Copeland lists David sunflower seeds, which hold significant sentimental value. “I can’t believe I don’t have an endorsement deal yet because I’ve been eating David sunflower seeds since I was about 7,” she shared. The ritual of sharing these seeds with her father as a child has transformed into a comforting habit during stressful times. “It’s like a therapy session,” she said, explaining how she keeps a bag in her nightstand for late-night cravings.

Her culinary preferences reflect her Los Angeles upbringing, where spicy food is a staple. “I’m always looking for the spiciest thing,” she remarked, mentioning her discovery of Trader Joe’s habanero sauce. Her husband, unable to handle the heat, often finds himself on the receiving end of her culinary adventures.

An essential part of Copeland’s daily wear includes versatile clothing that transitions easily from casual to professional settings. “They’re cute, they’re effortlessly chic, but they’re so comfortable,” she said about her go-to items, which have become a favorite in her wardrobe over the past year.

The Importance of Movement in Learning

In her collaboration with LeapFrog, Copeland expressed enthusiasm for integrating movement into education. “It felt like community as well, with everyone cheering each other on,” she stated, reflecting on the positive environment fostered through the LeapMove game. Her commitment to education through the arts aligns closely with the mission of the Misty Copeland Foundation, which emphasizes the significance of movement in learning.

As a performer who has navigated the challenges of ballet, including the physical demands and financial constraints, Copeland remains grounded in her roots. “As a young performer, you don’t step into this field to make lots of money,” she explained, highlighting the artistic sacrifices made by many dancers.

In sharing her personal insights and favorite items, Misty Copeland not only reveals the practical side of her life as a ballet dancer but also the emotional connections that shape her experiences, both on and off the stage.