Shalita Grant

Shalita Grant Instagram – Hey girl, let’s talk fitness, pleasure and de-centering the patriarchal gaze from our bodies.
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I started pole dancing after I turned 30. I lifted heavy weights through most of my 20’s. While it was amazing and helped me in my career (I often opted to do my own stunts on NCISNOLA) after almost 10 years I was f’n bored 😑🥱😴
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After a while, the only aspect of my workout that inspired me was putting on a cute sports bra, some tiny shorts, a dope playlist (Some herb – way better than jittery Preworkout drinks) and watching my muscles in the mirror. But eventually, even that wasn’t enough to hold my interest. Enter pole.
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I spoke about this at length on the @wnbpodcast but what I love about pole is it’s not just “sexy” (🥱🙄 A concept steeped in patriarchy. Follow @afrosexology_ decolonize your desire and love yourself) it’s also strength, cirque, sensuality, self exploration/expression, spiritual growth and it’s fucking fun. The pole community is also incredibly inclusive. All body types, ages and genders are visible. I’ve poled all over the 🌍 Because, contrary to popular belief, pole dance is happening all over the world – not just the strip clubs. #russianexotic #blackgirlspole @jenny_pole_phuket
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My pole journey has helped me transform from the inside out. As a black lesbian, I’ve defined all the ways in which my sexuality, sensuality and view of myself has been shaped by the dominant culture. Standing alone in a room with music I love, watching my body take shapes and hold positions and, no matter what, loving and celebrating myself is a radical act. Centering my pleasure and joy in my workout is revolutionary. My core is strong, my arms are amazing, so grateful for my legs and an ass with high self esteem.
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The world is changing radically. Now more than ever, it’s important to have a strong relationship with yourself to help weather these unpredictable storms. Be radical and love yourself. Oh and take milk baths with essential oils and chief your way to a calmer more loving you.
💋 | Posted on 13/Aug/2020 02:20:17