In this episode of Community Conversations with Alex and Dydine, we sat down with Frederick Ocansey, a passionate advocate for mental and physical wellness through pilates and yoga. Frederick, whose parents originate from Ghana, shared how his journey into the world of movement was profoundly influenced by his mother and his background as a classically trained ballet dancer.
Growing up in Columbus, Ohio, Frederick’s household was filled with a unique blend of traditional Ghanaian values and a subtle but impactful introduction to Western practices of health and wellness. He recalls his mother regularly practicing pilates through VHS tapes in the living room. "I remember waking up and seeing her doing pilates every morning before school. It was just part of the background of my life," Frederick shared with a nostalgic smile.
His mother’s dedication to pilates was more than just a routine; it was a quiet yet powerful form of resilience and self-care. This early exposure to pilates naturally led Frederick to incorporate it into his own life, especially as he pursued a professional career in ballet. As a technically trained ballet dancer, Frederick found that pilates not only helped prevent injuries but also played a critical role in connecting his mind and body—a connection often overlooked in the fast-paced world of dance.
"Pilates for me was something that helped me move forward in my dance journey," Frederick explained. "It allowed me to connect my mind and body, which is crucial in dance. Often, there's a big disconnect—you might feel like you're performing in one way, but when you look back, it’s not quite what you intended."
Frederick spoke about the power of his vulnerability in these physical spaces. "Growing up, the idea of being like water—soft and fluid yet strong and dynamic—resonated with me. Knowing when to be fluid and when to be strong is crucial. It allows you to pivot in life, preventing you from getting stuck. This understanding is essential for personal and community growth."
His experience resonates with many who have found solace and strength in practices like yoga, pilates, and meditation, particularly within communities where these practices are not traditionally embraced. His story is a testament to the importance of mental and physical wellness, regardless of cultural background.
During our conversation, we touched on the challenges of introducing such practices in communities where they are often misunderstood or overlooked. For instance, in Dydine’s experience pilates or yoga was almost unheard of in many communities of Rwanda. Frederick reinforces the idea that yoga and mindfulness should be universal in practice. “It’s an interesting journey to not only embrace it myself but also to share its benefits with those around me," he said.
Frederick’s insights highlight the transformative power of movement and the potential it holds for bridging cultural gaps. His journey from a young boy inspired by his mother’s morning routines to a professional dancer and advocate for wellness is a reminder that health and self-care transcend boundaries and can be a unifying force in our diverse world.
As the conversation wrapped up, we reflected on the importance of such dialogues in expanding our understanding of wellness and the myriad ways it can manifest across different cultures. Frederick’s story serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to explore the intersection of movement, heritage, and personal growth.
For more insightful conversations like this one, stay tuned to Baserange Community Conversations with Alex and Dydine, where we continue to explore the stories that connect us all.