Synopsis
An imbalanced mind-body connection can directly affect a performer’s craft. To run efficiently on all cylinders, performers must take steps to make mindful fuel and lifestyle choices. However, incorporating healthy habits into our busy day-to-day can be a challenge. Over time, energy wanes with erratic sleep cycles, long hours on set, and the consumption of processed foods high in sugar. Not to mention the ill effects caused by stress.
In a town where organic food prices and gym memberships soar, learn how performers can eat healthfully and exercise on a tight budget. When stress looms, gain insight into how meditation can soften mental chatter, and provide clarity of the mind. When our bodies feel sluggish and shoulders are tight with tension, learn forms of exercise that keep us agile. And discover tips for consistently maintaining your new healthy regimen.
Panelist Bios
Dan Bernstein (Sleep Specialist)
A former rock musician and bandleader, Daniel became enamored of Chinese medicine when an acupuncturist cured him of a hard bronchitis. Soon after graduating in 1995 from a four-year program, he opened a private practice in New York City. His fascination with hypnosis came later, and eventually he developed a protocol using both methods. He now helps people with issues related to sleep, stress, pain, digestion and anxiety.
In addition to a private practice in New York City, Daniel has taught acupuncture at university level and serves as a sleep therapy consultant to a major Wall Street firm. After 19 years in practice, he remains as passionate as ever about providing the community with an integrative and holistic approach to health care. And since people still ask the answer is yes, he still plays music. www.sleepspecialistnyc.com
Andrea Chernus (Nutritionist)
Andrea Chernus, RD, CDE, CSSD is a registered dietitian and exercise physiologist with a dual Master of Science degree in nutrition and applied physiology from Columbia University. In addition, Andrea is a Certified Diabetes Educator and a Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics. For the last eight years, Ms. Chernus has been advising students at The Juilliard School on healthful eating to fuel their performance. During its Broadway run, Andrea contributed to the development of a nutrition plan for the stars of Billy Elliot. Ms. Chernus maintains a private practice in New York City, where she sees many actors, dancers and vocalists. Andrea is the co-author of the book Nutrient Timing for Peak Performance (Human Kinetics, 2010). She has appeared on national and local radio and television and has been quoted in numerous national magazines, newspapers and websites.
Donald Garrity (Nutritionist)
Donald Garrity is a registered dietitian, certified by the state of New York. For the past 15 years I've been the nutrition counselor for MSKCC's IMS service. I counsel patients on cancer prevention diets and eating well during cancer treatment. I also specialize in the pros and cons, and safety and efficacy over-the-counter vitamin, mineral and herbal supplements. I counsel patients on the proper use of these supplements before, during and after cancer treatment including herb-drug interactions. My particular areas of interest outside of nutrition and cancer are in the fields of nutritional anthropology and genetics.
Brooke Lieb (Alexander Technique Teacher)
Director of Teacher Certification (2008 – present), received her Alexander Technique teaching certification from ACAT in 1989, joined the faculty in 1992, and served as Associate Director of Training at ACAT from 2006 to 2008. Brooke has taught at C. W. Post College, St. Rose College, Kutztown University, Pace University, The Actors Institute, The National Theatre Conservatory at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Dennison University, and Wagner College; and has made presentations for the Hospital for Special Surgery, the Scoliosis Foundation, and the Arthritis Foundation; Mercy College and Touro College, Departments of Physical Therapy; and Northern Westchester Hospital. She trained under Judith Leibowitz (introduced The Alexander Technique at the Juiliard Drama Division), and has done Post Graduate Studies with Walter and Dilys Carrington and Glynn MacDonald (head of Alexander and Movement at the Globe Theater Training School), among others. Brooke maintains a teaching practice in NYC, specializing in working with performing artists to alleviate performance anxiety and enhance voice and movement; and with people dealing with pain, back injuries and scoliosis. Brooke holds a Bachelors of Professional Studies in Musical Theater Performance and currently studies at HB Studio. (www.brookelieb.com/www.acatnyc.org)
Amanbir Singh (Kundalini Yoga Instructor; Licensed Acupuncturist)
Joseph Amanbir Young is a kundalini yoga teacher, yoga therapist & licensed acupuncturist based in New York City. He offers a healing and fun approach to the ancient lineage of Kundalini Yoga. In each class Amanbir is known for bringing his sense of humor, music, and extensive knowledge of the healing field. Amanbir currently teaches his in-depth understanding of western physiology, eastern anatomy & astrology in various yoga and therapy trainings world wide. He holds a Master of Science in Traditional Oriental Medicine and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from the Cooper Union. For more information visit his website at authenticharmony.com.
Moderator
Michelle Best (AEA SAG AFTRA) holds an MFA from the Actors' Studio program at the New School University, she can currently be seen on "Alpha House." As a comedian she has performed under the direction of Del Close (National College Comedy Festival, '96), Gary Austin (Groundling founder), Michael Gellman (Second City Chicago), and Ali Farahnakian (The PIT). As Artistic Director of the historic St. Malachy's, Michelle produced a show at the legendary Sardi's with Lorne Michaels (Chair) and Amy Poehler (Host) honoring the life of Chris Farley. She created and executive produced "Halfway There," a scenario based improvised sit-com pilot which became an "Official Selection Finalist" in the 2009 New York Television Festival. Michelle was again invited as an “Official Artist” in the 2011 NYTVF. Her leading off Broadway role in "Women in the Pit" (at the Billie Holiday as Rev. E. R. George), was AUDELCO nominated for "Dramatic Production of the Year 2012", and "Outstanding Ensemble Performance". Michelle raises two teenage girls in Midtown Manhattan and currently has a national Duracell commercial based off her experience surviving widowhood. She continues to passionately develop new work for stage and screen. Michelle also volunteers as a frequent moderator for the non-profit SAG Foundation in NYC, and at the Professional Performing Arts School. Michelle taught Improvisation and Acting at the New York Film Academy, and continues to coach privately in her Midtown studio.
