Hayley Erbert, a celebrated dancer known for her performances on "So You Think You Can Dance" and "Dancing With the Stars," has captivated audiences with her talent, resilience, and inspiring journey. From her early beginnings to her recent health challenges and triumphant return to the stage, Hayley’s story is one of strength, determination, and the healing power of movement. This article delves into Hayley Erbert's diet and workout routine, her health journey, and her inspiring approach to life.
A Triumphant Return to the Dance Floor
On October 15, the "Dancing With the Stars" ballroom was filled with anticipation as Derek Hough and Hayley Erbert Hough prepared for their first dance together in months. This performance marked Hayley’s return to the DWTS floor since undergoing emergency brain surgery, making it a deeply emotional and significant moment. Their contemporary piece was a heartfelt tribute to resilience, healing, and the unwavering love that carried them through challenging times.
Derek Hough shared that he wanted their return to the ballroom to begin with a slow dance, a thoughtful approach that set the tone for a performance blending gentle stillness with intricate choreography. Set to Benson Boone’s "Beautiful Things," the dance highlighted the tender connection between Derek and Hayley, a testament to their shared journey. Derek noted that each movement was crafted to convey their emotions, emphasizing the musicality and the emotional depth of the performance.
Overcoming Adversity: Hayley's Health Journey
The couple’s journey took a dramatic turn shortly before the holiday season when Hayley experienced a medical emergency while on tour. As Derek waited for Hayley to join him onstage, he was informed that she was not coming. He found her having full body seizures. Hayley was rushed to the hospital, where doctors determined she needed emergency brain surgery. Derek confessed that the doctors were extremely concerned, but Hayley’s strength shone through, and her recovery defied expectations.
Derek expressed his disbelief and gratitude that they were dancing together again, emphasizing that the performance was a celebration of Hayley’s resilience and their profound connection. The dance highlighted Hayley’s ability to move and dance with full facility, a remarkable achievement given what she had overcome.
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Prioritizing Health: The Head Care Club Campaign
Beyond her personal journey, Hayley and Derek have teamed up with the Head Care Club by Excedrin to promote head health and wellness. Derek joined the Head Care Club campaign to share information about how non-pharmacological methods like nutrition, mindfulness, and movement can help aid head health. The program offers free videos and resources on nutrition, mindfulness, and movement routines, all approved by board-certified neurologist Dr. Deena Kuruvilla.
Dr. Kuruvilla emphasized that lifestyle choices can significantly impact head discomfort. Regular sleep, balanced meals, and hydration are proactive measures to mitigate head pain and support holistic head health. She also noted that migraine episodes can have lingering challenges, highlighting the importance of ongoing management.
Dr. Brian M. Plato, a neurologist and headache specialist, agreed, comparing migraine management to managing other chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes. He emphasized that lifestyle and behavioral changes can be beneficial in managing migraine, while medication becomes necessary when attacks interfere with daily tasks and non-pharmacological strategies are insufficient.
Hayley Erbert's Diet and Nutrition
Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for overall well-being, especially for those with physically demanding careers like Hayley Erbert. Eating a healthy diet, avoiding fasting, and staying well hydrated are important for head health. Hayley and Derek prioritize taking care of their bodies through supplements, healthy eating, and hydration.
Key Dietary Recommendations
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Dr. Kuruvilla recommended avoiding personal food triggers, such as aged cheeses, processed meats, and nuts.
- Magnesium-Rich Foods: Eating foods high in magnesium may help reduce migraine attacks.
- Balanced Meals: Ensure you eat balanced and consistent meals, including regular snacks, to avoid skipping meals.
Hayley Erbert's Workout Routine
Hayley Erbert’s fitness regimen is diverse, incorporating dance, hiking, swimming, and restorative practices like ice baths. Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining her peak athleticism and overall health.
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Dancing
Dancing is a central part of Hayley's fitness routine. Dancing can be a way to stay fit for people of all ages, shapes and sizes. It offers numerous physical and mental benefits, making it an ideal exercise for overall well-being.
Hiking
Hayley loves to go hiking, sometimes with her pets. Hiking provides a great cardio workout, reduces the risk of heart disease, and helps build muscle mass and prevent osteoporosis.
Swimming
Hayley enjoys swimming and snorkeling. Exercise in an aquatic environment offers numerous options and techniques for almost all levels of physical ability. Water activities improve range of motion, balance, and strength.
Ice Baths
Hayley and Derek use ice baths to expedite their recovery process after shows. Icing after extreme physical activity is a non-negotiable for them.
Movement Routines for Head Health
Hayley and Derek created movement routines for the Head Care Club, including aerobic motions and restorative yoga. The routines aim to increase circulation, oxygen flow, and heart rate.
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- Aerobic Exercises: Engaging in aerobic exercises like jogging, swimming, and walking can reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks.
- Yoga and Stretching: Less-strenuous stretching and yoga are also beneficial, helping to destress and relax the body.
Hough emphasized that anyone can participate in the stretching videos, demonstrating simple morning routines to activate joints and open up the body. The goal is to move at your own pace and have fun with the movements.
Mindfulness and Mental Wellness
In addition to physical activity and nutrition, mindfulness plays a crucial role in Hayley Erbert's wellness routine. Mindfulness-based meditation is an important tool to manage migraine, as high stress is a leading cause of head pain. Embedding mindful practices into daily life can help destress and relax the mind and body. Meditation and breathing exercises are great ways to calm the mind and support head health.
A Love Story
Hayley Erbert and Derek Hough's relationship began on "Dancing With the Stars," where they met. Their connection deepened over time, leading to their engagement. The couple supports each other's careers and shares a love for adventure. Derek often shares videos of Hayley cooking nutritious meals and expresses his admiration for her on social media.