Gracefully You Discussion Questions

1. What does Jenna Dewan emphasize as the most crucial part of her daily routine in Chapter 1, and why is it significant?

Jenna Dewan emphasizes the importance of setting daily intentions as a crucial part of her routine. This practice is significant because it allows her to honor her desires and stay accountable to her goals. By setting an intention, Dewan focuses on how she wants to feel throughout the day rather than on specific outcomes, which gives her the power to approach situations positively, regardless of unexpected events or disappointments. This mindset shift has profoundly transformed her life, demonstrating that while we cannot control external circumstances, we can control our reactions and emotional responses.

2. How does Dewan illustrate the practice of setting intentions with practical examples?

Dewan illustrates the practice of setting intentions by providing relatable examples from her life. For instance, she might resolve, 'Today I intend to feel confident' or 'I intend to feel accomplished,' which influences her choices throughout the day. She details scenarios where decisions must be made—such as choosing between attending a happy hour or a work meeting—where reflecting on her intentions helps her align her actions with her desired feelings. This approach not only enhances her sense of purpose but allows her to maintain a clear connection with her goals despite life's unpredictability.

3. What methods does Dewan use to connect with herself and set her intentions, and what benefits does she describe for these practices?

Dewan reports using several methods to connect with herself and set her intentions, which include meditation during her morning shower, using oracle cards for daily guidance, and nourishing her body with a nutritious smoothie. Each practice offers distinct benefits: meditation helps her start the day with a clear mind and intention, oracle cards provide insight and inspiration, and the smoothie serves as a healthful boost that reinforces her commitment to self-care. Collectively, these practices foster a stronger connection to the present moment and contribute positively to her overall well-being.

4. How does Jenna Dewan approach the concept of control in her life, according to Chapter 1?

In Chapter 1, Dewan addresses the concept of control by acknowledging that while we cannot control external events, we can control our internal responses and feelings. She emphasizes that setting intentions helps reclaim personal agency, asserting that individuals can influence their emotional landscape instead of reacting passively to situational outcomes. This understanding empowers her to navigate disappointments with grace, ultimately teaching her that the responsibility for her emotional state lies in her hands, which can lead to significant personal growth and fulfillment.

5. What specific practices does Dewan recommend for her readers to create a more intentional daily routine?

Dewan recommends several specific practices for her readers to create a more intentional daily routine, including: 1. **Morning Meditation**: Taking a brief period, even in the shower, to meditate and focus on breath to set a calm tone for the day. 2. **Daily Intentions**: Choosing a feeling to cultivate throughout the day, such as 'strong,' 'confident,' or 'accomplished.' 3. **Using Oracle Cards**: Engaging with oracle cards for daily guidance to foster introspection and clarity. 4. **Healthy Nutrition**: Preparing and consuming a nourishing smoothie, highlighting the importance of good nutrition for energy and well-being. 5. **Mindful Flexibility**: Being adaptable and reassessing priorities when unexpected situations arise, ensuring that intentions align with daily actions. These practices, she notes, can help establish a positive foundation for facing daily challenges.

1. What does Jenna Dewan prioritize when decorating her home, and how does this reflect her personal values?

Jenna prioritizes creating a comfortable and inviting space where people can come together and relax. Instead of aiming for a perfect and museum-like atmosphere, she emphasizes the importance of every room feeling lived in and personal. This reflects her values of comfort, accessibility, and the significance of personal expression through her home décor. She wants her home to embody a sense of lightness, love, and peace, rather than just aesthetic appeal. Dewan believes that a home should be a true reflection of one's energy and style.

2. How does Jenna's fashion sense influence her interior design choices?

Jenna's fashion sense is described as a mix of hippie and classic styles, which translates into her home décor. She gravitates towards comfortable, feminine pieces and employs mixed textures to create a laid-back atmosphere in her home. The bohemian aspects are balanced by clean lines and elevated taste, mirroring her personal style. This blending underscores her desire for her home to reflect her personality while ensuring it remains comfortable and inviting.

3. What significance do personal objects and sentimental items hold for Jenna, and how do they impact the atmosphere of her home?

Personal objects and sentimental items are crucial for Jenna, as they transform a house into a home filled with meaning and warmth. She highlights items like her grandmother's tea set and treasures from her travels that tell stories and evoke emotions. These unique pieces provide a sense of connection to her past and family, making her living space deeply personal. This approach fosters an environment that is not just visually appealing, but emotionally resonant, contributing to the overall energy of comfort and belonging.

4. What are Jenna's thoughts on clutter and organization within her home?

Jenna acknowledges that she is not naturally organized; however, she actively works to maintain an orderly space through regular purges and decluttering. She follows principles similar to Marie Kondo’s method, believing that keeping only items that bring joy is essential for both mental clarity and emotional well-being. By routinely clearing out things that no longer serve a purpose or add to the positive energy of her home, she creates a healthier, more peaceful living environment.

5. How does Jenna incorporate spiritual practices into her home and daily life?

Jenna incorporates spirituality into her home through objects like crystals, meaningful statues, and by creating a sacred space for meditation and reflection. She believes these elements heighten the positive energy in her home and support her spiritual practices. Jenna discusses her rituals, including setting intentions with candles, using crystals for healing, and having a sacred area where she connects to her mental and emotional well-being. This spiritual aspect enhances her approach to creating a nurturing and harmonious home environment.

1. What is the relationship between inner beauty and outer beauty as presented in this chapter?

In Chapter 3, Jenna Dewan emphasizes that inner beauty significantly influences outer beauty. She believes that when an individual feels beautiful and positive on the inside, it enhances their outward appearance and demeanor. Conversely, if one is experiencing negative emotions such as sadness, stress, or anxiety, it becomes difficult to project a sense of beauty, regardless of external grooming or makeup efforts. Jenna argues that feelings of discontent can overshadow one's ability to appreciate their physical appearance, making them feel unattractive regardless of how curated their look might be.

2. How does Jenna describe her experience as an empath, and what challenges does she face due to this trait?

Jenna describes herself as a hard-core empath, which means she tends to absorb the emotions and energies of others rather than just sympathizing with them. This trait poses a challenge for her; when she encounters someone who is upset or stressed, she can take on their feelings as if they were her own, leading to feelings of heaviness or sadness. She notes that this impact can linger even after the interaction, causing her emotional strain. However, Jenna also recognizes the positive aspects of being an empath, such as her ability to provide compassion and insightful advice to others. To manage the emotional burden, she has learned to create healthy boundaries and practice self-care rituals.

3. What does Jenna mean by 'spiritual hygiene,' and why does she consider it important?

Jenna introduces the concept of 'spiritual hygiene' as a necessary practice for maintaining emotional and spiritual well-being, similarly to maintaining physical hygiene. She believes that negative emotions and stress can accumulate in the body, leading to various issues such as illness, fatigue, and mental distress. To combat this, Jenna advocates for regular self-care practices that cleanse and purify the spirit, which includes rituals such as visualization, breathwork, and self-reflection. By regularly engaging in spiritual hygiene, she feels more emotionally clear and rejuvenated, which in turn enhances her inner beauty and overall well-being.

4. What are the key components of Jenna's recommended 'at-home plant bath,' and what benefits does she associate with it?

Jenna's at-home plant bath consists of a combination of Dead Sea salt or Epsom salt, essential oils (like lavender), and conditioning oils (like coconut or argan oil). She encourages the use of a generous amount of salt for its purifying qualities while also incorporating oils for moisture to prevent dryness. The practice involves soaking in this blend, ideally while focusing on letting go of negative energy and emotional burdens. Jenna associates this ritual with a feeling of renewal and emotional release, likening the experience to a rebirth. It is a way for her to cleanse herself of the day's stresses and feel grounded and peaceful.

5. What role do 'Goddess Circles' play in Jenna's life, and how does she recommend hosting such gatherings?

Goddess Circles are gatherings that Jenna describes as healing experiences for women, where they can share their personal journeys in a supportive environment. These circles foster deep conversations about life, emotions, and spiritual growth, creating a sense of community and connection among the participants. To host a successful Goddess Circle, Jenna suggests gathering open-hearted friends, setting up a comfortable atmosphere, providing refreshments, and encouraging participants to share their stories in a meaningful way. She emphasizes that these gatherings should focus on inner growth and be a safe space for vulnerability, laughter, and support among women.

1. What experiences influenced Jenna Dewan's decision to adopt a vegetarian and then a vegan lifestyle?

From a young age, Jenna Dewan was disturbed by the idea of consuming meat, often questioning whether her food had once had parents. Her strong reaction to a documentary about slaughterhouses during her preteen years deepened her empathy for animals and led her to declare herself a vegetarian. Despite learning about nutrition, she predominantly ate carbs during her teen years, leading to health issues that prompted her to eliminate dairy entirely after realizing its negative effects on her body. This combination of ethical beliefs and health concerns ultimately steered her towards veganism, which she found significantly improved her overall well-being.

2. How did Jenna's approach to nutrition evolve after meeting Kimberly Snyder?

Meeting nutritionist Kimberly Snyder was a turning point for Jenna's approach to nutrition. Unlike her previous experiences, she fully embraced Snyder's advice, which encompassed healthier eating practices such as incorporating better grains, protein-packed beans, and proper food combinations. This knowledge not only enhanced Jenna's understanding of a healthy vegan diet but also improved how she felt physically. The Glowing Green Smoothie became a staple in her daily routine, indicating the lasting impact Snyder's guidance had on her lifestyle.

3. What parenting strategies does Jenna Dewan mention regarding raising her daughter, Everly, with a healthy diet?

Jenna Dewan emphasizes leading by example rather than forcing her beliefs on Everly. She has introduced her daughter to healthy options, starting with vegetables like steamed zucchini, which Everly has enjoyed since she was eight months old. Jenna keeps healthy snacks available and allows occasional indulgences like ice cream, promoting a balanced approach to eating. She acknowledges that as Everly grows, peer influence will play a role in her dietary choices, so Jenna has learned to relax her rigid expectations and hope that her daughter continues to enjoy healthy foods.

4. Jenna discusses emotional healing in the chapter. What practices does she suggest for coping with heartbreak?

Jenna Tsuggests several practices for coping with heartbreak, including the importance of acknowledging emotions and doing the necessary work to heal. She recommends seeking therapy, engaging in breathwork, meditating, spending time in nature, and having supportive conversations with friends. These practices help individuals process their feelings instead of projecting them onto others. She emphasizes that healing is a gradual process and encourages readers to accept their emotions, as this is essential for moving forward and becoming a stronger person after trauma.

5. What role does holy basil play in Jenna Dewan's approach to emotional wellness, and how does she incorporate it?

Holy basil is highlighted as a powerful herb in Jenna's emotional wellness toolkit. She explains that it can help reduce cortisol levels, alleviating anxiety and stress related to difficult emotions. Jenna incorporates holy basil into her routine by consuming it as a supplement or drinking it as tea. She believes in the healing properties it offers, especially when combined with other elements focused on emotional healing. This holistic approach reflects her commitment to nurturing both her physical and emotional health.

1. What does Jenna Dewan mean by going through an 'extra' phase in her fashion choices?

In Chapter 5, Jenna describes her early fashion choices as 'extra,' characterized by heavy makeup and flamboyant clothing, such as a pink off-the-shoulder ruffle blouse and excessively curled eyelashes adorned with glitter. She suggests that this 'extra' phase is common among young women who, after being somewhat suppressed in their youth regarding self-expression, embrace a more flamboyant style as adults. She reflects on how this phase played a significant role in her journey to finding her authentic self and personal style.

2. How does Jenna's style evolve throughout the chapter?

Jenna discusses her style evolution from her initial 'extra' fashion choices to a more toned-down and streamlined aesthetic. She describes her current style as embodying a California beach vibe, favoring comfort and simplicity over needlessly complicated outfits. She identifies her clothing style as a mix of hippie, classic, and sensual, which aligns more closely with her personality. This evolution is also a representation of her desire to express her true self rather than trying to conform to external expectations.

3. What insight does Jenna gain about how her style choices reflect her lifestyle?

Jenna emphasizes that her clothing choices should support her lifestyle, which values ease and flow. She prefers outfits that allow for a quick transition from day to night, advocating for practicality without compromising style. For example, she enjoys wearing jeans and a T-shirt during the day and easily transitioning to a more polished look for evening engagements. She articulates that dressing with grace means not having to stress over outfits, which aligns with her go-with-the-flow personality.

4. How does Jenna approach dressing for events compared to her day-to-day style?

Jenna highlights a distinct difference between her everyday style and how she dresses for special events. For daily wear, she opts for low-maintenance, comfortable clothing emphasizing practicality. However, for events, she allows herself the luxury of spending extra time to prepare and chooses outfits that incorporate glamour and a 'wow' factor. She actively seeks pieces that are high-maintenance and showcase her femininity, reflecting both her personal style and her experience growing up in dance.

5. What lesson does Jenna learn about confidence and authenticity in her fashion choices?

Jenna learns the importance of trusting her instincts when it comes to fashion. She recounts experiences where she accepted stylistic choices that didn’t resonate with her personal style, resulting in regret. This led to a revelation: feeling comfortable and confident in what you wear should take precedence over designer labels or societal expectations. By embracing her true self and being proud of her body, she discovers that authenticity in fashion contributes to her overall confidence and enjoyment of life.

1. What does Jenna Dewan emphasize about the connection between body and mind in Chapter 6?

Jenna Dewan emphasizes that there is a crucial connection between the mind and the body that has been neglected in today's technology-driven world. She argues that while technology can engage our minds, it often disconnects us from our bodies. This disconnect can lead to negative physical and emotional consequences. Dewan advocates for daily practices that foster this connection, stating that engaging with one's body, through movement or simple awareness, helps to achieve clarity and confidence. She shares personal anecdotes about how movement has positively impacted her decision-making and emotional clarity.

2. How does Jenna Dewan relate her childhood experiences with body image to her current understanding of self-acceptance?

Jenna recounts her childhood where she was criticized for being too skinny, which instilled insecurities regarding her body. However, her mother taught her to embrace her natural body type and to focus on making healthy choices rather than conforming to others' perceptions. This early lesson helped build her confidence. Later in college, as she gained weight and felt insecure about her body again, she recognized that insecurity doesn't only come with being underweight but can also arise from societal pressures and body image standards. Ultimately, Dewan reflects on the importance of loving one's unique body and fostering an inner strength that guides self-acceptance.

3. What practices does Dewan suggest to enhance the body-mind connection, and how does she explain their benefits?

Dewan suggests several practices to enhance the body-mind connection including free dancing, yoga, and grounding poses. She notes that engaging in physical activities allows us to release tension, boost mood, and gain clarity in decision-making. For example, she mentions how moving her body through dance helps her process emotions and provides insights that she might overlook when just thinking analytically. Grounding poses are also highlighted for their ability to center the mind and body, making it easier to handle stress and emotional challenges. These practices help individuals tap into their feelings and make decisions that align more closely with their true selves.

4. How does Jenna Dewan address the influence of social media on body image and self-esteem in Chapter 6?

Jenna discusses the pervasive influence of social media on body image, pointing out that it has heightened pressures for women to conform to certain beauty standards. She notes how easy it is to manipulate images and how this misrepresentation can negatively affect self-esteem. Dewan emphasizes that while historical comparisons to magazine images were misleading due to Photoshop, social media's real-time alterations create a constant stream of unrealistic body types. She argues that rather than focusing on comparisons, women should prioritize inner strength and health, aiming to build self-love rather than self-criticism. This shift in focus helps combat negative feelings born from societal and peer pressures.

5. What insights does Dewan provide about decision-making and how body awareness plays a role in this process?

Jenna Dewan shares personal insights on decision-making by illustrating how she utilizes her body's reactions to guide her choices. Instead of solely relying on mental calculations, she describes listening to her body's physical signals—such as tension or excitement—in response to potential decisions. For instance, if the thought of an opportunity causes discomfort, she interprets it as a sign to reconsider. She also discusses a technique involving flipping a coin to gauge feelings about a decision, suggesting that one should notice their reaction to the outcome of the flip for further clarity. This approach emphasizes that our bodies can provide valuable information about our true desires and help navigate life's complex choices.

1. What does Jenna Dewan mean by 'feast or famine' in the entertainment industry?

Jenna Dewan describes the nature of working in Hollywood as 'feast or famine,' indicating that actors often experience cycles of extreme busyness when they are booked on projects, followed by periods of struggle when they may find it difficult to secure work. This unpredictability demands flexibility, as schedules and plans can change at a moment's notice due to various production factors.

2. How did Jenna navigate her dual roles as an actress and a mother during filming?

Jenna shares the challenges of balancing her responsibilities as a mother with her demanding schedule as an actress. During the filming of 'The Resident,' changes to her filming schedule required her to quickly adapt her personal plans for her daughter, Evie. She emphasizes that her daughter always comes first and that over time, she has learned to expect and manage such unpredictability in her professional life.

3. What major lesson did Jenna learn from her experience filming 'Take the Lead'?

Jenna reflects on her disappointment after discovering that her significant role in 'Take the Lead' was severely diminished in the final cut of the film. This experience taught her to accept that sometimes outcomes are out of her control and encouraged her to not take such disappointments personally. She learned the value of resilience, understanding that rejection is a part of the industry and that something better may come along later.

4. How did Jenna's experience with her audition for 'Step Up' shape her understanding of persistence?

Jenna’s audition journey for 'Step Up' was fraught with challenges, including confusion over the audition scene and changing her look multiple times to fit the producers' vision. Despite feeling discouraged, she persevered, which ultimately led to her landing the role of Nora. This reinforced the notion that persistence, coupled with self-belief, is essential in overcoming obstacles and achieving success.

5. What is the significance of creating a 'rider' for oneself in the entertainment industry, according to Jenna?

Jenna explains that a 'rider' consists of specific requests made by talent to ensure they have a comfortable and conducive working environment. Initially hesitant, she learned the importance of articulating her needs for personal comfort, which included items that help her feel grounded and focused while working. This practice underscores the idea that everyone should seek to create supportive environments that enable them to perform their best, regardless of the industry.

1. What inspired Jenna Dewan's desire to raise a large family?

Jenna Dewan expresses that her desire for a large family stems from her experience as an only child and the constant moving during her upbringing. She craved the opposite of her childhood – a sense of rootedness and a vibrant household filled with the chaos of kids, friends, and family. This longing for a joyful family environment was a significant part of her vision for her future.

2. How has becoming a mother transformed Jenna's priorities and sense of self?

Becoming a mother has profoundly transformed Jenna's priorities, filling her with a sense of purpose and focus that shifted her away from her ego. She describes the experience as the 'best, most fulfilling, most beautiful' aspect of her life, signifying a deep connection and a shared agreement with her daughter, Everly. This experience has opened her heart, changing her view of what is truly significant in life.

3. What strategies does Jenna use to foster self-confidence in her daughter, Everly?

Jenna emphasizes the importance of self-confidence in children, particularly in her daughter, Everly. She aims to foster this by allowing Everly to express her strong opinions and individuality without trying to mold her into another version of herself. Jenna listens to Everly, connects with her emotionally, and creates environments where Everly can explore her creativity, whether through dance or art, encouraging her to have fun and embrace her strengths.

4. How does Jenna manage transitions and routines to support her daughter’s emotional needs?

Jenna has developed a routine where she takes time to connect with Everly before transitioning to activities like dinner. Instead of abruptly shifting gears, she engages in a brief, playful interaction to ensure that Everly feels understood and respected. This approach helps to ease transitions and makes them feel more natural rather than forceful, reinforcing their bond and promoting emotional security.

5. What lessons has Jenna learned about parenting and self-trust from her experiences?

Jenna has learned that there is no singular correct way to parent and that listening to one’s own instincts is crucial. Through guidance from her doula, she has come to understand the importance of trusting herself, especially during challenging parenting moments. She emphasizes that her own values and the love she provides are sufficient, encouraging a belief in her ability to be the mother Everly needs, through various parenting milestones and challenges.

1. What major life change did Jenna Dewan discuss in Chapter 9, and how did it affect her understanding of grace?

Jenna Dewan discussed her divorce, which was a significant life change that occurred in the public eye. This experience taught her the true meaning of strength, resilience, and grace as she navigated the emotional hurdles of separation. Dewan realized that as difficult as the process was, it offered her an opportunity to grow both personally and spiritually. Instead of running from her pain, she chose to confront it, aiming to remain authentic to her beliefs about empowerment and positivity, ultimately leading her to a deeper understanding of grace.

2. How did Jenna approach her feelings of pain and sadness during her separation?

Rather than distracting herself or escaping her feelings, Jenna decided to confront her pain head-on. She honored her emotions by allowing herself to cry, scream, and acknowledge her sadness. This process meant sitting alone with her grief and working through her feelings as they emerged. Jenna learned that true growth comes from facing challenges directly, and she emphasized the importance of processing emotions rather than burying them. She recognized that this was necessary in order to truly heal and find her inner strength.

3. What did Jenna mean by saying that grace is like a muscle, and how does this concept apply to her experience?

Jenna described grace as a muscle that becomes stronger the more it's used. In her case, as she faced the challenges of her divorce and the public scrutiny that accompanied it, she made a conscious effort to act with grace despite her feelings of anger and hurt. By practicing grace daily and reminding herself not to react impulsively, she built resilience and a higher level of emotional strength. This practice enabled her to respond thoughtfully to situations rather than letting fear or hurt dictate her actions.

4. What role did social media play in Jenna's handling of her divorce and public scrutiny?

Social media presented a challenge for Jenna during her divorce as it amplified the public's interest and speculation about her personal life. She felt the pressure to react to online comments and rumors, which often resulted in the temptation to lash out. However, Jenna implemented a strategy of restraint by writing and saving her thoughts before deciding not to post them publicly, acknowledging the permanence of online interactions. She aimed to choose words that she would be comfortable with her daughter reading in the future, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful communication.

5. How did Jenna’s interaction with Channing’s ex-girlfriend influence her understanding of grace?

Jenna's unexpected encounter with Channing's ex-girlfriend, Erica, profoundly impacted her understanding of grace. Despite the potential for tension, Erica greeted Jenna warmly, demonstrating kindness and composure. This interaction highlighted for Jenna the power of choosing grace over hostility, reinforcing the idea that grace can improve difficult situations and foster positive connections. It served as a reminder that even in challenging circumstances, one can choose to act with love and respect, elevating the emotional maturity of both parties involved.