Meet Victoria Gracie: LA Mama, Dancer & Self Defense Instructor
Victoria Gracie
“Learn the game, then make your own rules!”
What do you do and what led you to this career?
I empower families through teaching self defense, writing children’s books and mentoring on mindful parenting. I am also a professional dancer and model in the entertainment industry, and have been performing for over 15 years on tour, television and film when I connected with my now husband. I then went on to learn about jiu-jitsu and how it could help others build confidence and defend themselves. As a woman in the industry, this was very appealing. I learned the art myself and then wanted to share.
Once I became a mother, I realized the art of jiu-jitsu relates with everything we experience as children, and wanted to create options for children to be exposed to and gain confidence from a young age. As a result, I created and wrote the first ever children’s picture book based on jiu-jitsu, which includes applicable techniques and insight to battle the bullying many children experience. Using jiu-jitsu and my years of dance and choreography experience, I also co-created a workout called FITjitsu that allows you to learn and master self-defense movements while getting a fierce workout. I am passionate about empowering humans to be their best and most authentic selves.
What are the names and ages of your little ones?
Valyn, who is 5 years old; and Vemma, who is 3 years old.
What has been your biggest career achievement thus far?
Writing a children’s book, co-creating FITjitsu, a martial arts based workout, and touring the world dancing for two years with major musical artists, including Rihanna and many others.
What is the most rewarding aspect of being a mother?
Watching humans learn to be fully capable at such a young age, and being inspired to be so present with them.
And what is the most challenging?
The major emotions their little bodies cannot always handle and get projected outwardly on the family.
What is your best advice for someone new to your industry?
Learn the game, then make your own rules!
What is your best advice for a new mother?
Boundaries are the key to personal happiness.
What's next for you? Do you have any exciting projects coming up?
I’m writing my second children’s book on the emotional understanding of bullying.
Follow Victoria at @VicGracie