You need to know Sheila Kelley.  Not only did she star in Gossip Girl and Lost, but she also has created S Factor, an all-encompassing workout for women.  By saying that it’s a pole dancing class would be bastardizing it. It’s an experience that challenges you physically, mentally, and emotionally. In the grand scheme of things, Sheila really wants to confront society in what they see as beautiful and sexy.  In her newest campaign, #RedefiningSexy, she pushes the limits and challenges stereotypes. I am a strong believer in what she does for woman and her personal philosophy on the feminine energy, which you can hear more about in her most recent TEDxTalk. I was so lucky to have to chance to interview Sheila a few weeks ago. I hope you feel the same sort of empowerment and gratitude that I felt. She is truly doing wonderful things for women.

1. In your campaign to redefine sexy, you really push the limits of stereotypically “unsexy” labels. What inspired you to do this?

I’m naturally a boundary pusher. I think society should be challenged and we need to reclaim the feminine nature. I find every woman riveting, beautiful, and sexy. This is a cause close and personal to me. No woman is exempt from societal pressures and body issues.

2. What do you think women need to know about feeling sexy?

Women need to stop putting themselves last. They need to believe in their feminine life source. They need to stop feeling guilty or silly and embrace a healthy sexuality. It’s about connecting with the body and knowing yourself.

3. What do you think is important for women to feel beautiful at all times? What advice would you give?

It’s about creating a new way of life. It’s about seeing the world from a feminine point of view. As women, this is natural and authentic. Right now, there is too much masculine energy. We are raised in a world where women are vilified. I want to inspire women and help them tap into their  feminine creature. I would recommend that women have more gatherings. It’s sad that women have no women friends and are catty towards each other.  By gathering women and loving each other, the feminine energy is able to grow. Get together a group of girlfriends and have everyone compliment the woman to their right. It’s amazing what that can do.

4. What’s next for S Factor? What’s one thing you have yet to accomplish?

Besides the S Factor book, I am working on a book about sexual talents. I would also like to offer online classes so that women everywhere can learn the S Factor essentials. I also want to grow an online community so that women can gather and talk. I think that would be very powerful.

Now you’ve met Sheila! Below I have the #RedefiningSexy videos and the stories behind them. Beginning with a video (as seen below) of Diana, a breast cancer patient, Sheila paved the way for #RedefiningSexy. Diana felt that the cancer had taken over her body and left her feeling less than herself.  Filmed a mere 6 days after her surgery, Diana shows us that not even cancer can stop you from being sexy.

The second video in the campaign is about Ali, a first-time mother, who felt disconnected from her body after an unplanned c-section.  Only 8 weeks postpartum, Ali joined S Factor to reconnect with her womanhood.

I hope these videos inspire you to connect with yourself and your feminine powers. After my intro class, I felt so alive and empowered and beautiful. I felt like I exuded so much confidence and radiance, and I didn’t want the feeling to stop. The classrooms are dimly lit and sans mirrors. The instructors are warm, friendly, and engaging. If I had the disposable income, I would sign up for the entire series. It was a challenge for myself in so many ways. I didn’t think I would have the upper body muscles. I didn’t think I would be comfortable. I didn’t think I could do the moves in front of other women. But I did! It was a testament of not just bodily strength, but also personal and inner strength. I encourage you all to redefine yourself and how you approach your feminine self, other women, and the world around you. Learn more from Sheila at @TheSheilaKelley!

Redefine Sexy!