As many of you are about to embark on your 30 day yoga challenge, it makes me think about what it is like to start something new, move into the unknown, and deal with the concerns that arise.
I have noticed that when I get excited about a new challenge-whether it is a new physical activity, a trip, or learning a new aspect of my yoga practice-often what immediately arises is not excitement as much as concern and fear. I may first say to myself “I don’t know if I can do it,” and “I don’t have the time.” I find myself stopped and then I question whether this is for me. But my yoga practice reminds me that fear is universal. It is nothing to run away from, but rather an opportunity to embrace with loving compassion.
Pema Chodron, author of “When Things Fall Apart- Heart Advice for Difficult Times” beautifully illustrates this message when she says,
“fear is a universal experience. Even the smallest insect feels it. We wade in the tidal pools and put our finger near the soft, open bodies of sea anemones and they close up. Everything spontaneously does that. It’s not a terrible thing that we feel fear when faced with the unknown. It is part of being alive, something we all share. We react against the possibility of loneliness, of death, of not having anything to hold on to. Fear is a natural reaction to moving closer to the truth.”
I notice that during whatever challenge I take on, there is a time when I have to be uncomfortable. And then at some point, what seemed impossible becomes a way of life. I have witnessed how my thoughts can stop me or inspire me. I choose to be inspired and motivated to be the best that I can be. What do you choose?
Erin and I will be joining the 30 Day challenge and hope that this will encourage others to participate. Feel free to follow along on the Source blog as two students discuss their process and discoveries each week.
Please check out our reduced holiday schedule for 4th of July and have a safe holiday! Enjoy one of the best seasons in the Northwest and take your yoga practice with you outside sometime this summer. You can get creative and practice on your deck or yard, the park, a hike through the mountains ending with yoga, or trying something new like paddleboard yoga. Whatever you choose, make sure to practice outside: breathe the fresh air, see the sky, touch the earth, and remember to slow down and enjoy all the season has to offer!
With love and compassion,
Melissa
