Do Again!

Everyone was on their heads except me.  

“I can’t do it. It’s my neck…arthritis from a car accident years ago.” I told Anne Marie, my yoga teacher, using that excuse to cover my conviction that I could never do one. “That’s ok.” she gently responded. Just get in the starting position. That’s all you need to do”  

I stayed in that starting position for a few weeks. Then one day, these words happened: “I want to do a headstand.”  Why was my mouth betraying my fears? Too late… once those words hit the air, it was go-time.

Anne Marie skillfully guided me and in a flash, I was upside down. Tears streamed down my temples, wetting my hair. How the hell? Anne Marie was beaming. 

My heart was bursting with pride and gratitude. Such an inspiring, freeing, whole body sensation that lasted all day. I highly recommend it. 

Now that I found the courage to defy my fears and doubt about being upside down, I’m ready to challenge a few other limiting beliefs. I’m using this experience to venture out of my comfort zone into new opportunities. Why not? 

Of course I had to turn this experience into a lesson for my students! Last time we met, they got a do-over. Today, they get a do-again. 

Here it is:

(Say slowly) 

“Let’s relax into our chairs. Feel your feet in your shoes, relax your legs, your stomach, your chest. Let your arms go. Relax your shoulders, neck, jaw, your eyes, and your brain. Let’s take a few deep breaths. 

Think about a time in the past when you behaved in a way you’re really proud of. For example, you took the time to help someone even though you wanted to do something else. That led to the other person being grateful to you. Or maybe someone did something you didn’t like, but you didn’t lose your temper and get angry because you remembered to do one of the breathing techniques we learned. Or perhaps, like me, you went beyond your fear and did something you thought you could never do.

Close your eyes. Pick one thing that happened that you’re proud of. We are going to visualize what happened and remember how great it felt! If you can’t think of anything, that’s ok. Just relax.

Imagine that you are back in time. Start seeing in your mind’s eye the situation. Stop right at the place where you did something different that changed things for better. Let the sounds and sights and feelings sink in. 

When you’re ready, open your eyes. We’d love to hear from anyone who wishes to share.

1. What thing (event/situation) did you pick and why?

2. What did you say and/or do that you are proud of? 

3. Did you do this again in another situation?

4. How can this exercise help you be proud of yourself in the future?

If you like these exercises, there are many more to be discovered in my book, SocialEyes Together. Click here to order https://www.social-eyes.org/. 

Wishing you breakthrough moments.

Love,

Robin