Finding Opportunity in the Struggle
Over the years I've become a "find the opportunity in the struggle" type of person and here's why: Almost all of my greatest moments of change have come directly AFTER a moment where I've thought, "I just can't anymore". I've also seen this time and time again with my students. They come to me and say, "I'm so tired today, Greta. I almost didn't come." Then I give them permission to be exactly where they are and to let their bodies lead their practice and - lo and behold! - the aha moments start coming!
The reason for this is that when you try to motivate yourself with your mind alone, you inevitably get in your own way by overthinking and you lack the necessary energy needed to create long-lasting change. When you give your attention to your body instead, your body gives back to you tenfold. Suddenly you're able to unlock your deeply held inner reserves of stockpile energy. Your body is the secret weapon you needed all along.
The best way to cultivate and regenerate this stockpile energy is to have a consistent practice where you commit to spending quality time with your body and pledge to attend to its tightnesses and weaknesses without any judgment on the process. Now, as much as the term "weekend warrior" makes me gag a little, I recognize that there is a huge benefit to dedicating your weekends to reconnecting to your body, mind and spirit.
To get the most out of your secret weapon you must ideally devote a short and impassioned amount of time to implement your practice properly. This establishes your practice as a practical habit that is easily accessible. I can't tell you how many times I've heard someone say, "I wish the world could just stop for a few months so I could jumpstart my practice and really give it the time and focus it deserves." Weeeeelllllllll, it seems to me that if EVER there was a time to give yourself the chance to establish a practical and meaningful practice, the time is NOW.
Take this post as a sign that you’re ready to establish your practice.
