Be Still
It has been exactly one month since Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) graduation (yay, for a Kula reunion tonight!). Sunday, I officially led my first two classes as a Yoga Teacher. In preparation, I was overcome with so many emotions – happiness, excitement, anxiousness, and…FEAR. Fear was largely one of them. When it came time, nerves had me sweating, A LOT (trust me, it had nothing to do with the 90 degree room temperature).
But then, I paused to breathe. I remembered…in the face of fear, magic happens.
Teaching was the ultimate goal of my YTT journey. Through my own practice of yoga, I discover freedom, peace, and inspiration on the mat. I want to share my experience and empower others to make similar connections.
When nerves arise, remember why you are doing something. Driven by intention, you will find strength to face your fear and make it happen.
After practice teaching a class to Brad, he looked at me and said, “You are meant to do this.” I recalled one of the universal truths of YTT. In every moment, we are exactly where we are supposed to be.
Embrace every fearful experience because you belong there. On the other side of intimidation is transformation.
"Why not go out on a limb? That’s where the fruit is."
-Mark Twain
There is a saying our team of teachers use – “it’s called yoga practice not yoga perfect.” It came to mind as I thought about teaching versus practicing yoga. It works both ways. With each class, I will develop as a teacher, just as I continue to do as a student.
In challenges – whether feared or not, strive for learning, not perfecting. As you continue to learn, you grow.
Sometimes on a yoga mat, our body is resistant. The pose can be scary; self-doubt can be crippling. Much like in everyday life, fear builds a wall and causes us to be protective.
The solution is to be present. Taking a moment to breathe, and be still, cultivates compassion. Compassion leads to stillness in the mind, body, and soul.
With stillness, look confidently into the face of fear…and magically move forward.
