I have been told by more than two dozen individuals - many of them strangers, that I have a soothing voice. I taught yoga poolside last Sunday and one of my students wasted no time finding me after Namaste to tell me: "I love the sound of your voice, it's so soothing."
Leaning into that, I have determined that I would lead each class with my strength...my voice. With each class, we begin in Sukhasana (seated pose of ease), breathing deeply and then normally. Our eyes are closed and then I guide students through our poetic intention for the class. I have included below a sneak peek at this Sunday's intention-setting poem that I originated. The poem inspires several of our poses as well as our opening mudra, Padma Mudra (seen in the photo here).
I have always believed that sharing both your strengths and adversities can help others. With 25 years in nonprofit fundraising, I've often woven my hardships into storytelling to be relatable. These stories are true, but they come with an underlying sadness. I am emotionally tied to every nonprofit mission I serve, but this connection is rooted in sorrow, reopening old wounds for the benefit of others. In these nonprofit settings, no one comments on my voice, just my storytelling capability. Little does anyone know the toll it takes on me to show up for their missions they way that I do.
Yoga offers a different perspective. While my hardships don't disappear, it's my resilience, love, and light that take the lead. I crave this feeling, which is one of the many reasons I teach yoga. When I close each class with 'the light in me honors the beautiful and radiant light in you' - I mean it with every fiber in my body. ❤️🧘🏼♀️
In every storm, may we learn to bend and rise again.
With each challenge faced, may we see it as a chance to grow.
Through life’s murky waters, may clarity be found.
In stillness, may we find strength to just be.
May our shining spirit be unaffected by the muckiness of life.
May our life’s journey be like that of a lotus…
resilient and beautiful, facing every adversity with grace.
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