An Ode to My Students: Lessons in Self-Compassion
Hi everyone! Before we start today, I want to share something that’s been on my mind, especially after last week’s class. When I had my stroke, one of my first thoughts was, "Well, this isn’t going to be good for business." I already felt like a fraud teaching yoga at times (a whole other story!) and then, to add to it, I had a stroke! That only amplified the feeling. I’ve always joked that I’m great at giving advice but not so great at taking it myself … well, until now! (I actually do give good advice!)
Last week, I left class feeling upset because I couldn’t quite find my flow. I went home and asked my husband, "What is wrong with me?" He gently reminded me, "You had a stroke." That brought me back to reality, and I realized—every one of us has days when things don’t go as planned. And that’s okay. BUT - I refuse to be defined by my stroke or my setbacks. It’s a reminder that, ultimately, I’m human, and that’s enough. #perfectlyimperfect.
Reflecting on it, I recognized that, like many of you, I can be my own worst critic (you know, when you look over at your neighbor or Mj, who seems to be effortlessly perfect—lol). We often judge ourselves too harshly, both on and off the mat. But yoga is about kindness and self-compassion, even when things don’t go as expected.
So here’s what I’ve learned—I’m learning to take my own advice. Since my stroke, self-compassion has been essential in my life. Yoga isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing kindness to yourself, no matter where you are that day. And really, how often have I said that you’re winning simply—or not so simply—by showing up? Because no two days are ever the same. And really, it’s not that serious.
So, I’m recommitting to you, to myself, and to our SaturYAY mornings. I’ll keep showing up, and I hope you will, too! Some days, we’ll find our flow, and others, we may struggle. And that’s okay—yoga meets us exactly where we are, and that’s more than enough.
As we head into the week, how can you take this self-compassion off the mat? For me, I am spending the rest of this fall day in bed with my little love as we are both exhausted. Now it’s your turn? And GO!
