A couple of Friday nights ago, carrying our yoga mats, my husband Ron and I entered our yoga studio for our regular gentle all-levels restorative candlelight class.
As we made our way to our preferred spot at the back, we passed by Ben, who was rolling his mat up and getting ready to leave. Ben, who used to attend the Friday night class with us, but hadn’t been in a few months, glanced up, his face displaying disapproval. In an abrupt tone, he asked, ‘When are the two of you finally going to step it up to a real class? I mean, how long do you want to be just beginners?’ I offered a wry ‘Ha’ and walked on.
While on my mat, waiting for class to start, I felt a deep sadness for Ben and his perspective. Instead of experiencing the warm love around Ron and me and realizing that we were exactly where we wanted to be, Ben’s ego only allowed him to consider that his ‘more advanced’ class surpassed ours in meaning and worthiness. What a hardened way to experience the world.
In a chest-opening yoga pose, my sadness transformed into inner pride. Our encounter with Ben reminded me of the limiting beliefs and ego I used to carry. There was a time when I resembled Ben, passing judgment on others (and myself) for not climbing the corporate ladder fast enough, for not ticking off more tasks on the to-do list, or for not displaying enough ambition toward goals.
How times have indeed changed…
How I have changed…
And this realization gave me and still gives me immense peace.
Today, I proudly align myself with what truly serves me. I still pursue ambitious dreams that resonate with my soul, constantly evolving and striving to excel in endeavors that excite me. However, I also find immense joy in simply existing without perpetually striving to be the ultimate best. I hold dear the smaller, simpler aspects of my life, considering them sacred.
In fact, I occasionally strive not to change or get better at the things I cherish, such as enjoying the familiar flow of a beginner’s yoga class.
It’s my wish that you always remember that we are Human BEings, not human DOings. Relaxing. Repetition. The familiar. They give us the comfort and peace that is our birthright; don’t let anyone make you feel small for claiming and enjoying what is yours.
PS – Here’s an affirmation to use when your ego says, More, more, more: ‘I recognize true growth isn’t solely about reaching greater heights and that it’s also about deepening my understanding, compassion and inner peace.’
PPS – Do you want to explore finding peace in the smaller familiar moments more? If so, grab your pen and journal. Recall a recent experience where you found joy and tranquility in a simple, everyday moment. It could be a mundane activity like washing the dishes, a familiar place, or a routine you cherish. Describe the sensations, emotions, and thoughts you experienced during this moment. How does embracing these small moments of joy contribute to your overall well-being and contentment? How can you bring more of these sacred moments into your life?
