A Beginning (Newsletter January 2022)

Well. Here we are. 2022.

As many of you know, for the bulk of 2021, I was walking the path of cancer diagnosis, chemotherapy, and endless doctor appointments. The challenges of this journey were compounded by my daughter leaving for college and the final closing of our Breathe Yoga and Wellness studios in October. 

Though I have transitioned from active treatment into cancer survivorship, I’m still navigating challenges in my physical body. I’ve also been swimming through some mental fog (otherwise known as “chemo brain”) that creates slower processing and reflecting times. My natural impulse is to move faster than both my body and mind are allowing right now while I strive to regain my previous state of multi-layered, multi-dimensional thinking and movement.
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And then I am reminded to practice what I teach: gentleness and slow, restorative movement to heal the body and nervous system. To help myself remember this intention, I’ve chosen the word Begin to anchor my year. So as I wait for whatever might be rising next, I’m returning to Beginner’s Mind in my yoga practice, my teaching, my writing, and my way of being in the world.​
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“The times are urgent; let us slow down.” 
-Bayo Akomolafe​
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I know so many around me are currently going through their own losses, illnesses, or challenges. And many are also moving with deep feelings of grief, confusion, and the urge for recalibration. I believe one of the best things we can do in these collective and personal moments of chaos and uncertainty is to continue to show up for each other. I was reminded of the simple power of showing up last year when friends arrived with meals, groceries, house cleaning services, money, and so much love and support. Many of you also bolstered me on my darkest and most difficult days. 

I am forever grateful for the support I received (and continue to receive) which has given me the fortitude to arrive at this place of a new beginning. It has helped me relax into deep a remembrance that our bodies know: community is vital when we are faced with experiences that are simply too much to bear alone. 

And though our community has shapeshifted during these times (i.e., meeting online and/or without the comfort of a familiar and beloved studio), we can still find ways to create presence and hold space for one another. We can allow a new form to take shape. One that serves the whole.

I hope you will join me in community in 2022 and beyond. 
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Do you have a word or anchoring intention for 2022?
I’d love to hold space for it.
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