You are exactly where you need to be.

Meet yourself where you are. Without judgment or expectation. Don't force the process, or try to make it something it's not. You are exactly where you need to be, even if it's not where you think you want or ought to be. Let go of "should" and "if only" and "I can't" -- these thoughts don't serve you. Create space to receive what is, exactly as it is, here and now.

This isn't my strongest or most creative flow. I am physically unable to create and hold the same fancy shapes I once could. My body is different. My strength and flexibility have changed. I have struggled with "I can't do that anymore" for several months. It's a blow to the ego. It's humbling. It's frustrating. It's real. It's my journey. It's exactly where I need to be. This practice is my greatest teacher, and the most accurate reflection of who I am, what I am capable of, and where to focus my energy.

Sometimes transformation happens when and where you least expect it. Sometimes (a lot of the time?) it's not the transformation you want; but more than likely, it's the transformation you need. Change doesn't always look like "progress" or "success." It doesn't always feel pleasant or exciting. AND it's still necessary for personal growth and a deeper understanding of Self. Change, shift, transformation -- call it whatever you want -- just be aware of it, learn from it, and embrace it as part of your unique, beautiful, powerful journey, even if it's not the transformation you were hoping for. This work isn't always pretty, but it's always truthful.

I am enough. And so are you. Fancy poses and complex transitions aren't the most important part of this work; it's everything you discover about yourself in between. The shapes don't define you, they don't make you "good at yoga;" they are tools for accessing the parts of you that you may have never known existed. Meet yourself where you are, trust yourself, and trust the process. Even if you don't like it. Even if it's not where you want to be. Especially if it's uncomfortable or challenging or messy. You're closer to a breakthrough than you think; probably one you didn't ever see coming. I say this because I've been there. I am there. You've got this. We've got this. Just breathe.

xo,

Katie Cousins

e-RYT Certified Yoga Instructor

Pittsboro, NC

FireforgedYoga.com