yoga etc. #13 (the process of her becoming)

yoga etc. #13

May every stage of the butterfly’s growth teach you something. May the process of her becoming remind you: not every stage of growth will render a sense of awe or a reaction from others, but every stage is still essential.

- Morgan Harper Nichols

Morgan Harper Nichols is one of my favorite artists/poets. She creates ethereal designs layered under even more beautiful words and shares encouraging and inspirational thoughts. Most days, her words find their way to me as a glittery silver lining sitting at the edge of a heavy cloud. This quote above, I love, of course, not only for its reference to my spirit animal.

Not every stage of growth will render a sense of awe or a reaction from others. As I’m working on this big goal of mine—to create something new that combines my passions of yoga, community, and writing—I’ve found that there are so many little stages of growth, of learning, of exploration, that might seem like nothing to the naked eye but are intrinsic parts of the process. Things like updating my newsletter or sharing my new classes with a friend of a friend. Having a new student join class. Talking about things that inspire me with a friend and exploring what we can create together. Previewing a new class and getting feedback on it. Offering a more streamlined and professional booking process for my classes.

Many of these things are small-they don’t necessarily elicit a banner announcement. But they’re milestones that I’m proud of and inspired by. These little stages-the moments of growth in between-are how we get to where we want to go. Our journey isn’t made up of moments like when the butterfly first flies out of its cocoon. It looks more like the growth of the cocoon. From the outside, it doesn’t look like much, but inside is where all the magic is happening. ✨

As I mentioned last week, I now have a new way for us to practice together. Things will start to look a bit different (but not much, don’t worry!) You’ll need to book into my classes beforehand here, and you’ll get automated email confirmations and a reminder when class is about to start. You can also add each class to your calendar. And soon, you’ll be able to access pre-recorded video classes there was well. There are loads of pricing options. All classes are pay what you can, or you can sign up for a weekly and monthly pass.

I also shared last week that I’ve designed a couple of new class types for beginners and yin lovers. Have a look below and book in if there’s one you’re drawn to. I hope to see you soon. Have a great week. ✨

Other musings

1. If you don’t practice joy, you will not survive this shit
2. Things that make me happy: 73 Qs with David Rose
3. Finally, a smiling mask-wearing emoji
4. Tomato za’atar soup with halloumi croutons ( halloumi croutons!!)
5. A dress like Morgan Harper Nichols’ poems
6. On the #FreeBritney movement
7. Ways to remember you’re a person! with a body!
8. On repeat: space ghost coast to coast (stripped)

Weekly writing prompt

• Think about yourself a year ago. What is your biggest accomplishment? What are the little stages of growth that got you there? (15 minutes)

This is the yoga etc., a weekly newsletter exploring mindful movement and mindful personal development in a busy world, written by me, Laura B. Childs, writer, teacher, and friend. You can subscribe to yoga etc. here.

Originally published at https://www.laurabchilds.com on October 12, 2021.