Transitions Are Opportunities

For many of us, September signifies a time of transition. We pack away the summer routine to begin a job, get children ready for a new school year, or change exercise habits. Many simply notice the subtle changes in the weather as fall slowly arrives. Extreme or abrupt changes can be challenging for people. Significant life transitions such as moving a distance, divorce, illness, or job change can shake the very foundation under us. How do you handle transitions in your life?

When I realize that change is a constant in my life and all around me, I am able to transition into a state of acceptance. Flowing with the direction of change, and not resisting against it, brings me into a calmer place, regardless of the circumstance. This acceptance requires a willingness to let go of controlling every aspect of my life, and this demands courage.

Where does courage originate? Transitions bring out courage in mankind. Great historic events have occurred when humans are forced to change. A determination emerges. Bravery or courage is the opposite virtue of worry. How many of us toil away our hours worrying about things that never occur? At one point in my life my worry was paralyzing. It was all due to fear. A disciplined yoga lifestyle and strong faith have fortified me and I now face risks, challenges, and new beginnings with resolution. Sure there are times that I stumble and fall into bad habits or negative thoughts begin to invade my mind space, but now I recognize it, breathe with it, and examine it as an opportunity to learn and change the course of my very thoughts. It is a disciplined practice to grow the virtue of courage in the midst of our changing world, emotions, or physical body.

If you're facing a transition in life, take a few minutes to slow down and just be with the change occurring. You can befriend it. Then be curious while you learn about your reaction to the events changing around you. Do yo have a visceral response? Can you notice your thoughts? Next, come to a stillness and just breathe with the situation. It will help to ground your physical body on the floor for support (either reclined, seated, belly down or on back) . Feel connected to the earth, rooted in and safe. You might begin feel the seed of courage deep within you starting to grow, but give yourself at least 10 minutes each day. Grit and determination are buried within and you have the power to reach for them through your next transition. I wish you strength and courage!

Namaste, Teresa

“Change is not only inevitable, but always happening. When you truly embrace this concept of change being constant, the only thing left to do is grow, detach, venture inwards, touch the spirit and find your source — the one responsible for keeping you grounded through the ever-changing seasons of life.” — Julie Weiland