Going Out on a Limb

There was no way that I could do the sit up variation. The traction of the strap was too much for my well-worn knee. I lay on the Reformer frustrated, then angry. Huh. This is how my yoga students feel when I forget to give them choices. I simmered in my own anger, observing my perfectionism and remarkable talent for swearing.

I started Pilates for two reasons: to increase my upper body strength and to remember what it’s like to be a beginner. TA DA! Reason #2 accomplished! Once I calmed down, I reflected on the importance of giving my students choices. True, I could have come up with my own variation, but my mind was too caught up in frustration to be creative.

Trying new things can be fun. There are many things about Pilates that I really enjoy. I like the way the moves build. I appreciate the control and the precision. The variety of equipment keeps the classes fresh and creative. Yet, I didn’t know that the challenges would teach me the most. Difficulties contain the biggest lessons. When things come easily, I am not working my edge. Out on the edge, I observe the rougher elements of my character and I can decide how to respond. I can choose a new response to frustration at any moment.

Abraham Maslow wrote, “With a tree, all the growth takes place at the growing tips. Humanity is exactly the same. All the growth takes place in the growing tip: among that one percent of the population. It's made up of pioneers, the beginners. That's where the action is.” So today, I encourage you to go out on a limb: Embrace the beautiful growth of a beginner. It will not be easy, but it will be worth it.