As a motivational speaker on health and wellness I talk about balance and flexibility as important components of physical fitness. But what I was reminded of this morning is that they are equally important to our mental and spiritual health. Here’s what happened.
3 substitute teachers entered a classroom and I was one of them. I was a little more than slightly peeved to find another instructor introducing himself to “my” class. You see, two weeks prior I had responded to an exercise teacher’s email looking for a sub for her Flexibility and Balance class at 7 in the morning. The group fitness coordinator, not the teacher, replied to my email with a “thank you for subbing” response.
I was very excited to teach this format so I researched a little, wrote choreography, chose groovy music, awoke in the middle of the night and mulled over the moves in my sleepy head, and I woke up REALLY early to rewrite and practice. I was all set to teach when the three of us collided on the exercise mat! I wasn’t really the first one there so I backed off and instantly decided to be a student. Hey, I figured I was up and dressed and here and the other teacher took his place in class – I wan’t about to stomp off!
As I was setting up I was fully aware of the grouchy voice inside my head trying to find all the negatives of the situation: miscommunication, time wasted prepping, his teaching style, etc. I am happy to report that I shut that voice up in a matter of seconds and let my positive thoughts flow in: I LOVE taking other teachers’ classes, he explained that move well, my form looks strong and balanced in the mirror, until I relaxed into the new reality and thoroughly enjoyed my hour spent.
What may first seem like a big trouble spot in one’s day often turns out to be the best learning experience: be flexible, go with the flow, find a balance and meet two really talented and friendly fellow instructors in the process. Nice……
From your motivational speaker Polly Pitchford who is standing in Tree Pose while typing this…really!
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Wow – you really do practice what you preach! I’m not sure I would have been so flexible and patient. I guess I’m the one that needs the class now!
Polly, don’t you just love that we always get to practice our philosophies?! I admire your ability to shift your thinking and enjoy the class. Perhaps even grab a takeaway. That’s a true motivational speaker!
Wow, now THAT’S a motivational speaker who walks her talk!!! I love how you consciously (that’s the operative word, after all, took that opportunity to practice a discipline that could positively serve you. Thank you for the example of how to do that!!!