My biggest struggle in life has always been slowing down. I think I was born with my shifter stuck in high gear. I’ve made progress in that arena, especially as I have welcomed yoga and meditation into my life. I still have a ways to go, and I am going to start by using these ten tips on how to slow down.
I was engaged in my usual Sunday cook-a-thon last week when I faced a small dilema. I wanted the smoked paprika (fancy, I know) for the recipe, but it was out of reach. I keep this particular item on the top shelf of the spice cabinet due to its infrequent use. Normally, I simply climb up on the counter below to reach the items on the top shelf. At this particular time; however, my very full and very hot slow cooker was occupying the exact counter real estate where I would need to place my knees.
At first, I became frustrated. I felt like the recipe wouldn’t be perfect without the addition of the smoked paprika. Then, I glanced up, spying the perfectly normal and perfectly accessible paprika right in front of me. It would do just fine.
Some days and some situations are not about trying to achieve perfection. When you’re in a rough patch, trying to maintain a high standard can be daunting and add unneeded stress. It is okay to redefine your goals and adjust accordingly. Sometimes, it’s all about what you can reach.
And, for the record, no I did not think about pulling a chair over to reach the paprika. There is probably a lesson in that too…
Anxiety has a way of making us think that every uncomfortable situation is the equivalence of a plane crash, but statistically speaking, it’s probably just turbulence.
Did you know they make butt tassels? As in tassels sewn to the back of a pair of pants? The instructor’s rear had flying strings; I’m not sure if they were supposed to mesmerize or instruct. Regardless, I bet they are uncomfortable on the ride home. Just one of the ways I ways enlightened in my first Zumba class…
I immediately met a wonderful trio of women who instantly made me feel comfortable. They all had wonderful attitudes and were ready to laugh. And laugh we did. The class was so full, that it was impossible to see the instructor, so it was like a game of telephone, the moves becoming more mutilated by the time they made it to the back of the room (where I, as a Zumba virgin, was of course hanging out). Regardless of the missed instructions, I was glad to see that my feet still remembered something from the dance classes I took 25 years ago.
I also learned just how limited my hip movement is; much of my booty shaking looked more like booty shifting. Luckily, one of my new acquaintances was able to give me some pointers on how to loosen the hips a bit. We negotiated a tradeoff; she’ll help me with my booty shaking, and I’ll help her get some definition in her back. A great tradeoff, if you ask me.
Overall, it was a fun experience. It felt like being in a big sleepover, dancing around in our pajamas. Except, of course, for the viewers from the adjacent weight room (there IS a lot of booty shaking). I plan on trying it again, especially when I need a mood booster at the end of the day. I don’t feel exhausted, and I feel better from the camaraderie and laughter. I am a Zumba virgin no more…
Lessons From the End of a Marriage 