Firstly, please know I have been thinking of you all. I started the school year working two days a week as the Mindfulness Coordinator in the school here, in Abu Dhabi where Richard is working, too. A new role I had advocated for, and most definitely a new role within education. As of November 1st, I also took on a full time teaching position in a grade four classroom. It’s been all-go since then!

I have been giving myself plenty of permission; going easy on myself as a hard-wired perfectionist and  worry-wart, having naps and going to bed alongside my toddler; knowing all will settle into a more coherent routine and rhythm given time and perseverance. And, it is.

I’ve been reflecting on what my practice has primarily consisted of over the last six weeks in an effort to share that with you in the hopes of it being of some benefit. In addition to the ebb and flow of patience, and permission, it has been the constant remembrance that: the uncertainty, doubt, lack of knowing, lack of confidence, tiredness, anxiety, and overwhelm, are EXACTLY WHAT I NEED to continue to practice being present, open, and wakeful. This alignment within my body, heart, and mind has allowed me to also feel contentment, connection, and purposefulness.

In that recognition, knowingness, or moment of mindfulness; there’s a softening. Within that softening lies conscious choice. In that, there is everything.

Oh, and when windows of opportunity for formal practice appear, it has been Yin to both settle my mind and connect to my body. The following sequence has been helpful, may you find it so, too.

Yours,

Elissa xx

Yin Practice for Settlement and Nourishment:

Saddle (5-10 minutes) *sphinx or seal as alternates

Childs Pose (2 minutes)

Half Dragonfly left (5 minutes)

Half Dragonfly right (5 minutes)

Full Dragonfly (5 minutes)

Sit and feel. Let awareness flood your entire body. Smile.