The Perfect Body
One of my ongoing New Years resolution has been to lose weight...(this goal feels like I have had for 38 years). I did quite a bit of soul searching this past year. I noticed that I used social media as a tool of comparison to myself. I would follow folks on instagram that have these strong beautiful bodies, every muscle chiseled, constantly thinking- WOW! now that's the perfect body! I particularly enjoyed viewing people performing yoga poses thinking how strong they were.... unconsciously thinking that these folks must be the happiest people ever! I convinced myself that their perfect body must be equivalent to a blissful happy state of mind.
During my soul (and internet) searching, I came across an article talking about the concept of the "perfect body". The author described how the concept of a perfect body should be "the best version of you". This concept resonated with me, driving my goals this year in a different direction. I found myself wondering what is the best version of myself? I used this concept to shape my goals for this year, using my strengths as the tool to push me forward, challenging myself to enhance what I already found was a strength. I accepted that I was not perfect but allowed my flaws to be part of who I was and part of what defines me in this world.
Being a yoga teacher and studio owner, my students have inspired me so much this past year. I have people come to me commenting about how their bodies feel stronger, less achy, decreased pain, excited to touch their toes for the first time ever. This transition in the body is strong, beautiful and very powerful. One part of a perfect version of myself is helping others experience this type of transformation, leading to a healthier and happier version of themselves. Chronic pain can take a toll on your physical an emotional health.
I would like to say I no longer review these amazingly chiseled people on instagram or facebook but that would be a total lie. I have found comfort in who I am, what I am, and where I am in life and that is the perfect body for me today. As you look towards this new year, make sure you take pride in yourself and all of the wondering things about you instead of always trying to change what you don't like, that might just change who you are all together. Be proud of who you are!
"Yoga is the fountain of youth. You're only as young as your spine is flexible." - Bob Harper
Picture taken by Exit 57 studios- Karen Hudson