When I was in the recovery center last June, we were encouraged to think about future goals. As folks with severe mental illnesses, we had lost careers, families, friends, and communities. We had let self-care, hobbies, and goals fall to the wayside. But while I was in there, I reconnected with my crucial mindfulness practices, and I was determined to take steps towards helping others like me—men, folks with bigger bodies, the mentally I’ll, rural people-find an entry into these restorative self-care practices.
I’ve been wanting to get my yoga and meditation teacher certifications for a few years, but I was so plagued with doubt and fear, even after declaring my ambition at the recovery center. Would my mental illness ruin yet another opportunity? Am I too fat to be a yoga teacher? Am I not good enough? I realized those questions were exactly why I needed to do the program.
After years of solely focusing on managing my illness, I needed a new challenge to prove to myself I’m capable of tackling big projects again. My weight and other limitations are a main reasons of why I want to teach yoga—to be an accessible entry point for folks with non-stereotypical yoga bodies. I’ve been blessed with mindfulness teachers who are welcoming to me and understanding of my struggles. I want to be that support for others.
A couple weeks ago, I started a self-paced online yoga and meditation teacher training program. The self-paced part is perfect for me, as I am not beholden to a schedule my ups and downs might not be able to keep. I’m so grateful for this opportunity to push myself, as Richard Rohr says in the purpose of life, “to humbly and proudly return what’s been given.”
I love this for you!