Finding Flexibility : A Journey of Growth and Grace.
Flexibility isn’t just about pushing boundaries; it’s about honoring them, leaning in, and finding grace in each movement. This belief shaped my life , my dance, and the way I approach every stretch and breath. Flexibility isn’t just about stretching; it’s a mindset, a way of approaching everything life offers- whether adversity, challenge, fear, opportunity, or blessing. For me, flexibility is about honoring my limits, leaning inland finding grace in each moment. This philosophy has guided me through life, shaped my dance. And it all began on stage.
At just three years old, I stepped onto the vast , iconic stage of Texas Hall. Louis Armstrong himself had been the first to perform there, setting the stage for countless icons who would follow. I was so small beneath those towering curtains, surrounded by dancers much older, yet I felt the honor and thrill of performing on that historic stage. From that young age until I was ten, that stage lifted me, sharing my spirit and teaching me to move through life with grace and resilience.
Since then, I’ve danced and performed on many stages, and over time, the world itself has become my grandest stage. Through movement and stretching, Ive learned to approach my own limits with care, stretching isn’t just to the edge without pushing too far. This awareness isn’t limited to movement; it’s a way I approach everything life brings my way.
Leaning Into Flexibility with Awareness
Now, in each movement or stretch, I carry that early sense of wonder and respect, tuning into my edges with the same mindfulness I bring to all of life’s challenges. When I face something simple or abundant, I find the same principles apply: breathe into the stretch, respect my limits, and honor the process.
Here’s how I cultivate flexibility both on the mat and the stage of life:
Finding My Edge, Not Forcing It: I lean into my limits without compromise, knowing that in both movement and life, strength and resilience come from respecting our boundaries.
Breathing Through Each Stretch: Breath grounds me, helping me to release tension and stay centered. In life, as in yoga, it’s my breath that keeps me present and steady.
Maintaining Grace and Alignment: Staying true to my alignment isn’t just physical; it’s an approach to challenges and opportunities. When I focus on my foundation, I can stretch further without losing balance.
Flexibility as a Life Practice
Flexibility is a gift that has revealed itself through both adversity and blessing. It’s more the a practice on the mat- it’s a way of being that keeps me open and adaptable in the face of life’s unexpected turns. flexibility is resilience; it’s meeting each experience with grace honoring my boundaries while remaining fluid. In every breath and movement, I recall that little girl who felt infinite on stage, learning early on that presence and inner stregth are the keys to true freedom.
Embrace Flexibility in Every Aspect of Life
If you’re on a journey of growth, here’s what flexibility has taught:
Honor Your Limits and Boundaries:
Flexibility is about leaning in, not forcing through. meet each challenge with respect for where you are.
Practice Patience and Self-Kindness:
Growth and Resilience take time. Allow yourself grace and patience to nurture flexibility in your body and your life.
