Hi! Welcome in! It’s so nice to see you again, how are you?
I can’t wait to hear all about your life! First take your shoes off at the front door and get cozy, make yourself at home.
Do you want any tea? Green, peppermint, or ginger? With honey?
Oh and In case no body told you today, this week, this year or…. ever
You deserve to take up space.
You deserve to be heard, seen and acknowledged.
You are wanted and you are worthy.
I told Tucker once “I know I’ll feel at home once I can leave my shoes near the front door”
Some people already have had that privilege their whole life, but for the ones who understand, I’m talking to you.
And it’s a rule in my yoga studio, to take your shoes off at the front door.
(If you guys are tired of hearing about my journey as a Yoga teacher, here is more melatonin)
When I began teaching, back in June, my nerves would eat me alive before each class. I’d get there an hour early to talk myself down with ease, using that time as a ritual. Taking the time to set up my mat, get together my towels, water, notes, everything. Essential oil potions would then be sprayed with each and every footstep. I’d begin at the entrance door, go through the whole lobby, each bathroom and in every corner of the heated studio, ending over my own mat in the front and center of the room. Every spray complete with an aloud affirmation:
“I am worthy”
“I have the knowledge to be here”
“I am a yoga instructor”
“I can do this”
“Only good, supportive energy enters through these doors”
And my favorite
“I am wanted”
But, over time as my confidence grew (and my root chakra settled), my need for the ritual lessened. I no longer had to audibly affirm myself of worthiness, and I no longer used my mat. I simply walk in with a smile on my face and take the room by control.
I realized I used my mat as a pacifier. It was a way to feel safe during class, to know I had a place for those moments where I didn’t know where to go, or what to do. I’d stand on my mat, and that was my little safe spot. On days when I questioned whether or not I should use it, I’d affirm to myself “I deserve to take up space”
Now that I know I deserve to be there. I know I deserve to take up space. I know I deserve to be heard. I don’t need to trick my mind into that by having something physical to show. I already am taking up space with my voice, my words, my presence and my gratitude.
Taking myself out of my comfort zone has done wonders for my self worth and image.
And sometimes, that’s all it takes. But sometimes, you need a little reminder.
It’s taken me a long time to learn, and I know that journey is still not over yet.
But I know I’m probably not alone.
So I’m here to tell you that you’re worthy. You’re wanted. And you deserve to be heard.
Take up space. Be as big and as loud as you want to be. Be your full self and don’t be ashamed. Go after the things you want without fear. Don’t let others get in your head and don’t get in the way of your own success.
Keep your chin high, smile bright, and shoes off.
You do belong here, there, wherever you are, or wherever you wish to be.
And you do deserve to find your home.
Home to me is where you can keep your shoes at the front door.
And yours are always welcome at mine
<33333
P.s. I like your socks
Reading this criss-crossed with my boring black socks. Should've worn my fuzzy festive ones before I settled down and read! What a refreshing and affirming post Amy. Sending you light and love.