Pilates and Osteoporosis

Is it safe for me to do Pilates with Osteoporosis?

What is Osteoporosis?

I have recently had a member of our online Pilates community and a few people at my studio if they could do Pilates with osteoporosis.

Of course, it is best for anyone who has any medical issue to check with their doctor before beginning any exercise program.  However, it is generally safe to Pilates when you have osteoporosis, AS LONG AS you avoid and/or modify certain exercises.

People who have osteoporosis have weakened bone density.  This means that, in general, these people have more fragile bones and are more susceptible to fractures.

Globally, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men older than 50 will suffer from an osteoporotic fracture!  (Smith & Boser, 2013).  Obviously, this means that osteoporosis is very common.

Several studies, including one published by the Mayo Clinic in 1984, found that people with osteoporosis should avoid exercises that involve spinal flexion.  (Spinal flexion is defined as forward bending.)  It found that flexing the spine can cause micro fractures in the spine.  In turn, these micro fractures can cause kyphosis of the spine (also known as Dowager’s hump or the Quasimodo hump), a decrease in height, and painful fractures in the dorsal and lumbar spines.

 

What Exercises Should I Avoid?

In Pilates, many exercises involve flexing part of the spine. Therefore, people with osteoporosis should avoid them.   Some of these exercises include classic exercises that include scoops, spine stretch, etc.  (There are some instances where studies have shown that mild spinal flexion is not harmful.  To know your specific situation, you should check with your doctor.)

Many Pilates exercises are typically done with a cervical nod, a type of spinal flexion.  However, people with osteoporosis can do these poses without the cervical nod.  That is, people with osteoporosis can simply keep their head down when doing exercises such as the single leg stretch, double leg stretch, etc.

Additionally, Pilates exercises that involve rolling on your spine should also be avoided.   Therefore, anyone with osteoporosis should avoid exercises like rolling like a ball, open leg rocker, etc.

Furthermore, people with osteoporosis should generally avoid deep twisting exercises.   Therefore, people should modify or avoid exercises such as the saw, spine twists, etc.

 

What Exercises Can Someone with Osteoporosis do?

Even though they need to avoid exercises that involve spinal flexion and rolling, most people with osteoporosis can do many Pilates exercises.  (Again, it is always best to check with your doctor regarding your specific condition.)

In my latest video release, I do a 45 minute Pilates class especially made for anyone with osteoporosis.  When I was making it, I wondered if I would run out of exercises to to.   Instead, I couldn’t get enough in.  In fact, I could make several other videos for osteoporosis if there was an interest.

Avoiding excessive flexion at the cervical spine in Pilates is easy. Participants don’t have to keep their head lifted in the exercises.  Instead, they can modify the exercises by keeping their head down.  People can use this option for the single leg stretch, double leg stretch, frog, single leg circles, hundred, double leg drops, single straight leg stretch, etc.

 

The Pilates exercises that involve spinal extension are generally very beneficial for people with osteoporosis for several reasons.   Spinal extension helps strengthen the back muscles and helps promote normal spinal curves and good posture by strengthening the muscles that support the spine (Sinaki et al, 1996). In addition, there is evidence that strengthening the back extensors may decrease the long-term risk of vertebral fractures (Sinaki et al., 2002). Also, since kyphosis may also be linked to weak spinal extensor muscles (Mika , Unnithan, & Mika, 2005).

Some exercises that strengthen the spinal extensors are swimming, single leg kicks, double leg kicks, etc.

Pushups and many of the exercises in the arm series would also be beneficial and safe.

Strengthening the hips is also generally beneficial for people with osteoporosis because strengthening the muscles around the hip can help prevent potential hip fractures.  As a result, someone with osteoporosis can safely do most of the side lying series in Pilates.

 

What are the Benefits of Doing Pilates with Osteoporosis?

If you have osteoporosis, you can benefit from doing Pilates.   Just be sure to avoid the exercises that are not considered safe, or modify appropriately.  If you aren’t sure what to do, you could find a specialized class or purchase a specialized video like the one that I made.

Pilates helps you build strength, and being strong has many benefits.  For instance, as previously mentioned, strengthening your back can help you improve your posture and may help you to avoid or improve kyphosis.   Additionally, strengthening your hips can help you to avoid potential hip fractures.

Pilates also helps you to improve your balance, which can make you less susceptible to falling.

You can also improve your range of motion with Pilates, which can make you less likely to experience pulled muscles and/or muscles spasms.

Last, some research  into Pilates has shown that people who practice Pilates may experience an increase in bone mass density.

 

How Frequently Do You Have to Practice Pilates to See Body Changes?

Will I lose weight or lower my BMI with Pilates?

Joseph Pilates had a famous quote.  It said “In 10 session you will FEEL the difference, in 20 you will SEE the difference and in 30 you will HAVE A WHOLE NEW BODY.”

But was he right?

Will you feel a difference in 1o classes?   Will you see a difference in 20 classes?

Of course, there are many factors that influence the outcomes of a pilates practice.  But, overall, the answer is YES!

 

Less Than 30 Classes Do Not Often Show Significant Changes Body Changes

Research seems to show that Pilates was right.   Participants who didn’t practice 30 classes didn’t usually see significant body changes.

In 2006 Sekendiz et al found that participants who practiced three times a week, but only for 5 weeks, did not show any changes in BMI (body mass index).    Of course, these people only completed 15 classes.

Similarly, a study published in 2004 by Segal, Hein, and Basford studied 47 adult members of a community athletic club.  They took a one hour pilates class once a week.   They found that these members did not experience significant differences in weight at the end of their two month study.  As a result, they concluded that practicing pilates once a week for an hour, was not enough to experience significant results.

 

Studies Show Positive Body Changes as Participants Approach 30 Classes

Other research shows that Joseph Pilates may have been right.  If participants practice three times a week, they seem to experience results as they approach 30 classes.

In 2013, Kate Rogers and Ann Gibson published the results of their study that examined the effects of pilates in adult women who were new to pilates.   They found that taking three classes a week resulted in a decrease in body fat.   That is, after eight weeks of taking classes three times per week, or 24 classes total, participants in the study showed showed a decrease in body fat.

More studies seem to corroborate similar results.  For instance, a 2013 study by Fourie et. al  studied healthy and sedentary South African adult women over 60 years old.  They found when they practiced pilates three times a week for eight weeks, the women demonstrated a significant decrease in body fat.   As a result, they concluded that “an eight-week mat Pilates exercise programme may contradict or even reverse some of the most serious consequences of ageing associated with an increased fat mass and reduced lean body mass in elderly females.”

Likewise, Ali et al’s 2010 study of overweight student females who practiced Pilates three times per week for eight weeks found that the participants significantly decreased body fat and their waist size.

In summary, research shows that “it appears that over 900 minutes of total exposure and a frequency of at least 3x/week is needed to have an effect on body fat.”

 

Are There Exceptions to this Rule?

It seems that you MAY sometimes experience positive results even more quickly than eight weeks.  In 2006, Jago et al’s study showed that more frequent Pilates produces faster results.   When 11 year old girls practiced Pilates mat for 60 minutes, 5 times a week, they changed their body composition (lower BMI)  in as little as 4 week.

Of course, more research would need to be conducted to determine if the girls age had anything to do with the results.

 

How Do I get Started?

If you are local to a studio like Auburn Yoga and Pilates Center, you can attend our beginner Pilates class.   If you aren’t local, you can join my FREE 30 Day Pilates Challenge at doingpilatesathome.com.  Or, you can buy (or rent) some of my Pilates videos at doingpilatesathome.com

Will Pilates Help me Lose Weight?

Research-based answers

For my more than twenty years as a pilates instructor, I have proclaimed the importance of strong powerhouse muscles.    People with strong core muscles generally have better balance and stability. They are also better able to do regular physical activities.  Core strength can also help to prevent back pain.

So, for years, when potential participants came to Auburn Yoga & Pilates and asked about the benefits of Pilates, the first answer that I gave was that Pilates helps you to build your “powerhouse muscles.” That is, Pilates helps you to build stronger abdominals, backs, hips, and gluteals.

So, obviously, these documented benefits of increased core strength convinced people to sign up to for Pilates on the spot.   Right?

Well, not always…

Most prospective participants want to know if Pilates will help them to lose weight?

When they first started asking me about the benefits of Pilates, I knew that starting a Pilates practice would undoubtedly help participants tone.  Many of my regular participants reported that their waistbands had more room.  But my evidence was mostly anecdotal.  I didn’t know if they tone up, or if they actually lose weight.

Since I couldn’t answer with 100% confidence, I decided to see what the research said.  (In addition to owning a yoga and pilates studio, I am a full-time college professor.   By nature, professors base their answers on research.)

Research Findings

My research investigation showed that Pilates can positively impact weight loss under the right conditions.

That is, regular participation in a Pilates practice will likely cause positive changes in body composition.   These changes include include reduced percentage body fat percentage and increased lean body mass.   In one study, girls who began a regular Pilates practice lowered their BMI (body mass index).

A study of overweight women in Turkey, found that women who participated in a regular Pilates Mat practice for ten weeks had a significant difference in weight, BMI, body composition parameters, waist to hip ratios, waist circumference, fat percentage, lean body mass, and basal metabolic rates.

Of course, not everyone will experience the same results.

Somewhat unsurprisingly, evidence show that all participants don’t lose weight at the same rate.  Several studies show that participants with a healthy weight were slower to lose weight than overweight participants.   (This makes sense to me.  Participants at a healthy weight don’t have much or any excess weight to lose.)

Exact results will depend on the frequency and duration of the Pilates workout.  The intensity of the workout will also be a factor in the results.

The good news is that research showed that these positive changes in body composition can be achieved in as little as 30-45 minute workouts.  (I made the ab focused, core focused, and arm focused pilates workouts at doingpilatesathome.com about 25 minutes long because they align with the research.  They can be combined with one of more of the 5 minute Pilates Challenge Videos for the perfect Pilates workouts!)

Interested in learning more?   View my post about how often you should practice Pilates for optimal results.

 

 

Strategies to Help You Stick with Your Exercise Routine

8 Ways to Keep Your Intentions for Exercising

The Best Intentions

Have you ever set out with the best of intentions to start exercising regularly?  Maybe you even went as far as buying a gym membership, a piece of exercise equipment, or some new gym clothes.

startDid you start exercising regularly, with the best of intentions to continue exercising regularly, but still “fell off the wagon”?

If you answered yes, to either of those questions you are not alone!

Everyone knows that exercise has many physical and emotional benefits; it can make you stronger while also relieving your stress.  However, despite the well-known benefits of exercise, many people have trouble sticking with a consistent exercise regimen.

As a fitness professional with twenty-six years of experience, I have seen this happen to MANY people.  In fact, I would say that the majority of people struggle to maintain a regular exercise regiment.

Why?

Well, it is difficult to stay on task.   We are all busy, and it is easy to get distracted.

However, it doesn’t mean that it can’t be done; even busy people who often lack focus can make regular exercise a habit.   I know this because I interact with MANY people who have a regular exercise routine, and I what has helped them maintain this habit for years and allow it to become a part of their lifestyle.

 

Ways to Make Exercise a Habit

My experience has taught me that there are many ways to make exercise a habit.   However, I suggest trying the following strategy to keep your intentions intact and jumpstart your roadmap to regularity!

  1. Master your Mindset

    Henry Ford famously said “If you think you can do a thing or think you can’t do a thing, you’re right.”  In other words, what you think matters!   So if you believe that you are too busy, too lazy, too tired, etc. to add regular exercise into your life, you will most likely not be able to add regular exercise into your life.  On the other hand, if you believe that you will succeed, it is most likely that you will.  As Buddha said “What you think, you become.  What you feel, you attract.  What you imagine, you create.”

  2.  Set a Goal.

    Setting goals is an important, and often necessary, action.   After all, your intentions matter.

    goalsTherefore, when we set a goal, we are specifically telling the universe what we want to happen.  We are taking the time to define exactly what we want to accomplish; we are setting a clear intention.  We are making it more real.

    With regards to exercise, goal setting can:

      • speeds up your progress.
      • Increases the likelihood of success.
      • Increase your task persistence and make it less likely that you drop out

    If you need help getting started with writing meaningful goals, please read my previous blog posts on goal setting:

  3. Schedule It.

    timeMichael Hyatt says “What gets scheduled, get done.”

    In other words, if you block out time in advance to get something done, you are much more likely to accomplish it.

    Not surprisingly, this concept is especially true for exercise.  Although we all know the many benefits of exercise, many of us still tend to put it on the bottom of the list of priorities.

    However, I challenge you to record how you spend your time for the next week.  I would bet that you are spending some of your time doing things that are simply not a priority.   If this is the case with you, align your time to your priorities.

  4. Create space for it.

    In addition to creating a space on your calendar for exercise, you also need to plan a physical space for your exercise routine.

    Of course, there are many options for your exercise space.  your space could be you favorite local gym or studio.   Or, it could be an area in your house that is conducive to the exercise format that you have chosen.  If you live in an area that is experiencing great weather, you may choose to exercise outside.

    The location that you choose should resonate with you.  You should love it; so that you are more likely to look forward to the time that you will spend exercising there.

  5. Find an accountability partner or workout buddy.

    Most people would agree life is better together.

    Well, this isn’t just true for romantic endeavors; this is also true for exercise!   As explained in this article, research shows that if you exercise with someone else, you are more likely to feel accountable and stick with it!

  6. Hire a trainer/coach…..Monitor progress and give feedback

    While an accountability partner or workout buddy is a great support, sometimes we just don’t have currently have anyone who is appropriate for the role.  In this case, take the plunge to hire a fitness professional like me someone who will hold you accountable for meeting your goals.  Or, if you are on a budget and like technology, you could use an app like Habit List to help you achieve the goals that you set for yourself.

  7. Publicly profess your goal.

    When you tell your goals to others, you are making yourself publicly accountable.   So if you really want to increase the odds of accomplishing your exercise goals, tell others!   You can announce it to your lunch buddies at work, you can announce it at your next family event, or you can post it on your social media page; just choose what group will make you feel the most accountable and, therefore, make you the most likely to continue working towards your exercise goals.

  8. Join a community.

    Margaret Mead said “Never underestimate the power of a small group of people to change the world.  In fact, it is the only thing that ever has.”

    Undoubtedly, joining have been shown to influence behavior.  For this reason, joining an in-person or online support system to help you stick with your exercise routine.  Many different communities exist to support you.  The Facebook group that I oversee for people participating in my 30 Day Free Pilates Mat Challenge for Beginners is an example of an online support community that you could join.Learn Pilates at Home

5 Benefits of Pilates Mat Exercises

Why a regular practice can benefit you on and off the mat

Disclaimer:   Please remember to check with your physician before beginning any new exercise program, including a new Pilates Mat program.  

Regular Exercise is Important

In today’s fast-paced world, women (and men) must sometimes balance work, family, friends, and personal responsibilities.   As a result, it is often difficult to save time to exercise.

However, finding time to regularly exercise is important.   Regular exercise has many both physical and emotional benefits.   It can make you stronger and more flexible.   It can also help to counter the stresses that you encounter while trying to juggle home, work, and self.

Exercise can come in many forms.   Some people get their exercise through long walks, others like play racquetball, while some others enjoy swimming.

Many forms of exercise exist, and they all have benefits to you.   Therefore, no one can use a lack of choice of exercise choices as a justification to avoid exercise.   Everyone should be able to find an exercise that is both enjoyable and adaptable to their schedule and lifestyle.

 

The Benefits of Pilates Mat

Personally, one of my favorite forms of exercise is Pilates Mat.    I love it because it is adaptable.   If you have a mat and someone/something to instruct you on the proper way to perform the movements, Pilates Mat classes can be done with almost anywhere.  Therefore, you can decide to do Pilates Mat where it is convenient for you, whether that be at home or in a studio/gym.

Pilates Mat exercises are very popular because they have many benefits to the body and mind.   Five of the most significant benefits are listed and explained below.

 

Mind-Body Connection

Doing Pilates Mat can strengthen the relationship between your mind and body because the proper execution of Pilates exercises requires focus and concentration.

In other words, doing Pilates Mat exercises requires you to focus on the nuances of the movements.    Factors that include the degree of extension in your limbs, the angle of your arm or leg levers, and the stillness of your torso, can greatly impact the difficulty and/or effectiveness of a movement.    Furthermore, some Pilates Mat exercises require you to concentrate on keeping some parts of your body completely still while simultaneously focusing on movement in other parts of your body.

Therefore, if you don’t maintain focus and concentration while doing a Pilates Mat movement, it is unlikely that you will properly perform each movement. In fact, you risk either getting injured while doing the movements or making the exercises less effective.

Focus on Alignment

Spine So how does focusing on the principles required to execute pilates movements help you when you are “off the mat”?   Well, like anything else, skills and tasks that you practice regularly are likely to become habitual.

For instance, during a regular Pilates exercise practice you will need to become attuned to your alignment.  This way, you can make any necessary positional adjustments to get you in the right anatomical position for the movement.

The focus on your alignment will not disappear when you leave your mat.  In fact, you will likely become more aware of habits that you didn’t previously notice.  You will most likely become more focused on your alignment in your daily activities.   For instance, you may become more aware of how you sit or move when at your computer, steering wheel, or checkout line.    Hopefully, this increased awareness will make you more likely to make positive postural adjustments to your position that you may not have previously noticed.

Focus on Breathe

breathe here nowOr, the focus on attention to the breathe while doing Pilates exercises may also give benefits off of the mat.  You can learn to be more cognizant of your breathe.    (In general, during a Pilates Mat class, you focus on inhaling through the nose and exhaling out the mouth.  The exhale in Pilates can be somewhat powerful because it can assist you with the execution of the hardest part of a Pilates exercise.) In turn, you can become more attuned to the messages that your breathing can convey and be more likely to react mindfully, with intention, instead of reacting to an impulse at the moment.

For instance, if you know that you practice a short and shallow breathe when your body is tired or stressed, the increased awareness on your breathe may help you to better recognize when your body is starting to become tired or stressed.   You may be able to make quicker action to ensure that your body not get to the point where it is over tired or over stressed.    For instance, even something as simply as returning the focus to maintaining a steady and deep breathe like you use in Pilates mat or yoga classes may help you to relax.

 

Improves Core Strength

Pilates at home is one of the most effective and challenging ways of developing core strength and stability.  (Core muscles include the abdomen, lower back, and glutes.)  A strong core improves overall daily function as well as posture.

 

Promotes Muscular Endurance and Flexibility

Pilates Mat exercises also promote significant increases in abdominal endurance, hamstring flexibility and upper-body muscular endurance. This endurance can help women work and play longer without tiring. In addition, muscular endurance is a key preventative factor in the long-term avoidance of injury.

 

Optimize Body Composition

Regular Pilates practice helps enhance overall body composition. Pilates focuses on lengthening and strengthening the body, and when you repeatedly stretch and strengthen, you tend to lose fat, increase lean muscle mass, and have a more balanced body composition.

 

Maintain Spine Health

Pilates mat exercises can often help people with back issues because it helps to strengthen the muscles in the back.  Therefore, Pilates Mat can be particularly effective for people who suffer from pain caused by excessive movement and degeneration of the vertebrae and joints.

One reason that Pilates Mat is beneficial for many people with back issues is because many Pilates Mat exercises require you to emphasis proper back alignment in order to prevent excess stress on the spinal column.    Someone who practices Pilates Mat regularly may be able to duplicate this awareness into their “off the mat” activities.  Their increased focus and attention to spinal alignment can help them better recognize how to hold their body when sitting, standing, and moving during their daily activities.

 

The Benefits of Pilates

No matter what your schedule or priorities, finding time for mat Pilates is a must.    Its vast array of benefits will help you to work towards improving your life.

Free 30 Day Challenge

If you are hesitant about attending a class at a gym or studio, don’t worry!  You can learn 30 common Pilates Mat exercises without having to worry about any cost and location barriers.  Just join our FREE 30 day Pilates Mat challenge for beginners  to learn the fundamentals.

Please don’t delay; starting a Pilates Mat practice is a beneficial breeze!

How do I make time for exercise?

Five suggestions for busy people who want to get fit.

Finding the Time

With 27 years of an experience as a fitness professional, I have had encountered many people who want to exercise consistently.

However, most of the people confess that they are not sure how they  can consistently fit exercise into their already busy schedule.  With jobs, significant others, family responsibilities, hobbies, and life in general, it is hard to find any “free” time to fit one more thing.

But, we all know that many busy people actually do consistently fit exercise into their life.   So how can you do it too?

 

1-Decide that Exercise is a Priority

I am going to be brutally honest, even though you may not like it.  It is unlikely that you will be successful in reaching your goal to consistently exercise if you don’t feel it is a top priority in your life.

That is, if it isn’t extremely important to you, you are unlikely to follow through long-term.  (BTW, I feel like this is true for most facets of our life.  If it isn’t a priority, it is unlikely it will remain habitual; whether it will be spending time with your friends, family members, etc. or saving money for the future.)

In my opinion, the single most important step in establishing a consistent exercise routine is deciding that this is important to you.

So before you buy a treadmill, sign up for a gym membership, buy an exercise DVD on Amazon, or start any other physical aspect of exercise, you must work on the mental component first.  You need to me in the right mental place before you can get in a good physical place.

 

2-Choose Something that you Enjoy.

Choosing something that you enjoy may seem obvious but it is something that is commonly overlooked.

Many people try an exercise that is popular, rather than an exercise that they will truly embrace.

For instance, while I wish that everyone loved taking classes at a fitness studio like mine (Auburn Yoga & Pilates Center), I recognize that our method of exercising is not for everyone.   Some people would prefer something else; dancing, swimming, running, bodybuilding, walking, etc.

It is important to do an exercise that you truly enjoy because, most often, people who stop exercising report that either they didn’t enjoy doing what they were doing for exercise.

While different types of exercise have different benefits, ; some have more cardio benefits, some have more strength training benefits, and some have flexibility benefits.  Of course, some types of exercise have multiple benefits.

But, all forms of exercise can be beneficial.  And although you may not choose the optimal exercise, choosing to do some form of exercise is undoubtedly better than choosing not to exercise.    The key is that you find a form of physical activity that you can embrace, that better suits you personal tastes and/or schedule; this way, you are more likely to stick with it.

 

3-Make the Time

If you are going to maintain a consistent exercise regiment, you will need to make the time for it.   For many of you, this means that you may need to take a critical look at how you spend your time.

If you haven’t ever done an analysis of your time, you definitely should.  Try writing down what you do for two days.   Try selecting a weekend and a weekday so that you can see the differences in a work and non-work day, if there are any.

I did an analysis of my time, and it was definitely revealing.   Personally, I found that I was spending a lot of time on activities that really weren’t a priority for me.

For instance, in my personal situation, my time analysis revealed that I was spending too much time on social media.   Those “quick checkins” were adding up to a half hour or more of time.

For me, social media was not a priority.  It isn’t that I don’t enjoy reading posts from friends and acquaintances;  it is just that I would rather spend time with my kids or working on my business.   Plus I figure that if it is important, someone will tell me.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that I never go on Facebook.  During the academic year, I limit myself to no more than 10 minutes a day.  During the summer when I work a slightly less demanding schedule, I am more liberal.

Of course, I am not here to tell you what you should and shouldn’t spend your time doing.  How you spend your time is ultimately your decision because your time is just that, YOUR TIME.

But, I am telling you that you should take a critical look at how you spend your time so that you can align your activities with your priorities.

Doing this will inevitably cause you to rank your priorities; and if exercise is really a priority for you, you will find some time.

 

4-Exercise when it Works for You

Over the years, people have asked me when they should exercise.  Should they exercise in the morning?  at night?  during their lunch hour?

I emphatically tell all of them that they should exercise when it makes the most sense for them to exercise.   In other words, if exercising before work is the best time, do it then.  If you have time for a walk during your lunch hour, exercise then.  If you are too exhausted to even think about exercise when you come home from work, don’t plan to exercise at that time.

In other words, exercise when it works for you; you are more likely to stick with it if it works with your life.

But aren’t there some studies that found the optimal time to workout?  Probably.  But, if the time that you exercise doesn’t make sense for you, then you are unlikely to stick with it.

 

5-Exercise how it works for you

How you exercise is just as important as exercising when it works for you.   You have to decide how you prefer to exercise.

That is, maybe you would like to take classes at a studio like mine (Auburn Yoga & Pilates).  After all, having an instructor to plan and guide a safe and effective workout for you takes planning off of your plate.   You simply have to show up and follow along.

Or, maybe you like going for a walk or run with your partner.   If you are both enthusiastic about the exercise, it might be a nice togetherness activity for you.

Maybe you want to join a gym.   If you are someone who likes a variety of equipment, or simply enjoy people watching while you exercise, a gym membership might work for you.  Or, maybe the fact that you are obligated to pay a monthly fee will motivate you to stay consistent.

Or, maybe you want to exercise at home.   If you like exercising alone in your own space, this is a logical choice for you.  However, exercising at home sometimes leaves the planning and equipment to you, unless you want to participate in an online challenge similar to the one that I describe below…

30 Day Pilates Challenge for Beginners

30 day pilates challenge for beginners

I have met so many people that are hesitant to attend a class at a studio or set foot in a gym.  For some reason, they are afraid that they will feel out of place because they are a beginner.

In my opinion, the fear of feeling out of place is unwarranted.   I hope that the staff at any quality facility would do their best to welcome and assist any new client who visit their facility.

However, my many years as a fitness professional have taught me that the fear is real for many people.   For this reason, I am starting my first ever, online challenge for beginners who want to learn pilates.

I chose pilates because I have found that many new clients want to try pilates but don’t know where to start.  They have heard or read that pilates strengthens their core, but they don’t feel that they are strong enough to start.

So, to help conquer fear and hopefully help people to embrace pilates, I am offering a FREE 30 day pilates challenge for beginners.

In the challenge, I introduce you to 30 common pilates mat exercises through 30 short video clips.  I break down how to do the pose, and I give you modifications for beginners.

The goal is get you familiar with the movements.   Watching some of the videos more than once, and practicing them consistently will make you  more confident and stronger.

At the end of the challenge, you can choose how and when to practice pilates mat, providing that you enjoy doing it as much as I do.

If you are interested, sign up at www.doingpilatesathome.com

 

 

 

 

Need and Energy Shift? Try Using Reiki to Change Your Energy

Method for self-healing or the healing of others

What is Reiki?

Reiki (pronounced RAY-key) is a Japanese form of spiritual medicine.  Mikao Usui developed it in the early 20th centuryIt uses hands to transfer energy/healing to someone (or something).

 

Really….Is Reiki a Magic Elixer or Hogwash?

Reiki has existed for more than 100 years.  However, it is still not universally accepted as a healing techniques.

After all, it utilizes energy, which can’t be seen.

For this reason, many people are still skeptical on the effectiveness of this method even though it is widely used and accepted.

In fact, the Catholic Church, through the 2009 U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops issued guidelines that say “a Catholic who puts his or her trust in Reiki would be operating in the realm of superstition.”   Furthermore, the churches’ guidelines say it would be inappropriate for Catholic institutions to offer reiki to their patients.   (Please note that the author let out a big sigh and eye roll while writing these two sentences.)

Furthermore, in the past, there was limited scientific research on reiki .   However, recent trials are beginning to show scientific evidence of the benefits.   For instance, reports on benefits from just a few studies include the following conclusions:

My Reiki Journey: How it Began

My children recently went to visit family with their father, and I found myself with the unique opportunity to have some “unscheduled time” while they were away.

Coincidentally, I saw that a somewhat local metaphysical shop that I sometimes visit was holding a Reiki Level 1 Certification class during my “free” weekend.

I had always been interested in learning more about reiki, for personal and professional reasons.   Personally, I had heard so many stores about the wonderful energy and healing shifts that happen for many people who receive a reiki healing;  I hoped that I could learn something that could benefit me, my family, or my friends.  Professionally, I thought that knowledge of it might benefit me as a yoga instructor and wellness/fitness studio owner.

Procrastination Almost Kept Me from Learning

While I was tempted to sign up, I must admit that I procrastinated in signing up.

While I was interested in signing up, I was conflicted about taking the training.    Part of me was saying that the universe was gifting me with the opportunity to take this training, but the other part of me was thinking about all of the projects that I could tackle if I was home alone for a weekend!

The day the training was to start, my inner voice told me that I should take the opportunity to attend the training.  However, when I went to sign up online, I found out that the training was full!

DRAT!   I had waited to0 long to sign-up.  (The lesson here is that, when you feel compelled to do something, you should seize the moment.)

Persistance and Timing

For the first few moments learning the certification was full, I took the news as a sign that the universe didn’t feel that I should participate in this training.

But, then my inner voice returned, and I couldn’t release this feeling that I should keep trying to sign up.

So, I called the store.  They verified that the class was full and stated that I was on the waiting list.  If someone dropped out, they would call me.   (I felt that it was unlikely that someone would drop out at that point because the training was that night.)

Refusing to give up, I emailed the instructor teaching the class to ask if I could possibly be added.    It was my lucky day!  She promptly responded saying that, while it was full, I could join the class if I felt that this was the time that I should take the class.  She believed in divine timing.  I was grateful to the teacher, and I was in!  Thank you universal timing!

So What is the Level 1 Reiki Certification?

Level 1 Certification is anReiki stone introductory course, generally open to anyone who is interested in learning reiki.  In essence, the course introduces participants to this universal life force that channels through all of us.  It also teaches us how and why this energy is effective in healing.    Most often, participants receive an overview of the history of the method, along with knowledge pertaining to specific hand placements for practicing on yourself and others.  The hand positions essentially align to the chakras (energy centers) of the body.

Participants who want to pursue additional trainings can pursue a Level 2 and/or 3 certifications.

To learn more about reiki, visit some of these sites:

What happened at the training?

True to the description, I learned about the history of reiki.  I learned how to perform it on myself.  I also learned how to do a treatment to a supine or seated participant.

Furthermore, I received two reiki attunements.

Attunements

Part of the level 1 training involves reiki attunements.

I must admit, before taking the certification, I did not have any knowledge of these attunements.  I didn’t know what they were or how they were done.

However, on the first night of the training, the instructor explained that learning reiki is different than learEnergy ning many other modalities.  Instead of studying the material and taking a test, as you would when learning other information or techniques, you receive the gift of reiki through the master instructor.

Basically, the process opens the participant’s crown, heart, and palm chakras by creating a special link between the student and the Reiki source.

I must also admit that when I first saw the attunement process, I thought it was a little odd.   The room was dimly lit.  Each trainee took turns sitting in a chair, and the teacher performed a ritual that involved bowing, circling, etc.  the participant.

But, I will admit that it was a powerful experience.   The energy in the room was intense.   I even started to unexpectedly cry at one point.

Attunement Hangover

Reiki.org explains that the Reiki attunement “is a powerful spiritual experience.

My instructor explained that the reiki attunement starts a “21 day cleanse.”  However, this attunement cleanse is much different than the type of cleanse that you may personally know.    The reiki attunement is a cleansing process that “cleans” the energy in your body.   It can impact the physical body and the emotions by enabling the removal of toxins that have been “stuck” in the body.   These toxins can have many forms, including the release of thoughts and feelings that no longer serve you.

In addition, “the attunement can also increase psychic sensitivity. Students often report experiences involving: opening of the third eye, increased intuitive awareness, and other psychic abilities after receiving a Reiki attunement.

I am now about 17 days into my cleanse.   While I can’t admit that I feel like I have released all my toxins, and I am not yet personally seeing auras, or experiencing any other noticeably new psychic gifts, some things did shift after my reiki attunement!

While I initially expected the attunement to yield positive results immediately, I found that my initial results were not positive!

For the first two weeks, I felt overly overly sensitive.   I didn’t have my same energy level.

What was going on? Have I opened up some Pandora’s box that I won’t be able to shut?

Cleaning House

Luckily, a “Google investigations” yielded some comforting answers.   A reiki website said that the effects of an attunement can be compared to those encountered when cleaning a dusty house.  That is, when you first start to clean, the dust can fly around and make you cough and sneeze.   However, after some time, the dust settles, and you have a cleaner house!

So I am confident that, by the end of this process, I will be energetically “unclogged.”   I am hopeful that the flow of energy in me will be improved.   Additionally, I hope that I am able to be an conduit of positive energy for friends and family, if needed.

Stories that Opened my Mind

Personally, after attending the training, I believe that reiki has real benefits.

Not only did I hear stories at the training, I heard stories after the training when I told people that I had attended.

The instructor and participants in the class told stories about medical aliments, from a chronic limp to cancer, that were resolved after reiki treatments.   Students at my studio shared stories about having a reiki treatment lower their blood pressure or relieve chronic pain.

I also learned that many in the medical community are now acknowledging the healing power of reiki.   For instance, the nurses who attended the training received CEUs for it.    (Yoga instructors like me also received continuing education credits for attending.)

Furthermore, I also learned that many area hospitals are using it as part of their treatments after one woman from the training spoke of receiving reiki after waking up from surgery at a Boston area hospital.  (Curious about this, I did my own research.  I found that more than 60 U.S. hospitals use Reiki as part of patient services.  Additionally,  more than 800 hospitals offer reiki education to patients.  Other hospitals, like Boston Childrens’ Hospital, offer reiki education classes to interested parents.

Using Reiki on Animals, Situations, etc.

Before the training, I had no idea that reiki didn’t have to only be used on people.  I also didn’t know that seasoned practitioners can sometimes send it without using their hands. In fact, learned that reiki could be used on a person, animal situation, object, etc!   (I thought that this was SO fascinating!)

For instance, a surgical technician admitted that she sometimes performed it on the surgical instruments before surgery.  She hoped to send positive energy into the tools being used to heal the patient through the practice.

The teacher who led the training, who was a nurse, told us how she sometimes gives it through her eyes when working with patients undergoing stressful situations.

Another woman said that she knew of people who primarily performed it on pets.

Learn More

if you are interested in learning more about this healing method, I would highly recommend enrolling in a reiki level 1 certification.    Or, I would suggest looking for a qualified practitioner who is local to you if you feel like you could benefit from a healing session.

For me personally, the experience reminded me of the importance of listening to the universal voice that speaks to you.   In other words, when it talks to you, be sure to listen. It is almost always helping you to do or know something for your greater good!

If it Doesn’t Serve You, Don’t Tolerate It

Why do we put up with the bull?

Why do we Tolerate that which doesn’t Serve Us?

Why do we put up with bull?

Why do we tolerate problems that don’t have to present in our lives?

 

What We Can and Can’t Control

Unfortunately, there are some things that we can’t control.   Disease, natural disasters, war, etc. are often things that are beyond our control.

But. luckily, we can control many aspects of our life.

For instance, you can control things like your breath, your self-talk, and your attitude.  You can also decide whether or not you communicate your thoughts and feelings.

In addition, we can also control many of the relationships and circumstances that don’t serve us.

God, Grant Me the Serenity

I have the Serenity Prayer prominently displayed in the main hallway of my house.   I believe that it is a good mantra for life.  It reads:

“God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.”
~Reinhold Niebuhr

 

 

In other words, change what you can, and accept what you can’t.   And, of course, don’t bullshit yourself about the difference between the things that you can and can’t change.

 

Sweat the Small Stuff

flowerSometimes, we are tolerating small annoyances, and we think that they don’t matter.   But THEY DO MATTER.

Maybe it is the leaky faucet that we hear dripping every night as we go to sleep, maybe it is the lukewarm coffee that we get at the drive thru on our way to work.

Either way, even small annoyances can have a BIG impact.

Instead of tolerating the annoyances, do something to eliminate them.  Changing your environment can have a big impact.

For instance…

I went to a Feng Shui workshop years ago and heard a story that has stuck with me for years.  The Feng Shui instructor told the story of a client who had a picture of the Eiffel Tower prominently hanging in her home.   The artwork was very tasteful and fairly expensive.  When the Feng Shui instructor saw it, she thought that it suited the client and her home.

But it turns out, that this picture ended up being a source of disharmony for the client.   Turns out, this picture was purchased years ago, when she was with her ex-partner. The relationship didn’t end the way that the client wanted, and the picture reminded her of the heartache that she experienced at the time.

Well, this picture was prominently displayed in her home.

She went by it SEVERAL times every day.

And EVERY time that she went by it, she was either consciously or unconsciously reminded of the old partner and the unhappy ending.

Clearly, the picture was not serving her for a long time.  But, the picture remained prominently displayed in her house for all that time.

Why did she hold on to it when it wasn’t serving her?

Several reasons:

  • The picture had a monetary value.   Maybe she felt that removing it would be like throwing money away.  Or, maybe she didn’t want to spend the money to replace the picture with another.
  • Replacing the picture takes some time and effort.  If she removed the picture and wanted to fill the space with another picture, she would have to spend time finding a new one that better suited her and the space.
  • She didn’t evaluate the cumulative negative impact of the picture.   While she sometimes recognized that the picture conjured unhappy thoughts, she discounted the impact of experiencing these thoughts frequently, over a long period of time.

After the Feng Shui consultant explained the implications of this repeated toleration, the client removed the picture.  Soon after she found a new picture, she also found a new partner who was more suited for her.

 

The Big Stuff

Big issues like relationships and job situations can be complicated.

And even the best relationships have their less than ideal moments.  That is, sometimes, relationships and jobs present stressful situations that we need to accept and tolerate.   Nothing is perfect, and “if you look for perfection, you will never be content.

However, sometimes, we tolerate relationships and jobs are far from perfect when we shouldn’t put up with them.

For instance, you need to rid your life of situations that are:

  • Constantly draining your energy and repeatedly making you unhappy
  • Consistently making you feel unappreciated
  • Keeping you from showcasing your talents and passions
  • Providing no value for your time investment

 

Why Do We Tolerate it?

Personally, I have had several experiences with tolerating situations that didn’t serve me.

In the past, I have been guilty of staying in “friendships” and romantic partnerships that didn’t serve me.

I have stayed in jobs that haven’t served me.

Why?

Well, there are several reasons..

Sometimes, I felt guilty.   Other people may be hurt by my decision.

Other times, I was trying to give the situation time to work itself out.

Or, I was giving the person an opportunity to act differently after letting them know my feelings.

Other times, I was in denial.  I either consciously or unconsciously failed to see that I was foolishly tolerating the situation that I was in, instead of acting to change it.

Sometimes, I was giving the person or the situation another opportunity.  After all, we know that we sometimes misinterpret the situation at hand or the behavior of others.  I firmly believe that people and situations are multi-faceted; until we have had an opportunity to view all of the sides, it isn’t always worth giving up.

But, in the end, tolerating the situation that really annoyed me, never served me.

 

Have the Courage to Change It

We all know that change is difficult.

Letting go is not easy.   

Sometimes, we are more comfortable staying in our current situation because taking action can be scary.  Taking action means that we will have to be somewhere new, an unknown place that may be the same or worse than we we are now.   BUT, what if we create a better situation?

What if we find a better job?

What if we increase our income?

What if we find a partner who is better suited for us?

What if we are simply happier and more energetic because we aren’t experiencing a time, monetary, or energetic drain anymore?

Let Go

Analyze first, Act second.

I am not suggesting that you write off everyone and everything the moment that it annoys you.

Instead…

When UnsureReflect on the situation or relationship.

Mediate about it.

Discuss it with an unbiased close friend or counselor.

Pray about it.

When appropriate, share your feeling with the person/people who is/are involved.

Then, if you determine that it isn’t for your highest good, stop tolerating it and let it go.

Tell yourself that you deserve better.  Life is too short to tolerate.

Are You Worth the Investment? Measuring the Benefits and Costs.

Having Children Requires a Sizable Investment

Anyone who has kids know that they are an investment.   Raising them requires a lot of time and a lot of money.

Last week, CNN let parents like me know exactly how much it cost when they reported that it costs $233,610 to raise a child through age 17!

Yes, you read that statistic correctly!   I did not forget a decimal place; an average middle income couple spends over a quarter of a million dollars to raise a child through high school.

Add on college to these costs, and the price of raising a child skyrockets even higher.

Where’s the Money?

Like many other people, I read the statistic regarding the cost of raising a child and wonder how it can be correct.   After all, most “average” people like me sometimes struggle to find the couple hundred dollars to pay the next dance or gymnastics bill.   We surely don’t have a quarter of a million dollars available to spend.

But, when you break it down, the numbers work out.

The article went on to explain that, on average, most families spend between $12,350 and nearly $14,000 a year to raise a child.  Multiply that figure by 17 and get to a quarter of a million dollars.

Thank God for Kids

Although the majority of adults  realize that raising children is often outrageously expensive and requires a major commitment of time, the majority of adults are still deciding to have children.  Obviously, these parents believe that the “returns” are worth the investment.  Or, that sometimes children can provide more satisfactions than could be obtained spending the quarter of a million dollars on other expenditures.

In other words, spending money on something valuable can produce both tangible and non-tangible results.

Where Did You Get the Money?

Most “average” people cannot produce a quarter of a million dollars.  However, as previously mentioned, most people do manage to “find” that amount of money over seventeen years.

 

Children aren’t the Only Important Investment

After hearing about the amount of money spent on raising children, I couldn’t help but think about the importance of investing.
For instance, how often have we heard about the compound effect of saving money early and consistently for retirement.

However, investing in stocks, bonds, IRAs, and 401Ks are the only important investment.    In fact, I argue that investing in your well being is just as important as investing in your retirement.   After all, if your spiritual and emotional needs are taken care of, you are likely to be in a place that will allow you to obtain a higher paying job.

So many people understand the rewards of investing in their children.  Yet, they fail to understand the rewards of investing in themselves. They enroll their child in soccer or dance so that they can stay active, or learn to function as a productive member of a team.   Or, they hire a math tutor so that their child will experience less struggles in school.  They bring their child to Disney so that their child can experience a fun trip.

That is, parents will often spend money on their children without hesitation if they feel that there are potential rewards.  However, these same people will hesitate spending money on something that would provide them with great benefits and/or rewards.

 

Perspective from A Business Owner

As the owner of a yoga studio, I see it often.  People are willing to spend hundreds and hundreds of dollars on dance, hockey, study abroad programs, etc. for their children.   However, they are often hesitant to buy a themselves a package of yoga classes even though the yoga classes could provide them with more flexibility or energy to play with their children, better stress management techniques to handle the day-to-day stress at work, more mindfulness to help make clear decisions,  or more strength and flexibility to simply feel better in their own skin.

Granted, sometimes it is about the money.  I get it.  Since divorcing, money is tighter than it used to be, and I am very selective about where I do spend the money that isn’t already allotted for something necessary.

Trust me, I understand.  I work three jobs to pay the bills.   I don’t spend money foolishly but I always feel like I need more money to get by.

But, in reality, I have always been able to get by.    By practicing the laws of spiritual prosperity found in Edwene Gaines’ The Four Laws of Spiritual Prosperity:  A Simple Guide to Unlimited Abundance I have found that the universe truly does support you, and money has manifested when I really need it.

 

It Isn’t All About the Money

But, I also know that sometimes, it isn’t about the money.    Sometimes investing in yourself can be frightening in ways that have nothing to do with money.

investment is frightening

Sometimes people fail to invest in themselves because they are afraid that others will judge them if they indulge in the expensive new dress or bracelet that they have been wanting.

Or, maybe they fail to sign up for the yoga class that they have been wanting to try because they are afraid that the class may be too challenging.  In fact, it is possible that they may even be fearful that someone will think that you “look funny” while trying a pose.<

Or, they fail to sign up for the classes or workshops that they consider taking because they are afraid of taking a risk to try something in which they are not guaranteed to succeed.   For instance, when recently teaching a course on Vision Boards and goal setting, I was asked if I could guarantee that their vision board would guarantee them to manifest their goal.   I responded honestly, saying that there was no guarantee.

HOWEVER, choosing not to enroll in the class made it less likely that they would take focused action towards meeting their goals.  In other words, doing nothing was NOT likely to produce to meaningful results.

The Importance of Investing in Yourself

As mentioned, it is my opinion that investing in yourself is one of the most significant things that you can do, both for yourself and for those that you love.
After all, investing in yourself can have so many far reaching benefits.
Investing in yourself will enable you to acquire more knowledge about yourself and/or the world around you.

Knowledge is Power

The popular saying says that “knowledge is power.”  That is, once you know something, you are equipped to position yourself better.

While investing in yourself, it is likely that you may:

Learn a new skill that lands you a better job or raise at your current job.

Learn a new exercise that alleviates your back pain.

Learn a new method of managing your personal business that saves you time or money.

Learn a new investment strategy that yields a new return.

Learn how to better communicate with your partner.

Learn how to empower yourself to finally go after what you want.

Learn how to finally achieve a lifelong goal.

Experience enlightenment.

 

You MUST Invest

To experience the gains, you must commit to making an investment.

Sometimes, you must invest time, and sometimes you must invest money.   Often times, you need to invest TIME and MONEY.

invest time and money

Take Action

So if you have been wanting to take that yoga class, do it.

If you want to hire a personal trainer, do it.

If you want to go back to school to make that career change that you want to make, do it.

And don’t wait.  Do it now, and commit to making the investment to create a more powerful, smarter, calmer, confident, talented, etc. YOU!!

 

 

 

Risk and Reward: do you need risk to reap reward?

Sometimes Life is a Four Letter Word

Lessons from Books

I must admit, I am on a string of amazing (in my opinion) books lately.  I have thoroughly enjoyed the last several books that I have read, and I would highly recommend them to anyone who likes (or needs) self-development books..

Each author had their own story and lesson to share in each book.  As a result, each book shares a valuable message.

Steve Harvey

One of my latest books conveying these messages to me is Jump by Steve Harvey.

Now, I know what some of you are thinking.  You are thinking, “Jennifer, you read books by Paulo Coehlo, Wayne Dyer, Gabrielle Bernstein, Marianne Williamson, and….Steve Harvey?”

Yup, I do.

I am a huge Steve Harvey fan.  In fact, I believe that I have read all of his books.

I think he is funny. and I also greatly admire what he has achieved in his life.  In addition, I also admire how he has tried to use the “fruits of his labor” to make a positive impact in the world, through his mentoring programs for young boys.

Certainly, Harvey is a good storyteller. He has a message, and he knows how to effectively convey his message; his messages are “to the point” and he uses his background as a comedian to tell them in a humorous way.

Jumping

In his latest book, Jump, Harvey discusses the importance of having the guts and determination to take jumps, or leaps, in life.

He discusses how life presents ALL of us with opportunities to pursue our dreams.  BUT, we have to be aware of them, and we have to have the courage to pursue them.  In other words, we have to have unwavering faith in our natural abilities and gut instincts and JUMP towards our goals and dreams.

Otherwise, we risk missing out on the life that we truly want.

After all, as the old saying goes, “we only regret the risks that we didn’t take.”

Risk

Barry Farber famously said that “Without risk, there is no reward.”

But risk, by definition, is risky.

Taking action can be HARD!  As a result, most of us avoid it whenever possible.   We avoid leaving our comfort zone.

Sometimes, the self talk gets the best of us.  We convince ourselves that if we don’t jump, we won’t risk getting bruised.   We won’t fall, so we won’t break.  We will stay whole.

But, staying whole doesn’t mean that we will be complete.

Failing to pursue our dreams will most likely result in less fulfilling life, whether that means that we never get the dream job that we want, or whether it means that the wildly romantic partnership we wish for will never materialize.

Telling the Universe What We Want

As Harvey stated in the book, it i
s hard, or even impossible, to achieve “gifts” from the universe when you don’t tell the universe what you want.  If we want the universe to help you to achieve your desires, we must tell the universe what we want.      After all, how likely is it that you get the present that you really wanted for Christmas if you never let any of your friends or relatives know that is what you really wanted?

For this reason, we must be definitive and clear in our intentions to the universe so that it can support us in the pursuit of our dreams.

Universe Meme

If you need help setting clear goals, please read these past blog posts:

 The Universe is not a Magic Lamp

We also need to remember that the universe will not generally simply give us everything that we desire.  It is not a genie, waiting in a bottle to deliver the wishes that we create.

We can’t set our intentions and simply sit back and wait, thinking that the universe will simply deliver it to us.  Unfortunately, that isn’t the way that it works.

Instead, to accomplish our desires, we must follow these three steps:

  1. Clearly tell the universe what we want
  2. Show the universe that we are putting in the work to achieve our goals
  3. Be willing to trust in yourself and take a risk

The Universe WILL Test You

Know that it is likely that they universe will provide you with the support that you need to achieve your goals.   But, that doesn’t mean that it necessarily be an easy road.

Life will test you along the way.

It will see how badly you want it.

It might knock you down and see if you want it so badly that you get back up.

There are No Guarantees

I would love to tell you that, if you take action towards the pursuit of your dreams, you are guaranteed success.  However, the harsh reality is that, even with hard work and good intentions, jumping towards our dreams does not always produce the intended results.

Unfortunately, life doesn’t always turn out like we planned.

Sometimes, despite our best efforts and well laid plans, we experience twists and turns in the road, or even a road that appears to be a dead end.  We will likely all experience turbulent times, whether it be a relationship crisis, health crisis, job crisis, etc.

Sometimes the path is clear and we can fly or sail directly towards our destination with no obstacles.   Sometimes we have to jump over hurdles, avoid potholes, or even pull ourselves out of a ditch.

In fact, life can sometimes be a struggle.   The life that we want may not be not match our experiences.

As Harvey says in one of my favorite lines from the book, “Sometimes, life is a four letter word.”

However, even if the path to our destination is full of challenges, we are unlikely to achieve what we want if we don’t ever pursue it.

That is, the risk of turbulence doesn’t mean that you should avoid the opportunity to fly.   After all, avoiding flight may cause you to miss a breathtaking view, or you may be unable to reach your destination without boarding the plane.

Don’t Stop Jumping

The decision to jump, or not jump, applies to all aspects of your life.Jump Meme

If you want a promotion, you have to jump.

If you want to earn a degree, you have to jump.

If you want to increase your income, you have to jump.

If you want to experience a different culture, you have to jump.

If you want a wildly romantic and compatible partnership, you have to jump.

Jumping and Relationships

While writing this post, I couldn’t help but see the implications that jumping (or not jumping) has on relationships.

Personally, virtually everyone that I know wants to acquire or maintain a long-term, blissfully happy and widely romantic relationships.

Some of these people have found “the right one” and are experiencing the relationship of their dreams.

However, too many people that I know are unable to find, or keep, the relationship of their dreams.

Giving Up

Of course, now that I am in my forties, I have heard many “war stories” about romance from many friends and acquaintances.   Of course, I also have my own experiences.

Some of these friends are still looking for “the right one.”

Others gave up on finding “the right one” and settled for the “good enough one.”

Still some others have completely given up on finding “the right one.”

Decide What is Important to You

Of course, a wildly happy and romantic relationship is not a priority for everyone.  Everyone is different, and everyone has somewhat unique priorities.

If a relationship is not a priority for you, then you should definitely not expend time or energy to acquire one.  Instead, focus your efforts on something that is really a priority in your life.

But, if you gave up on something that was important to you, then you should consider reevaluating.

Heartbreak and Hard Work

By the time that you a certain age in adulthood, many have been knocked around a bit.  Most of us have had our heart broken.    Some of us immediately think of a failed romantic relationship when we think that “life is sometimes a four letter word.”

The negative experiences sometimes cause people to give up on their dreams, whether it is finding the perfect mate, the perfect job, or the perfect housing.

Sometimes people convince themselves that finding a good relationship is too much work.  I have heard multiple say that “dating is too much work” and “takes too much time.”

Others decide that maintaining a relationship is too much work; staying in a relationship is not worth the compromises that have to be made, so they end their relationship.

Still others are simply afraid to pursue a good relationship because they feel that a good relationship won’t work or happen for them.

Of course, entering a relationship can be a risk.  When you are “all in” a relationship, you can become vulnerable.

You have to open your heart, and sometimes your home and wallet, to someone else.

You are forced to expose your real self to someone else.

You have to learn the art of compromise.

You might make a mistake.

You might get hurt.

But, as the old saying goes, “nothing worth having comes easy.”  So you probably won’t find your ideal made if you sit on your sofa alone every Saturday night.

Therefore, if finding a relationship is a priority, you need to take a calculated risk and JUMP into the pursuit of your dream.

My Thoughts

I could be wrong but, I wholeheartedly believe that we owe it to ourselves to try to create the happiest life that we can.  Undoubtedly, we all acknowledge that life is short; and it is most assuredly too short to life an unfulfilled life.

I also believe that we are all here to fulfill our SOUL purpose.  I have heard experts like Gabby Bernstein say that we have to learn lessons; I have heard others like Neale Donald Walsh say that we have to “remember” who we are.  (As a side note, I also found the Conversations with God books interesting.  While I understand some people’s hesitancy to take Walsh’s material as “gospel,” I considered the books an intriguing opinion on God and why we were are here.)

Granted, life is not a fairy tale.  Even with hard work and good intentions, you will not immediately cultivate everything that you want to achieve.  BUT, if you are unfulfilled in some aspect of your life, try to change it.  Don’t just jump, leap with wild abandon towards the life that you want.   You may stumble or fall but, eventually, the universe will support you and help you to achieve your dreams.

And as it always does, the universe always sends us exactly what I needed to hear as Harvey’s message was exactly what I needed to hear, just when I needed to hear it.  (Remember the universe sends us ALL signs.   We just need to stay “tuned in” to the signs and listen carefully.  For instance, maybe you have read this post all the way to the end because there is a message that you needed to hear contained in it?  ;-))