I am used to doing as many roundhouse kicks as I can in thirty seconds, so my “restorative yoga” weekend arrived as a notable change of pace. As I sat on the ground with my head resting on my arms on the chair in front of me, I had to work to slow down my body, mind, and spirit. I’ve been so excited about my upcoming book and living in productivity/task mode, but I needed stillness, silence and the restoration that only time in prayer seems to bring. There’s an alternating rhythm to life and both the fast and slow times need to be embraced and balanced. As I allowed myself to slow down, I made space for the full range of emotion that has been present lately, and I walked away refreshed and ready to work, play and love again.
What is your pace today? Do you need to slow down for a retreat, or to pick up your pace a bit? Consider short retreats in the moment, or a longer retreat if feasible. Return to your next moments with energy to create, give, and love. Look for an alternating rhythm that fits for you, and know that your rhythm and pace may look different from that of your spouse, friend, or colleague. Embrace it and move forward.