Life and Business are not a Race but a Rhythm: Embracing Rhythm, Vulnerability, and Community
Over the years I've had the privilege of connecting with many heart-centered practitioners who pour their heart and soul into their work. In this blog I want to share with you the essence of a recent podcast episode, and share some of the insights and reflections that I hope will resonate with you.
You can listen to the full podcast episode called: Life and Business are not a Race but a Rhythm HERE
The Heartbeat of Practice: Finding Your Rhythm
In our line of work, whether as coaches, yoga teachers, therapists, or holistic wellness practitioners, we often face the pressure to constantly move forward, to compete, and to measure our success by the pace at which we progress. But I want to challenge that notion and invite you to think about your success in a different way - one that is gentler and more compassionate.
Because success isn't about racing full steam ahead - instead it's about finding your own rhythm, much like the ebb and flow of the breath that sustains each of us.
During my coaching and mentoring sessions with female practitioners, I've observed a common thread of frustration, overwhelm, and self-doubt. Let me tell you - these feelings are normal. They are part of our shared human experience. But they also signal a need - a need to embrace a more cyclical rhythm in our work. The kind of rhythm that allows for action, rest and play, for giving and receiving, and creating a sustainable and aligned practice and business.
The Foundation: Understanding and Meeting Your Needs
One of the foundational practices I prioritise daily is the understanding and meeting of my own needs. This is where somatic practices and self-compassion become my allies.
In my recent Masterclass on Overcoming Your Imposter Syndrome, we delved into the vulnerability of helping professions to self-doubt and perfectionism, which is very common, especially among women. Social conditioning has a significant impact, with societal expectations and pressures weighing heavily on female practitioners. So often we sacrifice our needs in order to take care of others, often ultimately paying with our own needs, health or dreams.
This is something I feel very passionate about and want to be one of the voices in the conversation and the wave of changing this pattern. When we understand that everything is built on how well we take care of ourselves - how we do everything changes.
The Power of Vulnerability and Community
It's time to acknowledge our vulnerability and seek out supportive communities. The notion of constant competition and the need to do everything on our own is a myth that needs dispelling. There is immense power in collaboration and connection. I urge all of us to create spaces where we can belong, be vulnerable, and share our journey with others. This is something that we create in our Trauma-informed Somatic Teacher and Coach for Women training certification.
One of the questions I ask myself and my clients regularly is: What do I know but may be avoiding acknowledging? This question invites self-compassion and kindness, allowing us to face our truths and grow from them. Without fully acknowledging our inner felt experience it is difficult to make any long term changes.
Embracing Your Rhythm and Seasonal Living
There are many healing benefits coming from embracing our own rhythm. One of those benefits is that it prevents exhaustion and burnout. Many of the practitioners I work with (and that includes myself) have experienced burnout and are very cautious about going there again. This can prevent us from following our dreams and building a business that fully expresses our passion and expertise.
I encourage you to consider the concept of Seasonal Living - aligning your work and life with the natural cycles of rest and activity. This approach fosters balance between work, play, and rest, and underscores the importance of self-care and creating supportive networks.
The Hope for Connection and Impact
As we conclude this reflection, my hope for all of us is to find joy and balance in both my personal and professional lives. To rest when needed, to play with joy, and to work with a heart full of passion. Together, let's connect and make a positive impact, supporting each other in our individual and collective journeys.
In essence, the path of a heart-centered practitioner is one of depth and authenticity. It's about embracing your unique rhythm, acknowledging your vulnerability, and finding strength in community. Remember, self-care is not a luxury - it's a necessity if you want to serve others effectively.
This topic is something we learn about and explore a lot in our accredited training certification: Trauma-informed Somatic Teacher and Coach for Women. We run this training twice a year in Spring and Autumn, and if you would like to join us please book a free call with me. I look forward to connecting with you soon.