A Construction Project & Slow, Mindful Yoga

 
The last time I wrote here was in late August.  It's been a busy fall.
 
We’ve been involved in a home update/remodel which started in mid-August (though has been in the planning stages for over 2 years).  We wanted to create a space that was safer,  lighter,  more energy-efficient, and more accommodating – more in line with who we are and what we envision for ourselves and our family.
 
It’s taken a lot of focus and energy to do what we needed to so that our contractor could keep moving the project forward.  And while it’s not nearly completed, parts of life seem a little more normal, and I can feel some creative energy bubbling up.
 
I’ve been thinking about the parallels between this home remodel project and a slow, mindful yoga practice.  Here are some insights for today. (I’m practicing some self-compassion by not trying to write a big essay on this right now.)
 
 

• Recognize what you need for your well-being.
• Create a safe space and keep yourself safe.
• Meet your house where it is right now.  Work with what you have.
• Be flexible.  Adapt as necessary. 
• Practice compassion – toward yourself, toward the people who are supporting you, toward the people making your life better, and also toward your pets.
• Stay aware and curious.
• Acknowledge that the process is slow and the transformation will be gradual.
• Celebrate along the way.
• Be kind.

 
That’s my short list of insights, 4 months in.  There’s much more to say,  but I’ll save it for another day.
 
Oh, and one of the key things that has kept me sane…..breathing in slowly and smoothly, breathing out, making my exhale longer than my inhale. 
 
 hummmmmmmmm