Aug 17

Giving Up a Yoga Class

A YOGI’S JOURNEY WITH PARKINSON’S – Volume 12

As a yoga teacher, dropping a class is kind of like breaking up with someone. This isn’t merely unsubscribing from a friend’s distribution list or “unfriending” them on Facebook. This is yoga abandonment!

The longer the “relationship” the greater the mutual investment and arguably co-dependence. It means messing with well-established comfort zones (for all parties involved). The spectrum of emotions can be dizzying (shock, anger, hurt, fear and denial) There will be questions: “Is there someone else?” (another class); “Was it something I did?” If there are no questions, no moist eyes and no goodbye hugs, that relationship should probably have been severed a while ago.

After an 8-year run (and excessive mental anguish), I decided to give up my Thursday 7:00 AM yoga class. Once decided, I wanted the “break-up” to be as smooth as possible (a noble but optimistic intention). I tried to make it clear, that I needed to free up that prime morning time for my daily pranayama (breathing) and meditation practices (both of which I have committed to as an essential part of my Parkinson’s treatment plan). The good-old, “It’s not you. It’s me” break-up.

The announcement went about as well as could be expected. However, I was left with the haunting feeling that the message heard was more a solemn “good-bye” than a fond “farewell”. Clearly, I am projecting. But, it was the first class I have given up since “coming out” of the Parkinson’s closet. I wanted the message to focus on the positive: I am actively pursuing my health and well being. I am empowering myself to navigate the path before me. I am not a helpless victim. Still, from my students perspective, my presence in their lives (and their yoga studio) got smaller.

“When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be”

…Lao Tzu

In hindsight, the decision to break up was a good one. We can’t grow without occasionally letting go. My teaching practice continues to thrive with new classes and new clients. My morning breathing and meditation practices are strong, steady and essential to my continued well-being. Meditation and Pranayama are also subjects for future blogs (hopefully soon).

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Be Well!

…Keith

 

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed on this site are my opinions. My words should not be taken as a substitute for qualified medical expertise. This blog is designed to chronicle my journey, share what I learn in the process, and connect with others on a similar path.