I believe I can fly...

It had been a hot minute since I had been to an acro jam. I went from connecting regularly with wonderful acro yogis and teachers in Southern California, to traveling the world - never staying long enough to settle into a community and play. So when I discovered a group meeting up TODAY, I cleared my afternoon to go.

People were friendly; smiling when I joined them in the park. I introduced myself to one, who then introduced me to another…more names and faces than I can keep track of, but all seemed welcoming. I watched for a bit then got up the courage to ask to join in the fun.

. If you are unfamiliar with acro yoga, I’ve provided some background on the movement below. Although many people are already familiar with “flyers” and “bases”, there is also a special position called a “spotter” - essentially a person who provides support so that the others working to create shapes can do so in a safe manner.

As I was working with my new friends, suddenly I had a very Shrek-type epiphany realizing that acro yoga is a great metaphor for life. (No onions in this one…but hang with me for a sec.)

See I moved to Boston in October not knowing pretty much anyone, and having only a vague sense of the city. Hell I’ve openly admitted to having no idea why I felt so compelled in my gut to come to this particular place at this moment in my life.

But not only did I arrive, but I jumped (leapt, vaulted) right into the heart of the community. And truly I feel blessed to have flown. My business is growing, my friends base is thriving, and I feel comfortable now interacting with groups, individuals, businesses, and neighborhoods all around town.

However it has not been without support. Just like the spotter that offered assistance to me today as I worked in this new setting with people I didn’t know, many strangers (after meeting me) reached out with advice, a helping hand, and coaching. 

Ten months have passed - both exciting and chaotic times of trying to be in a new home with a new business and new community. I recognize gratefully that I might not have been as successful as I am thus far, without those who offered to be my metaphorical spotters as I strove to fly.

So this week, as you move through your day, I invite you to step out of your comfort zone too and see if there is a place you can be  spotter. Perhaps it’s a text to say, “thinking of you and believe in you”. Maybe it’s sitting with someone and listening as they talk about their hopes, dreams, or even fears. It could even be proving support for yourself, by giving yourself space and permission for self-care so you too can thrive. Whatever avenue you choose, experience what it feels like to provide assistance to someone (or yourself) trying to fly.

Back to my moment in the park though… 

As my spotter coached me through the movements, he eventually stepped back, allowing me and my base to enjoy a moment of completely freedom and balance. Glancing up at his face, I realized that his smile was as wide as my own. And suddenly I I felt at home here in my community - supported, encouraged, welcomed, and flying solo.

This is my yoga.

Throwback to my California jams with my fabulous friend Megan providing spotter support!

(Background on Acro Yoga for those new to the Idea)

Acro yoga is a unique concept. Two or more people work together to create beautiful shapes and choreography involving a mix of what appears to be yoga, acrobatics, dance, gymnastics, and strength training or flexibility postures. To be most effective and have a positive experience critical elements like trust, clear communication, and honesty are vital.

The language of acro yoga is interesting as well. Typically there are three main positions - flyer (the person often in the air), base (the person supporting the flyer whether lying on the ground, standing up, or moving about), and a spotter (who helps keep both the flyer and the base safe by providing stability support, assistance, feedback, and more). 

We talk of being a “community” and “playing” or “jamming”. We ask permission to provide and receive assistance whether verbally or physically (i.e. hands on support or adjustment). The community grows and shrinks as people visit or move, and often there are (unofficial) leaders or facilitators to put together events, answer questions, connect people together.

There are communities all over the world in nearly every major city. To find one near you, type in the words acro yoga and (insert name of your city) on Google or social media like Facebook, Instagram, etc.