I recently had a conversation with Sarah, (our lead faculty member) in which she reminded me of the profound importance of bringing presence to yoga therapy clients by embracing self-care practices. She went on, “We are educators and guides to our yoga therapy clients, teaching them the art of self-care, finding joy, and embracing activities that light up their lives. Sometimes, we forget to follow our own advice.”
Sarah, who many of you know, spent a lot of time reflecting on this in the past few months. She decided to put her words into action and granted herself a precious gift she hadn’t allowed herself in a while—a midweek ski pass and a commitment to skiing on Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout the season!
For Sarah, the mountains are her sanctuary, a place where her heart soars. She has a history as a competitive skier and coach, and being on the slopes is where she finds pure happiness. Sarah’s act of embracing self-care practice and leading by example speaks volumes. She also noticed how the act helped her bring more presence to her yoga therapy clients.
As healthcare practitioners, we are not just caregivers but also role models for our clients. When we prioritize self-care and demonstrate its importance through our actions, we inspire those we serve to do the same. They are more likely to follow our guidance when they witness us practicing what we preach. By leading by example, we have the power to empower our clients to take control of their own health and well-being.
Picture a scenario where you are running on empty, both physically and emotionally drained. In such a state, how can you be fully present for your clients? By dedicating time to activities that bring you joy and relaxation, you replenish your energy and emotional reserves. This revitalization allows you to be more present, empathetic, and compassionate when attending to their needs.
But there’s more to it than just being present—there’s a profound ripple effect. When we care for our happiness and well-being, we become more than just healthcare providers; we become beacons of inspiration and positivity for our clients. They see the transformation in us, and it sparks a desire for change within them.
To further illustrate the power of leading by example, Sarah has created a video to share her passion with all of you. I encourage you to watch it and allow her enthusiasm to inspire your own pursuit of joy and self-care. To watch the video, click her photo above.
Sarah and I encourage you to reflect on your passions and what brings you joy. Take a moment to connect with yourself and find those activities that light up your soul. Will you embrace your joy today or in the near future?
Share your thoughts and inspirations below.
Upcoming courses led by Sarah: Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy Essentials and Bridge from Body to Soul.
