“If the pose doesn’t feel good, move out of it,” she cooed, “Don’t stay in the pain.”
Don’t stay in the pain.
A message from the Summer Solstice yoga flow that sparked my inner depths as I flowed out of a pose that was indeed painful. Softer.
Many of us are feeling pain right now. I know this because you’re telling me. Poolside I ask you how you like that book & you tell me your family member died 5 years ago. You take an annual camping trip in their honor. Before my sitbones reach my yoga mat you’ve shared you quit your job today, that you should’ve divorced him sooner. You’re asking me who will advocate best for you in the delivery room as I sip my second cup of coffee.
I don’t know why I’m telling you this — a common statement said to me lately.
I believe you’re telling me this because you cannot stay in the pain. You don’t want to be the only one holding it, secretly, in isolation. I think you’re on to something. Keep bringing it up with people you feel safe with, who you trust will hear it or hold it.
For the first time in 5 years, I’ve started speaking about my birth story. First, to strangers at a preconception gathering. That fortified me to share more with friends who I was pleasantly surprised held me with it (I’ve had some doozies in the past, making it hard for me to trust). They listened, shared resources & guidance, and I felt seen in something I’ve kept to myself for maybe too long.
When you share what you’re going through, people feel safe to tell you what they’re going through; therein lies connection. We so desperately need this.
✌🏼 In peace & art,
Studio things
🌷 A snap of the color kit I curated for Wildflower Farm with a kind note from the owner, Jill. This was the result of a 2-hr design consult, a service to quickly guide you with logo/brand-related questions. Easy Venmo payment too, let me know.
🌄 Shared a stretch assignment (a term I learned from
) I led while at Chaco. Includes a truth I previously felt I couldn’t share publicly for fear of hindering my professional reputation. I have The Artist’s Way to thank for this courage (or lapse in judgment, who knows lol).📚 2025 BOOK CLUB titles are here if you need a read. + our 2024 titles:
Step away from media this weekend; it’s making you fearful, isolated, & skeptical of everyone. Go somewhere physical & share a snippet of yourself with a (kind) stranger. Observe how it makes you feel.
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Emily! This is beautiful - thank you for the mention. I love your pigeon pose sketch.
There’s a certain energy/aura that helps people feel secure and open to sharing their stories - you must have it. Hope you have a great weekend!