I wrote this post in late February before we were navigating these very challenging times.  Perhaps a fearless heart can apply in these moments too.  Please be well, and join me on my new journey!
                  

A Fearless Heart

      This was my personal theme for the month of February the monthly theme for my yoga classes and the monthly Women’s Wisdom circle gathering that I lead with Tara.  To explore the idea of a "fearless heart".  There are many ways to interpret these two words. One is to have the courage to listen to the gentle wisdom that comes from our hearts. To listen to those inner feelings that guide us toward choices and decisions that help us thrive and stay balanced in life. 
 
      My fearless heart has been nudging me for some time, to prioritize one of my passions, teaching YOGA!  My heart has been encouraging me to take a risk, and change things up and be open to creating more opportunities to teach yoga, lead workshops and retreats, and continue to be curious while studying the vast potential of yoga.  I could hear my fearless heart saying it is time to take a “pause” in my photography business after 15 years!  

     As many of you know, I have been teaching Yoga in some capacity almost as long as I have been photographing clients.  In 2019, I taught weekly classes, added private one on one clients, collaborated with other teachers creating unique workshops, leading day retreats, and co-lead a monthly Women’s Wisdom Circle while growing my photography business.  For now, it is too much to continue both photography and yoga. 
 
      A fearless heart can mean being courageous in many ways.  We don’t have to climb a mountain or jump out of an airplane.  Courage can mean facing a personal challenge or expressing something that may not come easily, or simply recognizing we are just where we are supposed to be at a given moment.  In Yoga and in life it’s about listening and not fearing or dismissing the wisdom that is radiating from the heart. Whether it be in a class when you practice a pose and feel you need to modify or express the pose more energetically, not from your ego but from your heart.  Our heart encourages self-development, love, and compassion. For others but equally as important for ourselves.
 
      I asked my students to reflect on a “fearless heart” on their mats in class, and out into the world.  I took the time to do the same. I reflected on other times when I intuitively listened and took action not letting my mind chatter get in the way. This story came to mind.  

      When I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in 2013. I was, of course, feeling all sorts of emotions but I allowed my fearless heart to emerge.  I knew how fortunate I was to have an incredibly supportive family and heard my heart say, “you are loved by so many”. Let your heart be filled and supported. Contrary to my fear and overthinking, I immediately shared my diagnosis with extended family and close friends.  I let myself be vulnerable, I never felt vulnerable in this way before. Prior to this, if I were asked “how would you handle a life-altering diagnosis? I don’t think I would have said: “ immediately share and create a tribe or healing posse.” This was a first for me to not overthink it but to hear what my heart was so gracefully expressing and take action.
 
     Is there a time you remember when you listened and followed your fearless heart?  It can be as simple (but not easy) as making a decision to choose self-care over agreeing to another commitment when you know you need time to recharge!  Consider listening to your fearless heart!  Your story will be different from mine, and that is the best part!  Write your story down and read it out loud to yourself or share it with me!

Please join me on the mat and subscribe below for my newsletter!

Peace, 
Delia
 

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