What are you resisting?

I admit it, I drank the CrossFit KoolAid! For years, I was probably on the bandwagon of haters. I didn’t understand it. I didn’t care to. I had formed my own opinion, largely influenced by those of everyone around me. 

But here I am, about 6 months into the program. I am seeing improvements in all areas of my life. I am stronger than I ever thought possible mentally, physically and emotionally. Just over 8 months ago, I took on a new position in my professional career. A good step up and very challenging opportunity that put me back on the road. Travelling extensively and putting in long hours to get on board with the new role. I met a man in a hotel gym one morning, and immediately my back went up when he said “CrossFit is for you.”  I told him not likely, but promised I’d give it a shot. Sometimes you just need a nudge.

I tried it. And texted my new friend back, “thanks for the suggestion, I tried it, it’s not for me.” He laughed and gave me praise for at least trying. Less than 24 hours later, I texted him back, “I eat my words. I’m in love!”  He was right, it was exactly what I needed. A program that would fit my busy life, and add a lot of value to it. 

I have met one of the most incredible communities of people who support each other in and outside the box. I have pushed my own boundaries, and rebuilt my confidence in myself and my ability to brave new experiences. I found a place where I can just be. I can show up without makeup, trip over my own two feet. Fail on a movement. Try again. Fall flat on my face, and get picked back up by a peer. I am recognized for every little win, and my worst critic in the room is myself. The most advanced cross fitters in the room relive their own victories through my small victories. What is not encouraging about that? Mostly, it fits my life. 

It is just one of countless examples in life where being open to something might totally change your path and your life. Sure, it’s not hard at first. Trying anything new is uncomfortable at best. But each of those experiences is the chance to discover a piece of yourself you never knew before. 

Whatever it is you are resisting in life, see what happens when you simply breathe into it. Let the tension and resistance go, give it a shot. Sometimes it is the things we resist most that we need most. Live at edge of your comfort zone, life is short, push that edge further.

“For things to reveal themselves to us, we need to be ready to abandon our views about them. Thich Nhat Hanh”