Does the talent come naturally or have you worked hard to develop this skill or talent? Does your talent or skill allow you opportunities in or outside the classroom? If so, what are they and how do they fit into your schedule?
Wobbling, I attempted to balance on one foot, practicing my newfound favorite pose: vrikshasana or tree pose. Watching my mom gracefully practicing yoga in the peaceful afternoon sunlight planted the seeds of the start of my yoga journey at a young age. Starting with a desire to imitate my mom, I practiced consistently, improving my balance and becoming more grounded as my roots grew deep. Just like a tree that obtains stability through its root system, yoga established the foundation for my growth, becoming an integral part of my life.
As I deepened my practice through discipline and dedication, yoga became more than just a series of emulated movements. The practice took on more significance until it became an unshakable part of my daily routine. Each inhale and exhale strengthened me, giving me the resilience to navigate stressful situations. During times of anxiety and uncertainty , I turned to the meditative aspect of yoga as it helped me achieve a tranquil state. Yoga became the trunk of my life, supporting me in overcoming life’s challenges.
Earning my youth yoga teacher certification gave me the incredibly fulfilling opportunity to extend the branches of my tree and share my practice with children. In addition to physical fitness and agility, I offered them an inner resource from which to draw strength, resilience, and peace at a pivotal age. I watched students enter the year nervous, lacking in the confidence to take up space on the mat. However, practicing yoga regularly in a comfortable space provided them with the skills to combat these mental blocks. Hence, I take pride in being the conduit through which kids can achieve physical and mental well-being.
Ready to bear fruit, I am committed to sharing yoga with a broader demographic as I enter the college community. With this skill, I have grown into a grounded individual, committed to trekking the path of growth while teaching others to do the same. As I enter a new chapter of life, yoga will continue to provide a solid foundation, allowing me to grow and flourish with resilience and compassion so that one day, I can nurture a beautiful forest in my community.