Yoga off the Mat: Flexibility

Want to be more flexible? Get stronger.

As a hyper-mobile human, I've had a complex relationship with flexibility. As a yoga teacher, horse trainer, and aerial coach, I have had the opportunity to think and talk about improving flexibility more than the average People-Operations practitioner ;)

I often hear people lamenting that they want (themselves or others) to be more flexible. After all my years working in this space, the mantra I hold is: Tension is a sign of weakness.

Our bodies (and minds) do amazing things to keep us safe. In your body, if you're experiencing tension in your lower back, check in to see if your lower abdominal muscles aren't holding up their end of the deal. Our bigger stabilizing muscles often grab the extra load for muscle groups who are under-prepared. The resulting tension can't be released, or the whole thing will fall apart.

Ope, are some workplace correlations emerging? I won't tell anyone.  

Rather than pass judgment on the under-prepared muscle groups, we need to lean in and provide more attention and support. With intention, we can cultivate well-balanced systems. Where each part can work and relax as intended, allowing for greater flexibility for all involved.

My unsolicited advice is to observe (without judgment) where you're experiencing tension in your body, relationships, or organizations and see what areas might need extra support and attention to be able to function at their fullest.  

What have you observed? Drop them in the comments. Want to nerd out about how regenerative agriculture, bio-mechanics, and horse training can support us as professionals? Who wouldn't?!

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