Movement Mindset - Versatility

 

Versatility is "being open to new experiences and challenges, and actively seeking out opportunities to learn and grow. It also requires a willingness to step outside of one's comfort zone and take on tasks that may be unfamiliar or challenging." Embodying Versatility  

I get bored frequently, it could be a little bit because of my ADHD or that my interests change with different phases of my life or even with the seasons. I love trying new things and I thrive when there is change or when I'm given an opportunity to do something new. I believe that having a versatility mindset allows you to embrace challenges, go with the flow/be flexible, cultivate curiosity, have self-aware of personal strengths or areas of weakness and be open to learning from others. 

Within my health journey as well as my professional growth, I've embraced the concept of versatility to achieve my goals and develop further knowledge and experiences. I had no idea where to start when I came to the realization that I needed something different with health habits to truly make a change. The challenge was my lack of knowledge about healthy eating, healthy movement and a generally healthy lifestyle. I researched some options that were not highly intensive financially or time consuming. I came across 2B Mindset & Ilana Muhlstein, I read her book and participated in group zoom meetings that discussed healthy eating and challenges that prevented healthy habits. I took vulnerability to speak in these groups about my challenges and be open to new ideas and new ways of cooking and eating. I had to develop a huge self-awareness of my triggers that detoured my goals. 

Snacking was my weakness!!! School's are notorious for having food around, and not the best food. I would eat when I wasn't really hungry, but when I was being impulsive, bored or stressed. One of the best quotes that came out of my time of doing Weight Watchers (unsuccessfully) was STRESSED is DESSERTS backwards. That was totally me!!! 2B Mindset was completely different; I didn't need to count points or calories, but I did need to journal my food (and be honest about it) and focus on water first, veggies most, and weigh yourself everyday. Drinking enough water is still a bit of a struggle for me, but veggies and lean proteins are my go to's each day. I also weight myself everyday. Not in a compulsive way, but to track data and recognize patterns. I write my weight on my bathroom mirror with a dry erase marker and notice patterns in weight loss or gain and adjust my meals to ensure I'm getting my appropriate nutrients, but also allowing me to enjoy indulgences. Which included flexibilities within meal planning and not depriving myself of food, events or the occasional "snack". 

I also needed to learn how to move my body more consistently, with enjoyment. After my son was born, thirteen years ago, I did Curves, which combined cardo with weight training and I felt great, as well as lost weight and I had a community of women that I felt empowered and encouraged by. Unfortunately, there are very few Curves open anymore. But I knew I needed a similar atmosphere to motivate me to move mindfully and with purpose. I started with free online workouts. Several that I have found beneficial, that has also combined functional and practical workouts that can easily be done at home are: @fitbymik , @yogawithadrine and Joel Freeman. From these online classes, I fell in love with yoga and lifting weights. I wanted to fully immerse myself and learn more, but also find a community where I felt welcome and could continue learning. 

To embrace versatility you have to realize that learning is a lifelong process. It is important to continuously learn and develop new skills. I love reading, listening to podcasts [The Uplifted Yoga Podcast, Balance365, and Mel Robbins Podcast] and learn on my timeline, when I have the available time. That is when I discovered My Vinyasa Practice. I started my 200 Yoga Teacher Training, which allowed me to understand the background and history of yoga, as well as the Eight Limbs of Yoga , which go beyond just the poses, and really making yoga a way of living. 

I frequently welcome change in my life. Change is necessary for growth and development. Being a champion of change means being open to new opportunities and experiences. It means being willing to step out of your comfort zone and try new things. You can learn new skills, gain new perspectives, which allow you to become a more versatile individual. 

Weight lifting and yoga are my go to exercises, but I've made it a point to try new movements and classes that keep it interesting and challenge new parts of my body. I save videos from Instagram or Pintrest and try new machines at Planet Fitness. Currently I'm loving the Smith Machine, Hack Squat Machine, Cable Machines and Leg Press Machines. However, I was still missing that connection to others with similar passions. So I tried several different yoga studios and types of yoga classes: Hot Yoga @ Aris Yoga, specializing in Bikram Yoga, hot mat Pilates and power yoga with weights. Hatha Yoga @ Yoga Lounge with several types of yoga classes, even ropes, hands on alignment and restorative yoga. Reformer Pilates @ Happy Hour Yoga where I learned that going slower and having more control can work my body and mind to a higher level of concentration and intuitive understanding. I've even tried yoga with alpacas with the instructors with Sweet Feet Yoga. Later on this summer I'm attending a SUP yoga class at Three Oaks in Crystal Lake. I truly embrace the idea of versatility and adaptability as a strength. I welcome new opportunities with open arms. Being versatile also allows you to honestly live in the moment and match the vibe of the current situation. 

There are so many opportunities in life to step outside of yourself personally or professionally. Majority of these activities I do solo. I don't go with a group of people, I go by myself, I meet new people. I put myself out there and see what happens. Professionally, I submit proposals for speaking at conferences (and even get some accepted - ILASCD: Pump Up Primary and Wisconsin Family Ties: Children Come First), I attend workshops or webinars (I See You Mama) that seem interesting, join book studies and actively volunteer for organizations that I believe in such as: Girls on the Run where I coach girls in 3rd-5th grade and recently have become a volunteer with NAMI - McHenry County where I'll be presenting on the importance of mental health awareness in our schools and teaching yoga during drop in sessions for teens & young adults. 

I am more than a mom, wife, or elementary principal. I have interests, hobbies and a life outside of my home and school. I am unlocking my inner chameleon!!! Embracing Versatility within a Movement Mindset is one of the ways to make change sustainable by being adaptable, resourceful and responsive to different situations and accepting that change is a positive opportunity to grow.