December 9th, 2013
Yesterday was a cold, snowy day in DC. I, along with a small group of intrepid yogis, attended a class on inversions and folds. It was a great class – very inwardly focused yet challenging. We did a lot of heart-openers, pushing our chests and hearts out, bending our upper backs and feeling very flexible – or not so flexible – depending on our individual situations.
At the end of the class, the teacher – a great guy with a subtly profound way of talking – gave us a heads-up. It went something like this: “It’s cold outside. And while you just spent an hour opening up your hearts, your going to step outside and want to protect it. You’ll grab your coat and pull it into your chest. Your shoulders will hunch up and your heart will go inward. You’ll want to keep your heart warm and safe. But I suggest that you try something different. I suggest you keep your heart open.”
I thought to myself, “What a profound suggestion.” Don’t we all want to protect ourselves – both physically and emotionally? We’ve been hurt before and are afraid of being hurt again. But if we don’t make ourselves vulnerable – with the right supports and preparation – we can’t experience what life is like with an open heart. And I for one think life with an open heart is more satisfying.
If you’re looking for a therapist or counselor in Dupont Circle, Washington, DC, feel free to contact Mike Giordano, LICSW at 202-460-6384 or Mike.Giordano.MSW@gmail.com.