Courage
As I typed the word “courage” I took a deep breath in and let it go. Which, sometimes when we need to muster courage that is the reaction of our breath. It’s interesting as that kind of breath; a deep breath in and a big release out, can help regulate our nervous system. That is not by accident.
Over the last week I have had several conversations, some which required courage, others which were about the topic itself. Students expressing how much courage it took for them to even try a yoga class. Holding space for friends who expressed honest feelings that are hard to say aloud. Conversations and journaling with myself that I have held back exploring because there was fear of the outcome.
We can’t always see it, but everyone around us is moving through the world with courage. Whether it’s the courage to stay present and not turn away or running towards distractions. The courage to find your voice even when it’s shaky – every time we move with courage towards our truest self we grow to be more resilient.
We often see people do courageous acts and we see it as an absence of fear, but that is not the case. Courage is feeling the fear and doing it anyway.
As a teacher and trainer, I can speak to the courage it takes to lead, to trust and speak from the heart, and to hold space for students even during the most difficult times. It isn’t always loud or bold. Sometimes it’s the soft exhale before we begin to teach, the steady breath when we forget our sequence, or the willingness to be authentic rather than perfect.
When we find the courage to show up it teaches us, the teacher, that our presence matters and that by being courageous we can empower others to find their own strength. On and off the yoga mat.
Let’s take this into our yoga practice this week:
Provide yourself a 10-15min warm-up prior to beginning any of the below suggested practice for your week.
Asana Practice: This week we will work into building our courage through our postures.
Child’s > Cat/Cow > Kneeling Upward Salute > Dancing Camel > Downward Dog > Low Lunge > Side Lunge + Twist (Repeat O/S)
Wide-Legged Forward Fold > Goddess > Low Lunge > Standing Wind Relieving > Standing Forward Fold > Downward Facing Dog (Repeat O/S)
Wide-Legged Forward Fold > Goddess > Low Lunge > Standing Wind Relieving > Halfmoon Standing Forward Fold > Downward Facing Dog (Repeat O/S)
Child’s > Prone Tree (R/L) > Prone Savasana
Close out your practice using your warm-up as your cool-down and offer yourself a 10mins Savasana for rest.
Journaling Suggestion: Write down daily what took courage. It doesn’t matter how big or how small you feel the was, if it took courage, it’s worth noting!
Remember to always practice within your own limits and take care of physical and emotional well-being.
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Join us on the floor.
Thank you to those who were part of our very first 25HR Chair Yoga Course! If you have interest in taking this course in 2026 please email me at the email below and I will add you to the list.
If exploring the practice of yoga has been on your mind our 200HR Yoga Teacher Training is an in-depth way to dive in, explore the practice, explore yourself, and have the certification to teach others to do the same. Reserve Your Spot for the next 200HR Yoga Teacher Training beginning January 2026 and become a Certified Yoga Teacher.
Questions? Email stephaniepower.ayc@gmail.com.
Let’s grow collectively,
-Stephanie
PS: Only 13 days left to be part of the Founders Discount! Our Yoga Inspiration is now bigger and better. Join the Yoga Inspiration Collective! A collective that encourages curiosity and education about yoga. This community we will explore principles that help you move from uncertainty and self-doubt to confidence and clarity. You will be part of a community that helps you become more confident and clearer, grounded and consistent in practice, present on and off your mat, connected in community.