How are we doing … Really??

We did our best to hold everything together during lock-down, as we navigated continually changing protocols and expectations. We discovered the convenience of working in yoga pants, and letting the kids stay in PJs all day. And now ..... how do we navigate being together again? How can we fit back into our schedules the activities we couldn't do for awhile? And do we even want to? And somehow it seems it's more challenging to "get along" with other people — in person. People can be so ...... !!! Or are we just tired of holding things together? 

I notice a lot of my students — children and adults — are navigating these questions. Maybe we aren't used to compromising. Maybe we expected a rainbow at the end of the Covid tunnel, and forgot that life always has its challenges. Maybe we just want a break. 

I'm lucky.  Music can be a great escape, and playing music and singing makes people happier. So my students often leave in a better mood than when they arrived. How great is that?  Even so, I'm discovering more than ever a need to create a time of transition, from the outside world to focusing on our work together. To take a deep breath, and remember that learning takes time. To give ourselves the space and grace for that time. And sometimes, recognizing that we aren't ready to focus, that we need some time to just be. 

I'll be experimenting with setting intention, creating that space for myself and my  students. Perhaps explore some transitional energy work for those who are interested. Or simply take that moment to relax - and breathe deeply.  

If you have some favorite practices, please share them with me! I'd love to hear from you.