The first time I heard the term “morning constitutional” was in some old-timey movie. I was instantly fond of it.
Throughout the long road of recovery these past couple of years, I have started my mornings by taking a walk. Even in the hospital, I was up and about, towing the IV tower along. On the most difficult days, the most I could manage was a slow, overcautious shuffle.
Staying within the range of comfort, fighting the temptation to push beyond the zone of comfort, I made it my daily practice. Even in the most tired and uninspired phase, I kept the commitment.
As I felt better, I found myself waking up earlier and exploring further. I’m up before the sun, getting acquainted with the denizens of daybreak . . . and their dogs.
As I traveled further down the road to recovery, I picked up the pace of my wake-up wanders without any urgency or determination. It was only when willpower overruled ease that I would overdo it — yet another opportunity to learn to listen to myself or suffer the consequences.
Progress happens at its own pace. Patience comes to those who wait.
This morning started with a steady stroll and, before I knew it, I was moving along with a steady stride.
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Responses:
susan-fraser -September 24, 2021
I’m inspired by that gentle persistence Larry. 3 years post major back surgery. ATM and walking.been my pathway and a true teacher like the floor. If I’ve done too much with trying a hill it says. No slow down. Sit a while under a tree look out. I’m just not good at routine. And yes I will try again to Safeguard a time each day Making habits that support us is the way just never been good at regularity. Lesson for my 70’s ! Go well. Greetings from. Australia
Larry Goldfarb -September 23, 2021
Thanks, Dawne! I'm not the most patient person either. That's why I think that my becoming a Feldenkrais teacher is proof that God/the universe has a sense of humor. ;-)
Larry Goldfarb -September 24, 2021
Hello Liz - I had no idea you'd had to face medical challenges as well. Certainly can understand the struggle between taking care of yourself and needing to make a living! We all get lost along the way. It's part of the journey; indeed, it seems to be part of finding your way. And it's why we need each other! Onward. Together, Larry
linda-rulli -September 24, 2021
Larry, You haven't heard from me in a while, but I always follow and appreciate your blogs more than you know. It's so good to know you are once again on the mend. You are one of my most precious "long-distance" mentors, so I'm sending you prayers for continued health. We need you around in our Feldy world - and the world in general! Long-distance energizing hugs, Linda
dawne-roy Roy -September 23, 2021
This is so insightful! I am very appreciative of the sharing! Patience is definitely not my virtue... at least when it is about me!! Why is it easier to have patience with others but not oneself?? Love the blog Larry!
Larry Goldfarb -September 24, 2021
Merci bien, Moira!
meryl Rubin -September 24, 2021
Good! I'm so glad.
bonnie-kissam -September 23, 2021
My love to you Larry G -- Get those sunrises!
Larry Goldfarb -September 24, 2021
Thanks, Bonnie!
Moira Bayne -September 24, 2021
Glad to hear it Larry! Courage, mon ami!
Liz Albright -September 24, 2021
Larry- my heart is with you sending a joined pulse. I thank you for sharing your journey and can relate on so many levels! I have traveled medical problems and the aftermath over the past 2 years... Achalasia... swallowing problems... and recovery... More currently... my work on hold ...and diving into Feldenkrais studies in my 4th graduating year with Aliza Stewart Baltimore 5. I missed the artificial floor segment when you were a guest instructor due to my illness and surgery. It's a tricky time. navigating moving forward... everything so new and in the openness of recreating my life (previously as a pediatric OT) I feel all the patterns of confusion and fear from deep formative experiences. Kinda sucks... I am just trying to move forward but feeling the weight of incomplete healing. How to give myself time?? Not to mention that I need to make a living! Sorry for the digression and thank for listening..... REALLY- I wanted to let you you that you are LOVED by ME... and I feel joined to you through a struggle and inspiration (as I project into our experience) moving in the direction of integration with attention- awareness... even if get lost on the way.
Larry Goldfarb -September 23, 2021
Thank you, Meryl!
Larry Goldfarb -September 24, 2021
Good to hear from you, Linda! Thank you for your ongoing support & encouragement.
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