Introduction
WHY the WOBBLE in life? Well, I was in my good friend Mary Ortenburger’s Yoga class one day, and she encouraged us along the lines of “allow the wobble, it’s how your brain knows where the body is and how to eventually balance itself in space.” It hit me…this is KEY for me in my recovery so I wanted to share it with you in the hopes it might help you, too.
In the dance of life, each step, stumble, and wobble is a part of this grand choreography that shapes who we are. Often, if you’re anything like me, we can perceive struggles and challenges as impediments. But what if they are the very essence of our growth? What if they are absolutely necessary? This blog explores the concept of “productive struggle” and its pivotal role in the holistic transformation of our body, mind, heart, and soul.
The Brain’s Dance: Neuroplasticity and Learning
Our brain, a marvel of nature, thrives on challenges. Neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to rewire and adapt, is at the heart of learning and growth. When we encounter new experiences, especially those that challenge us, the structure of our brain literally changes. The hippocampus, a region associated with learning and memory, becomes more active. As we wrestle with new ideas or skills, our brain forges new connections, strengthening its ability to adapt and learn as it strengthens the myelin around our nerves.
Productive Struggle: The Art of Wobbling Forward
Productive struggle is akin to a dance where balance is constantly negotiated. When a child learns to walk, each fall and wobble is integral to mastering the skill. Similarly, when we confront complex problems or emotional challenges, our ‘mental balance’ is tested. This struggle is not just inevitable; it’s necessary. It’s in these moments of imbalance that our brain learns, grows, and orients itself towards stability.
Embracing Discomfort: The Path to Transformation
- Our natural instinct is to shy away from pain and discomfort. However, one of my favorite anonymous quotes reminds us, “In order to accept who you are, you can’t hate the experiences that shaped you.” This acceptance is the first step in the body element of the 6-step transformation method. By creating space in our lives for pain, hurt, and struggle, we avoid bracing against them, which only serves to keep us stuck.
Kintsugi: Finding Beauty in the Breaks
The Japanese art of Kintsugi offers a powerful metaphor for this process. In Kintsugi, broken pottery is mended with gold, highlighting and valuing the fractures instead of hiding them. This art form teaches us to embrace our breaks, wounds, and imperfections as part of our unique story and, in fact, to beautify and honor them. Our struggles, much like the golden seams of Kintsugi, are what make us beautifully human.
Practical Steps for Embracing Productive Struggle
💫 Mindfulness and Awareness: Cultivate a practice of mindfulness to become aware of your struggles without judgment.
💫 Reframe Challenges: Learn to reframe your thoughts, and view as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.
💫 Emotional Acceptance: Allow yourself to feel, accept, and validate your emotions, understanding that they are part of your journey and provide important information.
💫 Build Strength: Develop strong coping skills by gradually exposing yourself to challenges and learning from setbacks and the inspiration of others.
💫 Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself during difficult times, understanding that struggle and pain is a part of human growth.
💫 Reach Out: Connect with other people who understand what you’re going through and will be willing to accompany you on your journey.
Conclusion: Dancing with Life
In conclusion, “Love the Wobble” is not just about embracing struggle; it’s about recognizing it as an essential rhythm in the dance of life and your personal development. By acknowledging and valuing our productive struggles, we not only enhance our neuroplasticity and learning but also embark on a path of healing the self-doubt and building the self-trust that encompasses our body, mind, heart, and soul. As we journey through life, let’s remember that each step, no matter how wobbly, leads us towards growth and transformation.
Connect with Me
Follow me on Socials @shannanblummft or check out my coaching services today!
In Health & Wholeness,
Shannan
PS (If this resonates with you, drop a comment below or email me your feedback – I answer every email!)
