Last year, during my research into retirement transition I discovered a tool I’m calling 10 Lives. The tool has you list 10 lives you’d like to live and then “Pick one and just do it for a month.” It was a way of trying to overcome one of my fears with starting something – my fear of committing to something long term. I choose to take up yoga.
I had been given a yoga mat about 5 years ago as a Christmas present from my husband when I mentioned I was interested in trying yoga. Yes, he listened and yes, that was 5 years ago. So this has been on my possibilities list for a long time. It fit into the “what are you waiting for?” conversation I’ve had with myself. Besides the fear of commitment, I was also afraid of looking incompetent as a beginner – an “old” beginner whose body cannot do a lot of those yoga moves.
But the one-month commitment gave me a feeling of “OK, I can do anything for one month!” Even look bad.
I bought a one-month pass and took a 50+ class to start. And went back to another class, even though I felt completely uncomfortable the first class. And then went back for a third. I had bought a full month and was not going to waste the money! My goal that first month became to do 3-4 classes a week, trying different classes and instructors. Once I make a commitment, I’m a very strong follow-through person!
So after a month of yoga….. I am sticking with it. My new year’s goal is 2 classes a week. I’m more comfortable in class, but also know I need to find instructors that deal well with beginners as well as have a more “nurturing personality”. And I need to listen to my own body. I’m continuing the 50+ class, and sometimes I take a very challenging class with a wonderfully nurturing instructor. I’m still very much a beginner, but even in 2 months now of classes, I can see an improvement in my flexibility and strength.
So, now I need to pick another “10 Lives” life and commit to it for one month! Which should it be? (February is the month.)
retirementtransition 
The 10 lives idea is so so cool. What an excellent way to stick a toe in and try something out!
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That is so cool. 👍What a great Idea. I need to think about this and give it a try.
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Let me know what “life” you pick!
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blockquote, div.yahoo_quoted { margin-left: 0 !important; border-left:1px #715FFA solid !important; padding-left:1ex !important; background-color:white !important; } Hi PatSo delighted to see your post! I love the idea of trying things out for a month (no long term commitment but enough time to get over the start-up hiccups.) Delighted you found a yoga approach that works for you.(I also wrote you another email about next Friday 😄.)Roberta
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I’m so happy to read that yoga has worked out so well for you! I’ve taken a few classes, but haven’t kept it up. I know that it would be a great way to maintain my flexibility. Looking forward to reading about your next life!
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Now that I said I would pick another, I’ve got to do it. A great way to stick to your goals – tell others who will check up on you!
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Hi, Pat – I LOVE the “10 Lives” idea….and am so glad that you began with yoga. I attended my first yoga class shortly after I retired (19 months ago) and have been a fan ever since. I am not remotely coordinated (understatement), and I had no previous experience. Still, as you say, there are numerous types of classes for everyone, and most instructors encourage each participant to “be where there are at” with no right or wrong. I look forward to reading how this continues to go for you.
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I’ve been pretty good of continuing 2 classes a week, and I can definitely feel a difference in flexibility and strength so think I’ll keep it up. I’m hoping February is my “jewelry maker month”. Its another thing I’ve wanted to try and not. What will you try for one month?!?
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