My “aha” this week centered on my physical therapy. I am nearing the end of my sessions as my range of motion is just about normal in my shoulder.

What I found out during this process is I have “trained” my body to hold odd positions that are not healthy especially as I advance in age. All my years of holding infants/toddlers has caused me to turn my shoulders in and up. My years of bending over has caused my chin to fall slightly forward and out of good alignment. My core is weak as I use my arms, neck and shoulders to envelop children and I let my core slack. Would you notice these subtle things about my posture, probably not! Is it a good idea to correct these things, you bet! 

I am learning to correct my posture aka learning a new skill. I have experienced a range of emotions from frustration to anger and complacency. From raw emotion and tears to pride and joy in my accomplishments. Wow, I WONDER how I respect and honor children through this same pattern of learning new things?

The skills I see in my physical therapist are patience (I can set my pace with her guidance. She uses positivism, encouragement, team goal setting, perseverance, partner, relationship, and other skills specific to her role.

None of this is different for me working with a child. She helped me not only physically but in drawing a parallel between how she honored me as a learner and how I honor a child as a learner. 

What did you learn today?