Tips For Success

#1 Be kind to yourself.

In my opinion, ‘No pain, no gain’ is totally not right. Yes, something can be a challenge. Yes, it can be hard. But if you hate what you’re doing, you’re not succeeding.

When you’re working on alignment and movement, one of the biggest barriers is the desire to do everything perfectly. Moving better takes time to learn, and you’re going to make mistakes along the way. The more you bring a sense of self-compassion, kindness and nurturing to your practice, the better changes you will be able to make!

If you feel like you need to force something, then you’re trying too hard. This can be lots of work, but it’s not about creating strain and tension.

#2 Write down your questions

You’ll probably notice that you have questions as you work through the exercises. Write these down as they come up. Once you’re done your session, you can check the tutorials, ask your question on the Facebook group or in the comments, or save your question for the next live call.

#3 Remember that movement is learned in layers

Movement is really complicated! You’ll likely find that your brain can only absorb so many new things at once. That’s just part of the process!

For example, you can do a calf stretch without paying attention to any boundaries. Or you can do it with straight feet. Or you can do it with straight feet and your weight in your heels. Which is ‘best’? NONE! All of these variations is valuable. Typically as you advance you’ll think of more and more things, but not always – there’s lots of goodness in doing things loosey-goosey, as well as in being super technical.

So if you’re feeling like there’s too much to think about, no worries. Just focus on doing as much as your brain and body are ready for right now!

The flip side of this is that if you’ve done lots of movement work, you can add layers to any exercise by paying attention to more things.

Just make sure you not missing out by adding too much complexity. Less is often more – it’s better to do a few things well than lots of things badly!

And either way, don’t stress and remember to be kind to yourself!

#4 Own your own practice

I offer you these sessions in a certain order so they build on the previous sessions and help you build your skills. But you’re in charge! If you want to work on your shoulders on a foot week, then go for it, or if you want to take extra time to work on your feet, do that too. I’ve build this program so it works in 10 minutes a day, but go ahead and do more than one session if you have time and feel like it. As we go on, I’ll make suggestions for which sessions go well together.

#5 Be committed

We’re all busy. But if your life is so busy that you can’t find 10 minutes most weeks, then perhaps movement isn’t one of your priorities. That’s fine – just acknowledge it and focus on something else.

However, if you’re sure you want to move and enjoy the benefits of movement, then I suggest you commit to taking 10 minutes a day, at least 3 times a week, just for yourself. Create a space and time that’s free of distractions, and know that you’re making an amazing commitment to yourself and your future wellbeing.

#6 But not THAT committed

Some days it’s not going to happen. This happens to all of us. If a day is too busy, then give yourself permission to have a rest-day and move on. No guilt, no stress, no shame.

#7 But still committed

If you’re having a hard time staying motivated, here are some tips that might help you:

• Carve out space! I can’t stress this enough. If I don’t move first thing in the AM, it might not happen once my day gets going. If mornings aren’t your favourite, do it later – whatever work best for you. But put it in your schedule and make it a priority. You are worth it!!!
• Do you feel bored? Then write down the exercises or watch the video on silent, and listen to a podcast, an audiobook, or some great music while you do your Take10.
• Find some inspiration. Head to the Facebook community and tell us what you’re struggling with. You’re not the only one, and we’re here to help you!

#8 Get some equipment and make yourself a space

You don’t need a lot of things to help you move better. But I’m pretty sure you’ll really love having your own dedicated movement space and some basic equipment. Check out the equipment list for my suggestions, and check the notes for each Take10 to find out what you need that week.