The December Student of the Month was nominated by staff instructor, Katie here’s her nomination story of Eastown/Forest Hills Student, Robert N:
Robert is a REG-U-LAR. You will probably recognize his friendly smile in Eastown and Forest Hills. He is definitely committed to growth and this practice.
A month ago, a conversation that we had reminded me AGAIN of how great he is, and how great this practice is – how it teaches us something new every day and in every season. The gist of the conversation was about how he DID NOT finish the 30-Day Dare. When I asked him about it, he said his body really needed a break and he took two days off – on purpose – because he was really LISTENING to his body. Yes, he missed the dare by TWO classes, and I have never been more inspired by a yogi who didn’t complete the Dare as I am of this guy.
To some people, growth is finally conquering a tough pose (which I have definitely seen Robert do this past year gracefully). To others, I would even say MANY of us, at various times and in various ways, growth is recognizing when you need to slow down, or when you need a break. “Real Yoga,” in physical practice and in life, is learning how to truly listen to and take care of yourself – push when you need to push and be gentle when the pushing becomes counterproductive. Finding balance can be the most difficult kind of yoga.
Robert has shown what this practice is truly about. Cultivating growth through practice. I’ve seen him grow immensely these past few years. By not completing the Dare, he is actually LIVING his yoga. That is so inspiring and exciting!! We are so lucky to have Robert as part of the Funky Buddha community!!
—Katie
