The unexpected

In my work with kids at school, we have started to teach them about "expected" and "unexpected" behavior, so that they can learn more about social rules, and about how others feel when they respond in an unexpected way (like tantrums, anger, blurting out, etc). The kids can also think through possible responses that they can choose when something out of the ordinary happens, so that they are better prepared to handle changes and disappointments.

I started thinking about this idea and how we can learn more about our own reactions and emotions when we are on our yoga mats. Many yoga postures are rather bizarre and unexpected, and as a beginning student, many of the asanas look impossible or beyond our capacity.When we first try to move our bodies in brand new ways, it can feel awkward and scary. Yet, if we keep at it and maintain an open mind and an ongoing yoga practice, soon we are doing things we never imagined.

In the Christian tradition, the entire Christmas story is "unexpected". A virgin birth, some rich kings wandering about looking for a baby that they feel compelled to bring gifts to...it's all pretty out of the ordinary!! Unexpected events get our attention. Be deliberate about paying attention, even when things are routine and ordinary. An unexpected event may be just around the corner. Think about how you want to respond to the unexpected.