Openness to Learning and Change
Humans are creatures of routine. Our habitual brains are hardwired to do the same thing day in and day out so we can set realistic expectations and don’t have to fear the unknown. For some, each day could be consist of a routine of waking up, hitting the gym, going to work, making dinner, watching TV and then going to bed. Whether your daily routine is positive or negative, staying in your comfort zone limits how much you can grow as a person when you’re not met with the challenge of overcoming something new.
During the first week of our Fall Challenge, we are focusing on the concept of “being open to learning and change” and why it’s important to explore new class varieties, instructors, educational material, and even switching up a part of your daily routine to make space for learning
Surprise Your Muscles with Variety
Sure, your class routine may feel comfortable because you know what to expect from your instructor and the layout of the class, but have you considered trying a new class format? Switching up your exercise program and experiencing new varieties can be fun, but it also can improve your workout results.
You see, research has shown that individuals who have modified their workouts every two-weeks over an eight-week period were more inclined to stick with their workout regimen compared to others who never switched it up.
It’s also great for your muscles and weight-loss. When you continually do the same workout, your body gets used to it and becomes adept, meaning you’ll burn fewer calories when you workout. This is why change is important. By sprinkling a new class format or new instructor into your routine at The Ballet Physique, you will renew the challenge for your mind and body in a way that will keep your muscles guessing.
Not to mention, the benefits you will feel from pushing yourself into something new can change your fostered approach to life.
Change Up Your Daily Routine
As we discussed before, we are creatures of habit. And while you might be comfortable in your current routine or maybe you have found yourself in a rut, making a few small changes in your daily activities can leave you feeling refreshed and energized to take on your day.
Not a morning person? Try waking up 15 to 30 minutes earlier this week. You might find that even a 30-minute head start to your day could leave you feeling less stressed or scattered.
Or maybe you consider saying “yes” to something you would typically say “no” to this week. You might feel slammed with work and want to say no to the invite to happy hour or dinner, but by saying yes, you can experience a night of good conversation instead of lounging on the couch watching TV.
Listen To Something That Inspires You
For so many of us, it’s easy to get caught up scrolling on Facebook reading about what our friends and family are doing, the news, or even watching silly videos. Yes, it’s nice to feel that you’re in the “know,” but sometimes our brains crave to absorb quality material over the surface level content we find on social media.
This week we encourage you to try and find a piece of material that inspires you. Do you have a podcast that challenges your way of thinking? Perhaps you have a new book you’ve been dying to read but haven’t had time. Think about turning off the radio on your drive to work and listening to an audio version of that book or a podcast episode that will fill the time of your commute.
Instead of scrolling through Instagram, watch a TED Talk about a topic that motivates and encourages you to reach your next set of goals. You could also consider shutting off the news or reality TV show and watching a documentary on Netflix about a new topic you’ve never explored. Go the extra mile by opening your mind to ideas that you don’t necessarily agree with. While watching, reading, or listening, try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes.
Whatever it is that you decide to immerse your brain in, make it meaningful and something that will leave a lasting impression on you through the next 28 days.
Decide To Let Something Go
The fall and the changes in the leaves are the perfect reminders that when you let something go, it can be beautiful. As humans, we’re inclined to make mistakes and then feel the need to carry a heavy burden. However, holding on to feelings of guilt, stress, and self-doubt can weigh us down and keep us from reaching our greatest potential.
This week focus on forgiving yourself, making amends or moving forward from something that made you feel less than adequate. We can’t change the past and resentment and unwillingness to forgive will keep you locked in a time warp, preventing you to live in the present. Use this opportunity to confront whatever it is that is holding you back in life whether you write it down or challenge it head-on.
While change can feel scary, don’t let it intimidate you. By pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and experiencing something new, you will meet the side of you that is strong and compassionate, but also someone who will be able to overcome difficult challenges in your future.
We hope that during the first week of our “28-Mind Body Tune Up” you will find time to soak up knowledge like a sponge. Go out there and absorb new classes and content. Rewire your brain into new patterns of thinking. And ultimately, be ready to take on the world.
