I’ve honestly come to believe this is pretty much what it’s all about – this, and learning to find gratitude for everything you can, no matter how small it seems.

If you’re looking for an easy way to begin work on this, try Yin yoga. It’s one of the most beautiful and (eventually) relaxing practices I’ve ever found – but don’t be fooled into believing that it’s easy. It is incredibly challenging, especially if you are not used to sitting with yourself and your own discomfort. That’s why it is so wonderful. Not only does it give your body a chance to relax and release into a deeper stretch, it gives your mind a chance to relax and release everything that you might usually carry. You might even come to some deep realizations about yourself and your life.

This is just one example of a practical way in which you can begin to expand your ability to handle discomfort. You can do it today, even right now! There’s a plethora of classes available for free on YouTube. But why do we want to expand here? Why do we even try to lean into discomfort?

Well, because that is how we push our edges towards development and growth. That is how we become better versions of ourselves. We confront everything that we’ve kept suppressed inside with love and compassion, allowing it to come to the surface despite our resistance. When we do this, we are better able to deal with the inevitable discomfort that confronts us in life. We can deal with difficult situations more effectively, and give ourselves and others more kindness. It’s a pretty beautiful shift.

I’ve learned to become curious, even excited, when I start to feel uncomfortable in my own life. It’s a cue that I’m encountering an opportunity to grow! I’ve also become aware that if I don’t take the chance to expand now, then it will come up again… and again and again, until I finally give in. Why not just try to learn on the first go-around instead?

Expanding your ability to handle discomfort is a crucial life skill. You can try having small, difficult conversations that perhaps you’re avoiding, then moving into those that have higher stakes as you become more comfortable with the idea. You can try other therapeutic activities like cold plunges and sauna sessions. You can even start by simply journaling to yourself on topics that perhaps you usually fear digging into. There’s plenty of opportunity.

You’ve got this. I know you want to better your life and to expand yourself as a person. I believe you can do anything you decide to do. Sending you love.