Change can be invisible. Surprising. I was recently reminded of this when teaching boat pose in an in-person classic flow class. Boat pose (a core strengthener where you balance on your seat and lift your hands and legs into a V shape) has always felt awkward for me. It's a challenging combination of balance, flexibility, and strength. The pose was intended to activate my students' cores, something we would need later for handstand at the wall. I was so focused on the flashier goal of handstands that I almost missed my own transformation.

I was demonstrating how to use a strap to achieve boat, something I've done for a long time. My legs were fully extended along with my arms. Then I invited students to set down the strap and remain in boat pose. And as I dropped the strap, my legs STAYED straight. I was able to hold the pose as I continued to instruct students. But I had to pause and exclaim, "This is the first time I've gotten into full boat!" My students celebrated with me, and we moved on with the class.

Setting big, scary goals--like getting into handstand or publishing a book or starting a new business-- is not a bad idea. Those kinds of goals can motivate and challenge us to remain dedicated to our practice and personal growth. However we often forget to notice the small changes and transformations that take place along the way. That's why it's so important to stay focused on the journey instead of the destination. Noticing the small changes helps us to trust that the destination will come in time!

In what ways have you challenged yourself to reach higher this year? What small changes have you seen along the way? Take time to celebrate and express gratitude for those victories today!

P.S. If straightening your legs in boat pose (as above photo) is a personal goal, I invite you to trust your body and continue to lengthen your hamstrings and strengthen your quadriceps and core. Using a strap or placing one foot on the ground or wall, can also help you move toward full boat.