"I hate to free dance."

For some context, Thrive Embodied Arts is a movement and embodiment studio.

We channel energy towards discovery of sensation and pleasure in our practices rather than expected outcome. We use embodiment, like sensual freestyle movement, as a tool to surface information…

The real journey comes in what we do with that information and finding joy, bravery and comfort in the exploration. 

When we know something, especially about ourselves, we can show up critical or we can show up kind. 

My guess is that the “critic” show ups with the “planner” and the “judge”. 

We all know her. The voice that says things like… 

“This must happen in order for this to be valid. And THEN this can happen and this can happen”

Or cruel things like 

“What do you think you’re doing?”

“You’re not ____ enough.”

Brutal I know. 

Have we heard this before?

If no, maybe this isn’t the post for you, but if yes, keep reading. 

Have you ever thought, “I hate freestyle.” or “I can’t dance.” or “I could never try pole.”

I see it and hear it all the time.  

The thing is our logical brain prob aint wrong. 

Maybe we ”can’t dance”...

But here’s the thing… 

An embodiment practice tells our logical brain- the critic, the planner and the judge…to chill the fuck out. 

Do you really “hate” it, like do you really “hate freestyle”...

Or is it just challenging you and you don’t like that it’s asking you to open yourself up?

Maybe you even realize… 

When you let go, you're unable to control the outcome, which makes you feel vulnerable AF.

Valid.

But let me tell you the beautiful thing about vulnerability… 

Growth lives here. 

Vulnerability is the most authentic state. Being vulnerable means being open, for wounding but also for pleasure. Being open to the wounds of life means also being open to the bounty and beauty.

“Hating” shit is limiting.

Being open to your expansive possibility within it, is vulnerable. And vulnerability is brave as fuck.