When Life Stretches You, Your Yoga and Somatic Practices Hold You

We all face those moments in life when everything feels out of control—when something happens that shakes us and pulls us into a reactive state. Whether it's a situation that causes anxiety, a fear response that tightens our chest, or the urge to fix something immediately to escape uncomfortable feelings, these moments can leave us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from our center.  

But what if there was a way to prepare for these moments before they arise? A practice that helps us not only manage difficult emotions, but also transform them into opportunities for peace and growth?  

In my experience as a yoga therapist and somatic healer, I’ve learned that the tools we use in our formal practices—like yoga, breathwork, prayer, meditation, and nervous system regulation—don’t just offer us calm during peaceful moments on the mat. They are there to serve us when life pulls us into the more challenging, messy moments too.  

A Real-Life Example of How Our Practice Helps Us Respond 

Recently, I had a powerful reminder of how our practices support us, not just in quiet, peaceful settings, but in the moments that really stretch us.  

I was at a gymnastics free-play with my toddler, simply there to play with my kid. But my attention was pulled toward a child who appeared to be alone, without an adult present to supervise them. As a parent, I felt the rush of anxiety, fear, and discomfort—the kind that tightens your chest and leaves you feeling powerless. I wanted someone else to step in and take control, to relieve me of the discomfort of not knowing what might happen.  

I took action, alerting the responsible adult, but the discomfort didn’t leave me immediately. I still felt the unease, the anxiety, and the rush of adrenaline.  

That’s when I had to ask myself: Am I going to let this situation steal my peace?

The Power of Yoga, Breathwork, and Somatic Practice in These Moments  

This is where our practices—yoga, breathwork, and somatic healing—come into play. They are more than just tools for relaxation. They are powerful practices that **reshape** our nervous system, allowing us to respond to life’s triggers with more clarity and calm.  

Each time we take a moment to slow down and breathe, we are building a sacred reservoir of peace and presence inside us.  

The more we practice these tools, the more we develop the ability to:  
✨ Pause before we react.  
✨ Stay present instead of getting caught up in fear or anxiety.  
✨ Soften instead of spiraling into overwhelm.  
✨ Trust that we can choose how we respond to challenging situations.  

Over time, yoga and somatic practices **rewire our nervous systems** to help us stay grounded in the present moment, even when life feels chaotic.  

How Consistent Practice Changes the Way We Live

I want to remind you—if you’re ever wondering whether your practice is “working,” it is. Even in those moments when you feel overwhelmed, or when your nervous system is in a heightened state, your practice is working behind the scenes to help you stay calm, present, and trusting in your ability to navigate life’s challenges.  

When we approach these moments with a practice that has already shaped us, we choose peace instead of letting our emotions take control.  

If you feel like you’re in a season of life where you need extra support to deepen this work, I’m here for you. Whether it’s through 1:1 coaching, guided yoga and somatic healing sessions, or simply connecting with you over a conversation, I’m ready to offer support.  

Join Me at the Next Nourished & Whole Retreat 

If you’re feeling the pull to deepen your practice and reconnect to yourself, consider joining me for the next Nourished & Whole Retreat. In this retreat, we’ll explore yoga, breathwork, and somatic healing in a supportive environment to help you nurture your nervous system and fill your sacred reservoir.  

🧘‍♀️ Nourished & Whole Retreat with Chef Tanner marino
📅 Sunday, March 23rd | 3-6pm at GIFT Counseling Center for Wellness

Step away, find balance and feel renewed at our retreat.

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