Mother Daughter Wisdom

It takes a very strong person to be a student of one your children, and it takes an equally strong person to step into the role of teacher for one of your parents. Enter Michelle Robinson, owner of Breathing Space Bedford and her mother, Liz Hicks.

When Michelle began teaching yoga, Liz knew nothing of the practice but felt compelled to support her daughter’s new career path and so, attended a class. Three years later, Liz herself has gone down the teacher’s path, sharing her own brilliance with the world.

Part of our Breathing Space protocol for upholding consistently high standards of teaching is for studio leaders to observe their teachers in action and provide feedback. What is most uncommon however is for a studio leader to observe and offer feedback to her own mother!

In Michelle’s humble fashion, she began her feedback by expressing gratitude to the woman who gave her life. She acknowledged the tremendous sacrifices that her mother has made to provide her with the best possible chance for a fulfilling life. After devoting her entire adult life to nurturing the seeds of her offspring, Liz is now receiving the fruits of her labor, through the wisdom of her daughter.

When we commit to growing and fulfilling our purpose in this life, we never quite know what shape or form the teacher will take. It may require us to rise above the limiting perspective of our egos to accept the teachings, even when the message comes from our own children. Our children may live in younger bodies, but we can’t assume they have younger souls.

Studies show that parents are the giants in a child’s life, in terms of influence. And the most potent relationship is between mother-daughter. What we are called to do in yoga, through the practice of Swadhyaya is to reflect on those big relationships (healthy or unhealthy), take the learning and the love and leave the rest behind.

As Michelle and Liz continue to transcend traditional familial roles in order to fulfill their potential, let’s look for the lessons available to us from our parents and children. This week, with an open, curious mind and a humble, grateful heart, I invite you to view your family members in a new light. The lessons you glean may surprise you.

Warmly,

Jenny