To be in your flow state is to “be fully immersed in a feeling of energised focus, full involvement and enjoyment in the process of the activity”.
Twenty-twenty-two has been a year of transformation and growth, which began with the big decision of taking a leave of absence from university and immersing myself within the practice of yoga, rock climbing and skateboarding. Towards the end of 2021, I experienced burn-out and had zero energy left in my creative tank for my uni projects. Fortunately, I was was given the option to take a years leave of absence. I decided that it would be best for me to reset and develop a firmer foundation in all areas of my life, and find Hana again in the process. We cannot give to others or ourselves when our cups are empty…
The beginning of this year was rocky and the unknown felt uncertain. I had made the decision to make the change, and now I needed to begin the road to wholeness. Insecurities arose and I felt a little bit lost to be honest. I realised that I needed to focus on the basics of what truly set my soul on fire.
The very first time I truly experienced the feeling of being in a state of flow was after a few months of focusing my energy and time on rock climbing, yoga and skating. I felt completely free from all stress and felt more alive and in tune with myself both physically and emotionally.
Even though life threw obstacles my way, I seemed to be able to navigate them so much better and was slowly feeling more in control of who Hana actually is.
This has been an enormous gift to me and one I wish to share as much as I can through “Flow Stories”.
Yoga and Mindfulness
In 2016, I discovered that I have Scheuermann's disease (kyphosis) as well as scoliosis. The option was to either have a back brace from my neck to tail bone or have a structured, intense program. This lead me to attending constant physio appointments and pilates classes. From there, my back became stronger and I felt like the pain I experienced slowly eased as time progressed. Organically, I discovered yoga through the physio practice. There was an element that stood out to me with the practice of yoga and meditation. The more I implemented it into my life, the more aware I became of my body and mind.
A few months later, I went to get my second round of x-rays done. I did not expect the results I received. Somehow, I managed to reverse my scoliosis and maintain the percentage of my Scheuermann's without it increasing in percentage. This, for me, was the turning point of it all. I knew that there was so much more to discover about the ancient philosophy and the practice of yoga and meditation - its significance and healing properties are beyond comprehension. There is so much to explore… so much to discover.
From having a first hand experience of the benefits of the yoga practice, I was determined to start studying. In 2018, I completed my first 200 hour Yoga Teacher Training with Jim Harington. I will forever be grateful to have been exposed to this way of life. The implementation of the practice of yoga into my life has guided me to the person that I want to strive to become.
Rock Climbing
The concept of a constant physical and mental challenge versus massive reward for the self, enticed me. Time would fly by as I puzzled my way throughout the bouldering and sport climbing sections. The gym became a safe space - my mind felt free and clear for the first time in a long time. For the majority of 2022, I went to the City Rock gym. I found that by immersing myself in that space, I became more focused and present not just in rock climbing, but in life in general. Navigating the routes trained my brain to stop, breathe and think of solutions in a logical manner to get to where I needed to be.
I have realised that injury is a part of sport when you exert yourself beyond your comfort zone. At some point in the year, I attempted a route toward the end of my climbing session. My body was tired which resulted in me not having enough momentum and strength to jump to the next hold. I fell to the ground on my arm and fractured my elbow. Even though it was frustrating to experience a hold up in my (self) training, I realised that it was all part of the process and it has only taught me more about my body and mind. I discovered alternative ways of exercising and delved into my meditation practice and cold water exposure. I have now incorporated these elements more into my life too.
Skateboarding
From there, I discovered my love for surf-skating again. My dad taught me how to skate when I was younger. There is something about carving that fills my heart. I discovered that every time I got onto my board, nothing else mattered… just that present moment, carving away on my board, with a massive smile inevitably accompanying me!
One aspect that has been prominent in skating, is falling. As I started to push myself out of my comfort zone, my chances of falling became greater - wipeouts were a regular occurrence. However, when I eventually got the movements right after many attempts, the feeling of gratification was beyond comprehension. The process of falling is not only humbling, but also empowering. The concept of getting up off the ground and carrying on has taught me to not take life too seriously.
Twenty-twenty three has approached - A Fresh, New Chapter.
I read something the other day by an unknown author:
2023 does not exist yet - you are going to create this year and give it life with your own desires, new projects, thoughts, meaningful words, feelings and actions. Until today, 2023 has no shape - You have the power to determine how you want to mould the shape of your year. The lessons you learned in 2022 have just made you more aware about where you feel your need to grow, change direction, or simply be…if that is your wish.
Ultimately, it all to create your flow state
With all my heart, HAPPY 2023!