Fear. It’s a universal human experience. Whether it’s the tremor of anxiety before a presentation, the hesitation at the edge of a diving board, or the butterflies when facing a new challenge, fear is a constant companion. For me, as an AcroYogi, this feeling is particularly tangible – especially when you factor in a healthy fear of heights! Alongside that, the fear of failure, the fear of not being good enough, and even the fear of missing out all like to join the party.
Flying, literally and metaphorically, can be daunting. Attempting new AcroYoga tricks definitely brings this to the forefront. There are moments when the fear of falling, of failing, feels overwhelming. It mirrors life itself, doesn’t it? Stepping outside your comfort zone, trying something new, always carries that element of risk. Yet, despite these fears, AcroYoga remains my absolute passion.
Why? Because within every wobble, every near-miss, and every successful flight, there’s an incredible lesson in trust. Each time I attempt a pose, and feel the security of my base or spotter, or even catch myself mid-balance, something shifts. That fear transforms into confidence, not just in my physical abilities, but in something deeper: trust in myself, in my partners, and in the flow of life itself.
This journey perfectly encapsulates the essence of a powerful quote by the insightful young poet, Erin Hanson:
“What if I fall? Oh, my darling. But what if you fly?”
Erin Hanson’s poetry, which you can explore further on her Instagram, resonates deeply with this experience. This particular quote has become an anthem for pushing boundaries, both in AcroYoga and in navigating the uncertainties of daily life. It’s a gentle nudge to consider the potential for triumph, rather than dwelling solely on the possibility of setbacks.
Expanding on this sentiment, Erin Hanson’s poem continues, painting a vivid picture of liberation:
“There is freedom waiting for you,
On the breezes of the sky”
This excerpt beautifully captures the feeling that awaits when we dare to confront our fears. Overcoming fear isn’t about becoming fearless; it’s about acknowledging the fear and choosing to move forward anyway. In AcroYoga, as a flyer, this translates to literally soaring through the air, placing your complete faith in your base to provide unwavering support. It’s trusting your body’s innate wisdom and training to guide you.
Does this mean fear vanishes entirely? Absolutely not. Fear is a natural and essential part of growth. Even experienced AcroYogis grapple with fear. A base might worry about providing adequate support; a flyer could fear not executing a move correctly. Interestingly, some individuals find the vulnerability of therapeutic flying or Thai massage, with its inherent intimacy, even more daunting than the acrobatics themselves.
And that’s perfectly okay. The key is to not let fear become a barrier, preventing you from exploring what you love or what truly calls to you. So, how do we navigate fear and cultivate the courage to fly? It starts with building trust – a multifaceted trust that involves self-awareness, clear communication with your AcroYoga partners, and a willingness to be brave.
3 Essential Tips to Cultivate Trust and Overcome Fear
1. Share Your Fears: Bring Fear into the Light
As acknowledged earlier, fear is a common thread in the human experience. Acknowledging and verbalizing your fears is the first step towards diminishing their power. Sharing your anxieties with your AcroYoga base and spotter, or even just a supportive friend, is incredibly liberating. You’ll often discover that you’re not alone in your feelings. This shared vulnerability creates a stronger sense of connection and normalizes the experience of fear. There’s wisdom in the Dutch saying, “Wat in het licht verschijnt, verdwijnt,” which translates to: “What appears in the light, disappears.” Bringing your fears into the light of conversation and acknowledgement can significantly lessen their grip.
2. Articulate Your Needs: Ask for What You Need to Feel Safe
When anxiety arises, take a moment to pause and introspect. What specific elements would enhance your sense of safety and security in this moment? Do you need a spotter for added reassurance? Would breaking down the trick into smaller, more manageable progressions help you build confidence incrementally? Perhaps you require technical guidance or the comfort of crash mats during practice? Maybe, in a different context, like exploring therapeutic AcroYoga, starting with someone you know and trust feels essential.
Whatever your needs may be, voice them! Clear communication is paramount in AcroYoga and in overcoming fear in any area of life. However, it’s crucial to differentiate between asking for what you need and attempting to control every aspect of the situation. Avoid falling into the trap of becoming a “bossy flyer,” micromanaging your base’s every move in an attempt to alleviate your anxiety. While control can create a temporary illusion of safety, it ultimately hinders the development of genuine trust and the ability to truly overcome fear. Personal experience speaks volumes here!
3. Embrace Bravery: Dare to Step Beyond Your Comfort Zone
Ultimately, overcoming fear necessitates bravery. It requires the courage to be a beginner, to be imperfect, and to potentially “suck” at something new initially. It means being bold enough to attempt a trick without a spotter when you’re confident in your ability and safety protocols. It takes courage to openly share your vulnerabilities, to relinquish control and trust another person to guide you, to embrace physical connection, and even to simply acknowledge and feel your fear without letting it paralyze you.
So, take a leap of faith. Embrace the unknown. Live a little on the edge. And choose to fly.
Your Turn to Share
What fears surface for you in AcroYoga, or in your everyday life? What strategies do you employ to navigate them? We invite you to share your experiences and insights in the comments below. By sharing our journeys, we can collectively inspire and support one another on the path to overcoming fear and embracing the freedom of flight.
Hugs,
Marijke
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