“Life is like surfing, you’ve got to get your feet wet.” – Beverley Pugh
The first children’s empowerment workshop called “The Laughing and Breathing Belly” was held on March 6, 2013.
There were 32 children and many parents. The children had blankets, yoga mats, water bottles energy, and curiosity.
It was quite a moving experience for me as a Mom and a professional. I found it very heart-felt to be working with children to guide them with more choices as to how to handle their feelings as life unfolds. I wish I had something like this to go to when I was young.
The kids were great and the parents were so present and loving. It was a real privilege to host this group!
We looked at 6 tools for calming feelings. I really appreciate all the feedback from the parents as this program grows. Some of the children have decided that their parents need to learn some of these tools and they went home to teach a parent that wasn’t there! How special is that?
I had a parental surprise at the workshop. My 23 year old daughter who is studying children and youth at University was there as an assistant. She introduced me. Have you ever had one of your children introduce you? It’s an experience I will always remember. Talk about the passage of time and the passage of rites! She shared her experience of growing up and how important it was for her to learn ways of managing her emotions. As a parent, I got all choked up. Our children do grow up!! As a Mom I was reminded that we parents need to keep perspective as our children go through all the stages of growing up.
And then there is the theme of my self-growth. I would say my greatest momentum for self growth has been inspired through my children. For them I aspire to be the best I can be. I am aware, as I know all of you are, of the importance of leaving a legacy of health and personal growth. Having children challenged me to work on the consistency of my self-growth. It may have looked to the outside world that I was raising them, but I think the truth was they were raising me!
When my kids were growing up I did a lot of hands-on coaching with them. If they were belly breathing, I was too because I needed it as much as they did! We grew together. Practice hands-on coaching with your children, so you are doing it with them rather than telling them they should do it. Your children will enjoy your time and focus and playfulness as you experience it with them. This will enhance their learning curve.
When I was working in Japan, a Zen Master said to me “Remember your children are your Sensei” meaning our children are our teachers. How true is that? I remember naively nodding a yes, but had no idea of the essence of that journey I was on as a parent or as a growing adult.
I have been asked if I will run more workshops for children and their parents. YES, I will. If you have any ideas or suggestions, or would like to help in any way, please email me and let me know. I would love to hear from you.
As life unfolds, here is to OUR “Laughing and Breathing Belly” …both our children’s and our own.
Warm Wishes
Bev
