Vulnerability=Strength

Vulnerability is often considered weakness. But it’s not. Only the weak and fearful cannot admit their vulnerability.

When our self- approval rating is abysmal, we lack the confidence to own our weaknesses and imperfections. We live in fear and a chronic state of self- distrust, hiding, as if our vulnerability is shameful.

To, illustrate, I once took an Aikido class. Aikido is a martial art focused on self- defense. When it was time to practice some moves in pairs, the instructor told me to get soft, like a wet noodle when my opponent attacked me. I did as he instructed, and voila! I easily escaped the neck hold. Yet the instinctual response when attacked is to harden and push back. This only gives the attacker something to grab onto. When we soften and own our vulnerability, we have greater power. Our softening opens doors.

Are you strong enough to be vulnerable? How can you soften into your vulnerability—in a pose, in your life?

Just dwelling in the question will begin to shift you.

See you on the mat!

Love and light,

“Vulnerability is the only authentic state. Being vulnerable means being open, for wounding, but also for pleasure. Being open to the wounds of life means also being open to the bounty and beauty. Don’t mask or deny your vulnerability; it is your greatest asset. Be vulnerable: quake and shake in your boots with it. The new goodness that is coming to you, in the form of people, situations, and things can only come to you when you are vulnerable, i.e. open.”
— Stephen Russell, Spiritual Handbook for the Urban Warrior