Motivational Monday!Motivational Monday is coming to Zumba With Alexandra. The first Monday of the month will bring a little something to get you going for the coming month. Here we go, with the start of the September... "Only I can change my life. No one can do it for me."By Carol Burnett. Who's feeling ready for a change? Whether it be new fitness goals, something spiritual or just getting out in the world and making new friends, your Zumba® family is here to support you. In my time of teaching I've met many people who have made some big changes in their life, everything from weight loss, increased self-confidence and major surgeries. It all begins with the decision to take the first step, the rest is the easy bit. Take it from someone who's been there... I'm 6 stone lighter and still counting! What changes are you going to make? What new challenges will you face? We're with you all the way! Best wishes,
Alex
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Feeling snowed under and stressed out in the run up to Christmas? Bank account starting to run low? Fed up of having to battle the crowds for the best deals to bulk up the stash of presents hidden under the bed? Got a few bruises from the aggressive shoppers rushing to get the last item on the shelf? I know the feeling. It's that time of year where we got torn in so many directions that we don't know which way's up. Between trying to fit in shopping trips for those last minute gifts, Christmas parties, school fayres, charity events and visiting the family we forget to take a little time out to unwind and have some much needed me time. Then when you do get in from work and have a spare hour the last thing you want to do is get back up and head out to an exercise class, right? The weather's rubbish, traffic is bad, it's too cold, you could be wrapping presents or working your way through the pile of unwritten Christmas cards. Maybe you need some inspiration to escape the Christmas panic and do something for yourself. Zumba Christmas stars...Being an instructor doesn't make me any different from anyone else. While setting up for class I've still been mentally going through the list of things still to buy, or checking the diary for up-coming bits and bobs to make sure I'm not double booked for anything. It can be hard to keep the enthusiasm and motivation for the everyday things, it just feels like going through the motions. But... The class members start plodding through the door, wrapped up in winter wear, waiting until the last minute to brave the chill. During class I can't help but smile as little groups giggle amongst themselves while comparing wiggling bottoms, or sharing a smug grin when they finally nail that move they haven't been able to work out for weeks. You guys remind me as an instructor to relax for a few moments and just have a bit of fun forgetting all the holiday stresses outside our little Zumba bubble. Then the real inspiration comes at the end of class when you get that one person hovering nearby, waiting for their moment to speak to you and share their most recent success story. I've had a few of these happen lately and I thought if it's inspired me, then maybe it will inspire someone else. Check out the examples below... A little Christmas miracle...Recently I was approached by one of our regular Zumba and Zumba Gold class members, waiting to share big news. For a long time they have had multiple health problems and being rather shy struggled with trying new things. With a little persuasion they've come along to our class, built up confidence and have even started introducing new people to our Zumba family. With a big hug of thanks (even though I didn't do much, the work was all their's) they told me that after a trip to the consultant for an up-coming operation... They have been given the great report to say all the exercise has paid off, dramatically reduced the health concern, therefore cancelling the surgery! Massive congratulations are in order! It's amazing what a little bit of determination and hard work with a smile can do. A Zumba trip down memory lane...Not to be biased, but this is possibly my biggest inspiration. I can't help but grin like a proud mum at the school nativity when I think about the achievements this person's had. After an accident many moons ago, one person I teach has been left with significant issues with memory loss. However the change since coming to their first class is quite simply, unbelievable. I look back and remember that class with them watching me and vaguely following along to some of the movements. Compare that to now, when as soon as the first dance starts, that infectious cheeky smirk starts to form and the giggling commences. We have reached the point where they are able to remember the steps without prompting, regularly beating me to the next move. Whether it be singing along to the tracks, or making naughty little comments about my dancing skills they have become a real character in class, and a joy to be with. Thank you! Be the inspiration...This may be my biggest and most important point of the day. I have had a new member join one of our classes only a few weeks ago. They have come in and looked around at the group doing the moves in their own individual way, in awe of the ability in the room. They couldn't believe the crowd had only been attending since June when the class opened, due to their flexibility, suppleness and success with the choreography. It has inspired them so much that they have asked for tips to practice at home, so they can build up to the level of what they have seen everyone else doing. They felt right at home with such a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, that they could not be anymore grateful to have found us. OK... So you may have other things on the never ending Christmas to do list that need your attention. You may be exhausted from another hectic day in the pre-holiday buzz at work. But where's the harm in taking a little time out for yourself. Even if it's just to share a dance and a shake with your friends, or burn a few extra calories now - so you've got an excuse for an extra turkey sandwich later... You never know what you could achieve in that little hour of 'you time'. You're thinking, but I don't have any health concerns that need addressing now? Or, it's jumper season, no-one will notice a few extra pounds? You may be right, but so what? Even if it's not something that affects you, maybe your fabulous Cumbia two-step will positively affect someone else. It's the time for gift-giving, so give a little a gift to yourself and temporarily forget the world. Or give a cheeky wink to someone else and spread some Christmas spirit and inspiration. Happy holidays!
Alex |
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