Embrace the Shake: Finding Stability in Uncertainty
We’ve all been there—standing at the crossroads of life, trembling with uncertainty. Whether it's a big decision, a life change, or pushing our limits, those shaky moments can feel overwhelming. But what if I told you that even in those moments of fear and instability, you are stronger than you realize?
It was Sunday morning.
And as I do every week, I logged onto Zoom for my cherished 90-minute yoga class. It's a time I treasure, a blend of meditation, physical practice, and a deeply spiritual experience. About 20 minutes into the session, I felt the heat starting to rise within me.
Just as I began focusing on slowing my breath, my yoga teacher's voice cut through the silence, saying, "Even when you are shaking, you are stable."
In that instant, time seemed to stand still.
I repeated those words in my head, letting them sink in —even when you are shaking, you are stable.
Tears welled up in my eyes, as they often do during these sessions. Yoga has a unique way of unlocking emotions, allowing them to flow freely. Each class becomes a cathartic experience, where I reconnect with my inner strength and resilience; always resulting in tears.
As those words echoed in my mind, I was flooded with memories of times when life felt incredibly shaky. Moments when I doubted myself, when fear tried to pull me under; ultimately, reminding of my own strength and resilience. Despite the shaking, I had always found my footing.
Our lives are woven together by these shaky moments.
We shake when we’re scared,
when we're excited,
when we're on the brink of something new,
and when we push ourselves to the edge of our comfort zones.
These moments of shaking are not signs of weakness but indicators of growth, transformation, and the stretching of our limits.
Shaking isn't just physical—it's emotional, mental, and spiritual. It’s what happens when we step into the unknown, when we challenge ourselves beyond what we thought possible. The shakiness signifies that we’re on the verge of something significant.
Shaking shapes us.
Yet, when we feel shaky, it’s easy to perceive it as being off-balance or out of control. In these moments, fear can persuade us to retreat, to abandon the pursuit of what scares us, and to seek the safety of the familiar.
But what if we reframe this shaking?
What if we see it as a sign of impending growth rather than impending doom?
What if we don’t retreat?
I've felt this shakiness in so many pivotal moments of my life—during my divorce, when I decided to move across the country alone, when I enrolled in a Wilderness Trekking School, and when I took the leap to live with my boyfriend after a decade of independence.
Each decision brought a wave of discomfort, a shaking of my very foundation. But it was in those shaky moments that I discovered my true strength.
Being uncomfortable is essential for growth. It pushes us to evolve, to stretch into new experiences and versions of ourselves. Shaking should be seen as stretchy, not panicky—they are different.
When you feel the shake, it's not a signal to stop but an invitation to expand.
As I continued my yoga practice that Sunday morning, I let my teacher’s words settle into my bones. "Even when you're shaking, you are stable." These words reminded me that shaking doesn’t mean my stability is at risk; it means we’re human, having a real life experience.
So, the next time you find yourself shaking—whether from fear, excitement, or pushing your boundaries—remember that this is a natural part of your journey.
Embrace it.
Lean into it.
Let it be a sign that you’re growing, transforming, and becoming more of who you’re meant to be.
Life will always present us with moments that make us shake. These are the moments that shape us, define us, and ultimately, strengthen us. So when you find yourself in the midst of a shaky moment, take a deep breath, and remember: even when you’re shaking, you are stable.
After all, you’re still standing, and here with me today.
FAQs
Why do we feel shaky in uncertain situations?
Shakiness often arises when we're stepping out of our comfort zones. It's a natural response to facing the unknown or challenging ourselves. This feeling is a sign that we're on the edge of growth and transformation.How can I embrace the shaking instead of fearing it?
Embrace the shaking by recognizing it as a part of the growth process. Instead of seeing it as something to avoid, view it as an indicator that you're pushing your limits and evolving.What are some ways to find stability during shaky moments?
Ground yourself through mindfulness practices like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation. Remind yourself of your past successes and strengths. And remember the mantra: even when you're shaking, you are stable.Is it normal to feel emotional during these moments?
Absolutely. Shaky moments often bring up deep emotions because they touch on areas where we feel vulnerable. Allow yourself to feel and process these emotions as part of your growth journey.Can shaking be a positive experience?
Yes, shaking can be incredibly positive! It signifies that you're challenging yourself and stepping into new territory. Embrace it as a sign of personal development.
By acknowledging and embracing the moments that make us shake, we open ourselves up to incredible growth and self-discovery. The next time life throws you into a shaky situation, remember that you're not just surviving—you're thriving. You're stable, even in the shake.
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