Life has a way of surprising us with small tests of patience and resilience. Yesterday was one of those days, beginning with a curious rattle in my old car and unfolding into a journey of bicycle rides, breath, and unexpected detours.
The Garage Surprise
It started with a trip to the garage to investigate ‘that funny noise’. I wasn’t sure if it was mechanical or just the acoustics of driving with the windows down. A friend quickly confirmed it was real – she could hear me coming down the street in my 20+ year-old car!
Usually, the garage sorts things quickly. Not this time. They needed a spare part and time. With no car to rely on, I jogged home through the park, sharing dusty paths with dog walkers, prams, and fellow joggers.
Balance, Breath and Bicycles
Later, I cycled to Tai Chi. The hill up toward Psalter Lane tested me, but instead of straining, I focused on staying tall and easeful. Letting the backs of my legs lengthen rather than pushing from the thighs became my practice. I ‘worked’ on staying tall in my back, letting my head and neck joint be unclenched and staying full in my back. To my surprise, I made it up the hill – breathless but proud.
Tai Chi brought its own rhythm of slow, precise steps and flowing arms. Afterward, I coasted downhill, then climbed back slowly through the park to meet another client. Still no word from the garage.
Chain Slips, Glucose Dips, and Determination
Commitments called me back onto the bike, even though my legs were tired. A quick gear change on a steep bit of hill popped the chain off, leaving me fumbling with grease-stained hands. Then my glucose alarm beeped – a hypo. With tablets in hand, I steadied myself, walked a little and kept going.
Each climb was effortful, but arriving to my next appointment felt like victory. Sometimes determination is simply about continuing, even when the body protests.
Cinema, Meadows and Coming Home
When the garage finally told me they couldn’t fix the car that day, I turned to a friend for support. I just couldn’t think where to go next, with my bike, or bus or what! Together we talked through next steps.
I ended up at the cinema, watching The Salt Path, which stirred a longing for long hikes. Stepping out afterward into the warm evening air felt like returning from a holiday.
The next morning brought more journeys – bus, train, barefoot walks through meadows after working in Hathersage, and finally, home again with my bike safely back in the car. Each leg of travel carried its own challenges and delights.
Rest and Reflection
What I learned is that balance isn’t about avoiding difficulty. Sometimes we can’t, and we find ourselves in all sorts of difficulty. It’s about meeting each moment with breath, awareness, and kindness toward yourself. About stopping, gathering yourself, finding a moment of peace, and making fresh decisions.
Whether it’s a broken car, a slipped chain, or a tired body, there are always small victories to be found. And being in the process of looking after my head, spine and back, means that whatever I did, or didn’t do, I was in good nick – whilst doing it, and at the end of it.
FAQs
Q: What does Tai Chi have to do with resilience? Tai Chi teaches us to move with awareness, balance, and ease. These principles carry into everyday life, helping us respond to challenges without unnecessary strain.
Q: How do you cope when plans fall apart? I pause, breathe, and ask myself what’s possible with the resources I have. Sometimes that means adjusting expectations, sometimes it means seeking support.
Q: Why share stories about everyday struggles? Because healing isn’t only about big breakthroughs. It’s about noticing how we meet the small, ordinary challenges of daily life. These moments shape our resilience.
Q: How can I start finding balance in my own life? Begin with awareness of your breath and posture. Notice when you’re straining, and gently redirect toward ease. Small practices build strength over time.
Take the Next Step Toward Healing with Lucy
If you’re navigating challenges – whether physical, emotional, or simply the ups and downs of daily life – I’d love to support you. Together we can explore practices that help you stay centered, resilient, and at ease, even when life throws unexpected detours your way.
📩 Reach out at lucy@lucyascham.com to take your next step toward healing.
