Showing Up: A Gentle Invitation to Presence

Each week at Centre Bodhi, my mindfulness classes will explore a new theme and are a gentle unfolding—an integration of yoga, Buddhist philosophy, psychology, and modern spirituality. This week, we begin with the theme of ‘showing up’. I’ve chosen this theme as we enter the Spring session, a time of renewal and new beginnings. Whether you’re attending one class or the entire session, your presence is a profound offering. I thank you for your presence, your practice, and your willingness to join our community.

In yoga, showing up is an expression of Tapas—the inner flame that calls us to meet ourselves as we are. It’s a devotion, not to perfection, but to presence. On days when our body feels heavy or our heart uncertain, showing up is an act of courage. Tapas teaches us that growth blooms in the consistency of our presence. To step onto the mat is to affirm, "I am here."

From a Buddhist perspective, showing up embodies mindfulness. Each breath, sensation, and fleeting thought invites us into presence. The practice of Sati invites us to witness it all with tenderness, while Metta encourages us to offer ourselves kindness as we meet whatever arises. This compassionate self-companionship nurtures the roots of compassion for others.

Psychologically, self-regulation theory reminds us that simply showing up can calm the nervous system. By engaging in intentional movement and breathwork, we cultivate safety and attunement within. Polyvagal theory affirms that presence and connection help regulate our physiological state, promoting relaxation and peace.

In both heart and mind, showing up sparks change. It is the soft rebellion against avoidance, the courage to stand in our own presence. In therapy, we’re invited to meet both our shadow and light, remembering that we are whole, even in our becoming. Book a therapy session with me if you’re ready to explore this deeper.

Being part of the Centre Bodhi community is a gift—a space where we gather as kindred souls, each walking our own path yet supporting each other along the way. Every time we step into this shared sanctuary, we weave our presence into a larger tapestry of care and connection.

Committing to the full session is a devotion to yourself and your practice—a loving promise to return, to grow, and to deepen your presence week after week.

So, this week, I invite you to show up to my yoga, meditation, and dance classes at Centre Bodhi. Come as you are—uncertain, weary, radiant, or curious. Every part of you is welcome. And if you feel called, consider signing up for the whole session to nurture this journey with consistency and care.

Let the ground receive you. Let the breath anchor you. Let the movements of your body speak their own language. There is no need to perform or be perfect here; you already are. Here, there is no right way to be—only the invitation to listen, soften, and stay.

In this shared space, we show up not only for ourselves but for one another. We practice presence, with tenderness and truth.

I look forward to meeting you there.

With love and light, Letitia