photo credit: Denise Chan

Going out on a limb.

When I mentioned the theme of this week’s yoga playlist to a friend of mine, he said, “That’s really going out on a limb, isn’t it?”

I hadn’t thought about it that way, but, well, yes, it is.

That’s the point.

I certainly have to admit that of the seven billion people on the planet, it is highly possible that no one has ever conducted a yoga class using all RUSH songs. And originally I made the playlist because I hadn’t listened to this brilliant Canadian Prog-Rock band in a while and thought it would be fun. However, the idea of “going out on a limb” struck a chord. Not only does it sum up the musical philosophies of the three members of RUSH, who are nothing if not limb-goers, it also sums up an approach to existing in the world that I believe is essential to a satisfying and well-lived life.

In the words of another great Canadian, Wayne Gretzky: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”

I personally try to “go out on a limb” at least once a day. Whether it’s signing a new band at Bright Antenna Records, making preposterously unusual yoga playlists, taking a surf lesson, or simply telling a friend or family member how much they mean to me. Going out on a limb isn’t about being fearless, or about thrill-seeking. It’s about listening to the bravest part of your heart. It’s about facing challenges with dignity and courage. It’s about seeing challenges as opportunities. It’s about believing in yourself, and believing that anything is possible.

Like Geddy Lee sings:

You can fight
Without ever winning
But never ever win
Without a fight

Coming to you from a glorious limb on the edge of the tree of life.

Namaste.

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Follow Bright Antenna Records on Facebook and Twitter to receive a heads up when each week’s playlist hits elephant journal. For more of our yoga playlists, including Bowie Yoga, Grunge Yoga and Disco Yoga, visit Bright Antenna’s Spotify page.

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Editor: Kate Bartolotta

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