Liz Corwin - The Power of Peace: Journey of a Navy Fighter Pilot & Yogi
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In this episode, Liz Corwin, a former Navy F-18 pilot and current Navy reservist, shares her journey from being a fighter pilot to becoming a yoga teacher. She discusses the importance of authenticity in teaching yoga and offers insights on how to create a safe and inclusive environment for military members in yoga classes. Liz also talks about the transformative power of motherhood and the impact it has had on her yoga practice. She shares her favorite retreat experiences and highlights the importance of creating a container for retreats while allowing the group dynamics to shape the experience.
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https://www.walkaboutyoga.com/
Key Takeaways:
Authenticity is key in teaching yoga, and it is important to be true to yourself as a teacher.
When teaching military members, it is essential to create a safe and inclusive environment by being direct and using clear language.
Motherhood has brought a new perspective to Liz's yoga practice and has made her more aware of her body and its capabilities.
Retreats provide an opportunity for personal growth and transformation, and it is important to create a container while allowing the group dynamics to shape the experience.
Supporting military families is crucial, as they also need the support and opportunities for growth and well-being.
A Glimpse Into the Life of a Yoga-Teaching Navy Pilot
The intersection of military precision and the fluidity of yoga may not be an obvious one, but Liz Corwin, a former Navy F-18 pilot and current Navy reservist turned yoga instructor, embodies this duality seamlessly. In a captivating dialogue, Liz reveals insights about her life experiences, from the adrenaline of flight school to the tranquility of yoga, her devotion to military service, and the challenges of motherhood. This deep dive uncovers the layers of Liz's life, where she merges the structured world of aeronautics with the flexibility of yoga, reminding us that growth lies in the balance between pushing boundaries and seeking inner peace.
Key Takeaways:
Embodying the complementarity of military discipline and yoga's mindfulness can lead to a profound understanding of personal and collective peace.
Authenticity in teaching, whether it stems from a military or civilian background, resonates deeply and creates a bridge between people of diverse experiences.
Navigating the identity as a protector and the quest for individual and global peace requires a complex reflection and acceptance of one's contributions to both.
From Fighter Jets to Yoga Mats: The Intersection of Discipline and Mindfulness
Within the realms of military rigor and the patience of yoga lies an unexpected symbiosis. Liz Corwin's evolution from a Navy F-18 pilot to a dedicated yoga teacher presents a narrative that deftly blends the high stakes of combat flights with the grounding practice of yoga. It resonates with the fundamental truth that one can inhabit multiple worlds—those of adrenaline-inducing adventures and those of reflective tranquility. Liz describes her affinity for the thrill and demands of flying jets as a former Navy pilot, a passion that's undeniably intertwined with her presence and stillness as a yogi. As she recounts, "every cat shot was just as exciting as the first time," illustrating that even the most thrilling experiences demand a counterbalance, one that she found in the meditative practice of yoga.
The broader implications of this blend of worlds are significant. Liz's story exemplifies how individuals can construct a harmonious life that honors their multifaceted nature. It challenges the binary perception of rigid discipline versus fluid mindfulness, instead showcasing a sustainable model where disciplined training can coexist with—and even enhance—mindful living.
Harnessing the Power of Authentic Presence in Teaching
Throughout the conversation, the theme of authenticity emerges as a centerpiece, particularly in teaching. Whether instructing a military-focused yoga class or guiding a studio session with civilians, Liz emphasizes the importance of genuine connection. "Be authentic...your audience will recognize that," she advises, stressing that this acknowledgment forges trust and fosters an inclusive environment. Yet, achieving this authenticity takes introspection and work, with Liz noting the necessity of feeling competent and grounded in one's own body and teaching style before connecting authentically with others.
The discourse on authenticity in teaching extends beyond the personal. It resonates in the broader context of the educational and wellness communities, where practitioners are continually seeking ways to connect and engage with their audiences meaningfully. Liz presents authenticity not as a fixed endpoint but as an evolving quest that's both personal and communal, offering a roadmap for teachers and leaders who aspire to leave a lasting impact.
Remerging Peace and Defense: The Dualistic Identity of a Military Yoga Instructor
One of the most poignant and complex themes discussed is Liz's dual identity as a service member and a proponent of peace. As a reservist and a warrior for peace through the practice of yoga, Liz tackles the dichotomy head-on. The conversation explores the intrinsic human desire for peace that underlies military actions and frames this pursuit as a deeply rooted human endeavor, reflective of the same values sought through yoga. Liz's contemplation of her role, acknowledging her initial motivations for joining the navy driven by the allure of adventure and brotherhood, reveals a nuanced understanding of the multifacited nature of military service.
This topic touches upon a universal truth about human nature and society's need to protect while striving for tranquility. Liz's reflection invites us to consider the role that each person plays in this balance—how we all contribute to the quest for peace, and how we navigate the complexities inherent in the desire to both defend and harmonize.
In a world increasingly fraught with conflicts and divisions, Liz embodies a message that insists peace and defense can be two sides of the same coin. Her commitment to both serves as an emblematic tribute to all those who commit to this delicate balance. Liz's insights offer a beacon of hope that we can all learn from, teaching us that service, in its truest form, comes in many guises and is driven by an unwavering pursuit of a world where understanding and coexistence are paramount.
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