Cor's Corner Holidays 2021 - Fitness Incentive

Simply put, it’s a Japanese term for the concept of finding your purpose.

Corinne Brown

IKIGAI…

You’re probably asking, “What does this mean?” Simply put, it’s a Japanese term for the concept of finding your purpose.

I have always believed I had a purpose on this earth. I feel it in my dedication to my family and friends, to my profession, to the physical gym itself and the gym community that inhabits it, in my devotion to running, long walks, cooking… I can name so many things that bring me joy and purpose.

In the last few years, I have become so much more focused on what I want to translate to others: caring, listening, loving, learning, sharing, to name a few. This focus has brought my teaching to a whole new level. I’ve come to understand that finding time to do things you enjoy without guilt or outside disturbances is critical to your well-being.

In the past, I had no concept of sitting still; even the idea of becoming a better version of me wasn’t something I thought of often. I simply went through the motions without thinking of their purpose.

When we reopened the gym, after the long, difficult period of not knowing when or even if we would reopen, I found my stretch classes to be one of the most important aspects of my Ikigai. Finding that space and seeing my students feel so rewarded through the simple process of meditation and relaxation has been eye-opening.

Years ago, if someone said I would be teaching stretch classes and find them truly transformative, I would have said no way; stretching is boring, or I don’t see the point of relaxing for an extended period of time. I’m sure I would have said they’re not for me, but I was so wrong. These classes have helped me focus and feel even stronger in my strength classes and everyday life.

Give yourself the chance to find your Ikigai, whatever that passion is, embrace it, share it; I think you will be so happy with the results; I know it has changed me for the better.