Play Pretend
“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing” - George Bernard Shaw
In the fall, Lauryn and I resumed our usual programs inside the studio and as always, we were ready to suggest new classes to build new relationships, including our BYOB enrollment option—Bring Your Own Bubble. Our Scotch and Stretch class captivated a new group of members and on Wednesday evenings—while socially distanced—we enjoyed delicious spirits, paired with simple stretches to prepare, restore, and celebrate our lifestyle with movement.
Our passion for training movement and strength connects us to members of all ages. We owe some of our creative twists and turns in class to the time we spent in the studio with our little lifters. Friends, parents, and proud LIFT ambassadors rallied the most imaginative, caring, active, and unicorn-loving-cousins for a morning in the studio that started at the drawing board. Together we mirrored, danced, balanced, and took turns. Today we continue to learn about the power of routine, play and pretend.
On any Saturday morning from September through December, the following conversation could be heard:
“Do you remember when we were sisters? Let’s pretend that you are the aunt, and they are the baby,” one cousin would begin.
“Nnnnn, I want to be the baby," roused the other.
“Ok, you are the dog this time.” They all agreed.
“Stop! No!” Lauryn and I would exclaim, albeit silently in our heads. Looking at each other and talking quietly under our masks, we knew we wanted to avoid going down Pretend Lane today, but also grew awareness to the powerful attributes imbued to those who explore and embrace it.
“Let’s, play The Dude,” Lauryn suggests—anything to get away from playing “sisters"!
Heading into February, Lauryn and I pretend too. During the set up for class and seeing that the number in our audience reads “4", we exude excitement and continue to be grateful for the opportunity to train directly with our live members. We also envision that number with a zero or two after it. Similarly, when we are waiting for our live audience to assemble and we see ‘zero’, we hope for any other number to pop up next.
As the pandemic continues, it is paramount that we all take care of our own health. We encourage you to start by pretending, playing, and growing stronger forever.
Ian + Lauryn