04/27/2026
The Consequences of Being Yourself
A Note to Myself as Autism Acceptance Month Ends
There are a few days left in April—the month now coined by social media as "Autism Acceptance" month. If you know me, then you know I sit on the edge of a fence with the idea that one month is enough to dedicate to an alarmingly high number of individuals diagnosed with autism and their families, whose lives are forever changed.
On weeks like this last one, I also sit with a clear resolve that I wish I didn't care so much, because caring comes with tremendous disappointment. I learned this week that the little program I was gifted the opportunity to lead no longer exists. A choice out of my control, much like this burning sensation at the core of my heart for this work, that I didn’t choose; it chose me. And for the parents, students, and extended family members I’ve met on the path of my 30-year career, I know now—having known them and their child’s diagnosis—that it, without doubt, chose them. I’m better for knowing them and will forever be inspired by their resolve.
Something else you may or may not know about me is that I own and operate a yoga studio. Three years into writing my dissertation (it took me seven—zero regrets), I paused in the writing process to ask my husband if he’d support me opening a studio. He didn't ask if I was crazy; he just smiled and said, "Do you think you have time for that right now?"
I responded YES. Last year, we celebrated ten years in business, the last three as recipients of the "Best of the Illinois Valley." I say this to "toot my own horn," but to also remind you that when you know your WHY, the how does not matter. Victor Frankl taught us that meaning is the primary motivation of the human being. My "Why" has been the same for three decades: to provide a sanctuary of growth for those the world often overlooks.
The ability to sustain anything over time is to stay true to yourself. The Bhagavad Gita says, "Yoga is the practice of tolerating the consequences of being yourself." (Thank you, Bridgett, (https://www.instagram.com/bpiacenti/) for that beautiful reminder today). It is, as you said, the "freedom" and reminder that today is all you have—start there, work with that—the good, the bad, the ugly.
Last week, my saving grace was home and TANA. My yoga practice allowed me to become still so I could soften around the edges—the hard expectations I put on myself and on others—to help me "arrive at tolerating, and maybe (just maybe) accepting, life as it is."
To my colleagues, this community and the world, as we close out this month: I know many of you feel the weight of "restructuring" and the pressure to trade your "Why" for others' "How." Please do not let the hard lines of a system restructure your soul - your purpose. I have learned that the students we serve—the ones who truly flourish under high-support and neuro-affirming care—never had the luxury of being anyone other than themselves. They spend their lives tolerating the consequences of their neurodivergence in a world that often demands they change.
The least we can do, as the professionals entrusted with their growth, is to find the courage to do the same. Stand in your truth. Soften your edges. And never forget your "Why."
"He who has a why to live can bear almost any how." (Victor Frankl)
((all my heart))
Amy
May Offerings & THINGS tugging at my heart (in a good way)
We’re thrilled to keep you energized and inspired! Check out our updated class schedule on our website and find your favorite sessions waiting for you. Your journey to wellness continues at TANA Yoga Studio—let’s keep practicing together!
I'm excited to share our latest newsletter, where I dive into some incredible podcasts that have been inspiring me and giving me perspective.
Get ready to elevate your mind and body with our latest newsletter, featuring inspiring playlists, must-read wellness books, and exciting updates from TANA Yoga Studio that you won't want to miss!
Click here for an update from TANA Yoga Studio!
