I was walking along the river one day this week, anxious to get to the bench where I usually take a break at the one-mile mark. It’s in the sunshine and faces the river where fishing boats saunter by and speed boats make waves. Once it came in view however, I noticed a woman sitting on it. Sitting in the middle, with arms stretched out and elbows resting across the back. No place for me. I slowed down and quietly passed by. Then out of the corner of my eye, I was happy to see her stand up and continue her walk in the opposite direction. I turned back and got to the bench.

I did something I’ve never done before. Something simple. I sat in the middle and spread my arms across the back of the bench, as I had seen the woman do. It’s a posture I’ve seen many times, but I have never taken it. In that moment I realized I usually sit at the end of a bench so as to not take up the whole space. And, I sit slightly slumped, with poor posture.

Lifting my arms to engulf the breadth of the bench felt luxurious. It opened my chest and my inhale was deeper. I think the breeze crossed my body just a little closer, too. It felt good, and I wondered why I’d never tried that pose before. I suppose I was trying to not take up too much room. I was playing small. Not anymore. I think I’ll take up just as much room as I need. And if you come along and want to join me, just ask me to move over. I’ll be happy to. But until then . . .