EVOLVING FROM THE ROOTS

Urbanski offers personal essays about self-improvement and self-acceptance.

In a series of essays that can be read independently, the author writes about learning to temper perfectionism, examine priorities, and practice self-acceptance. Her grandmother, an early role model, would remind her in her childhood to “Slow down, dear one. Stop. Lock eyes. Listen more. Talk less. Be still. Be present. Relish each moment.” Urbanski approached adulthood at full speed, marrying a man named Bret and raising two children, Mackenzie and Mason, as she completed her doctorate degree and taught at high school and university levels. An injury and hip surgery at age 30 led her to a fulfilling yoga practice and taught her that “There is a gift in every problem.” The tenets that the author learned while becoming certified as a yoga teacher resonated in other areas of her life. She applied them to her family relationships, writing, and professional life, working toward the balance, gratitude, fulfillment, and stillness that her grandmother prioritized. Urbanski stresses that pursuing these goals is an ongoing process that is as important as achieving the objectives. (“What happens when we do the work to cultivate our roots and evolve is we develop a pretty hefty toolbox.”) Urbanski writes honestly about the unsustainability of taking life at a sprint—several essays that highlight examples from her life illustrate how “it will crush a girl to take the marathon of life at that pace” and how difficult it is to pause and practice stillness. One recurring theme—a tendency to feel she can handle everything, which often results in chaotic situations—will certainly be familiar to many women. It is a testament to her commitment to her work that she digs deeply to explore the roots of her actions. The text is often funny, even when the author describes difficult situations like having a panic attack: “I mean, who has a panic attack in yoga of all places?” Readers interested in taking a pause to examine their lives will find this book especially compelling, whether they practice yoga or not.

As comforting and engaging as talking to a thoughtful friend.