Power Yogaing My Way to Metamorphosis

THERE WERE TWO kinds of people during the height of the pandemic. Those who used the forced slow down to work on their health and fitness and those who used the experience to turn COVID 19 into COVID 20…

20 additional pounds on the scale. Unfortunately, I was the latter.

But even I can only wallow in my own sloth for so long. So I decided while I was settling into a new house and a new set of routines at the start of the new year, I would get back into a regular movement practice. Pre-pandemic I was a spinner. I even bought a Peloton when studios shut down … I just never adapted to an at home exercise routine like I had hoped.

So, recently I joined my local yoga studio. And by “local” I mean a block and a half away. No excuse not to go. I recognized I need the outside accountability of showing up someplace on a schedule. And I figured it would help me build community in my new neighborhood. Besides yoga is basically a good stretch followed by a 10-minute nap. A nice way to ease me back into moving my body.

Or so I thought! Admittedly, it has been years since my last yoga class and it turns out most yoga these days is quite active (the “Power Yoga” in the business’s title should have tipped me off) and hot. It’s like really hot. I am putting in work. But I am sticking with it. After all, nothing changes if nothing changes.

Seems I am going through my own bit of reinvention — new town, new house, new (very sweaty) workout routine — so this issue’s Big Story (page 36) about ECPs that have transformed their businesses really spoke to me. Perhaps you’re contemplating your own metamorphosis, be it personal or professional. I hope you find some inspiration either from their stories or my own.

In fact, if you are seeking inspiration, Robert Bell is back and he wants to Help You. Heed his advice on page 50 and you’ll be feeling a sense of renewal in no time. And on page 48, we’ve got another inspiring tale of a veteran optician experiencing a career reawakening. I encourage you to read it if you’re looking for a new beacon of light to illuminate your own journey.

As they say in yoga, Namaste, or “I bow to the light in you.”

Best wishes for your business,

Five Smart Tips From This Issue

Are you ready to get Reel? We shed some light on ways to make the most of this important Instagram feature for your business. (Monthly Project, page 20)
The fact is, virtual care is not only here to stay but growing (page 32). Learn which EHRs already have seamless telemedicine integrations. (Better Vision, page 30)
When was the last time you gave someone a compliment? How about making it a daily habit? (Tip Sheet, page 46)
Two-thirds of a practice’s income is from retail sales. Historically, the largest retail day of the week is Saturday. So, if you’re not open, what are you even doing? (Columns, page 56)
Did the last tip seem harsh? Well, it’s true. If you want some more tough love, we asked ECPs to share other truth bombs. (Buzz Session, page 60)

Deirdre Carroll

Having built a career in service journalism, Dee has been covering the eyecare industry for over a decade. As editor-in-chief of INVISION Magazine, she is passionate about telling independent ECPs stories and can be reached directly at dee@invisionmag.com.