Unlocking Knowledge: Siobhan Connally’s Ittybits & Pieces for Adult Education Success

On the eighth day of this New Year, I found myself lying on the cold floor of a high school cafeteria, trying to relax. It wasn’t easy. With all the chaos happening in the world, quieting my mind became a challenge. But then, I heard the clatter of a broken vending machine nearby. It became my unexpected distraction.

I had guessed it would be chilly inside, so I came prepared, wearing my fluffy down parka. I wrapped myself up like a cozy burrito, hoping to stay warm while searching for a little peace. Despite the distracting noise from the machine, I decided to unroll my yoga mat and give it a try.

As I listened to the instructor’s voice, I struggled to hear her over the rumbling of the vending machine. My coat’s hood acted like a pillow, making it even harder to catch her directions. I must have looked a little silly, twisting around while trying to follow along as my fellow classmates stretched and breathed deeply.

The class was filled with fellow seekers of tranquility. We sat in our comfy clothes—old joggers and bare feet. Nobody looked like yoga stars, but we were all there for the same reason: to find a moment of calm in our busy lives. The cost of the class was a bonus, thanks to public education.

Each time I attend a class, I notice something new. This time, most poses kept us close to the ground. I tried to adapt my standing poses to lying down. The instructor asked us to push against the floor with our crossed legs, but I twisted my neck to see her better, which wasn’t the best idea. It reminded me how out of practice I was. I quickly adjusted, taking cues from my neighbors instead.

Before long, I was sweating more than expected. As the class continued, I tried to let go of my wish to be younger. Stretching became a challenge, and I couldn’t help but wonder if my organs were shifting as I extended my limbs. I felt the little aches and cracks in my body, reminders of how I needed to take better care of myself.

My focus drifted back to the vending machine. Its sounds became a soothing rhythm—whirring and clunking—as I breathed in and out. Slowly, I felt calm wash over me. I stared at the ceiling and thought of my son, who had been in this very room earlier, probably making memories with his friends.

I had invited him to join me, thinking he might enjoy a session with his mom at his high school. But he laughed and said he’d “rather have a root canal.” Fair enough. At this age, hanging out with parents isn’t usually on the list of cool things to do.

Flexibility fades with age, I suppose. And in that moment, it felt like neither of us had enough of it.

When the class ended, I rolled up my mat and gathered my things. I felt grateful for this community and the gentle reminder of how important it is to honor our bodies. As I prepared to leave, I noticed a sign on the vending machine, warning that the drinks were warm. “Cold water available from the attendant. Just ask.”

This made me smile. I knew when I got home, I’d tell my son about the quirky machine, and he would laugh, sharing his own stories about it.

Life can be unpredictable, but moments like these keep the spirit light. And sometimes, unexpected distractions help us find the calm we’re searching for.

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