One of my favorite lessons from Mestre Cueca is the concept called “Over the Line”.
“Every time we start a new activity, let’s say when I came to capoeira for the first day, immediately a line appeared, and on one side of the line, it’s always easier to quit, and on the other side of the line, it’s always easier to stay.”
The results we witness in life are like the tip of an iceberg—visible, yet merely the surface of a more profound process. Much like the majestic icebergs that originate from glaciers, life’s outcomes stem from a gradual accumulation, starting as individual thoughts—tiny snowflakes that compound over time. This phenomenon, often called the Snowball Effect, mirrors the transformative power of cumulative actions and beliefs.
In life, at work, and even in capoeira, I consistently remind myself that what brought me here won’t take me there.
Transitioning to the next level or pursuing a new goal requires a completely different set of skills and activities. It’s not just about doubling up your current efforts.
A reminder to myself.
I consider myself an intense person. Some people might say I’m crazy about capoeira. In fact, I’m crazy at whatever I do.
Harsh language ahead. Beware!
I have always been sort of a geek. And even before going to my first capoeira class, I read the whole Wikipedia on the subject and came overprepared. I couldn’t do any movement, but I already knew about the traditions, lineages, styles in capoeira. Now I don’t recommend doing it extensively or having any high expectations before doing anything. Do your research, but “empty your cup” for new experiences.
The placebo effect is the positive response to an inert substance or treatment due to the patient’s belief in its efficacy, while the nocebo effect is the negative response to a harmless substance or treatment resulting from the patient’s expectation of harm.
Both the placebo and nocebo effects are well-documented phenomena supported by research in psychology, medicine, and neuroscience. But they are still a total mystery. Researchers continue to explore the underlying mechanisms and the conditions under which these effects are likely to occur.