YOGA IN WINTER SELF-PRACTICE TIPS FROM THIS IS YOGA
The winter season can be particularly challenging, but it also offers a unique opportunity to deepen your yoga practice. Whether you thrive on cozy dark evenings or find the short days and cold weather daunting, your yoga practice can provide the support you need.
Winter Yoga Practice Guide
At This Is Yoga, we believe in adapting our practice to meet the demands of each season. Our summer guide offered tips for maintaining your practice during the busy months. As we enter the winter season, we want to help you stay grounded and supported in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
What Does a Winter Yoga Practice Look Like?
Your winter yoga practice is personal and should align with your needs. While some may prefer a gentler, more introspective practice, others might find dynamic, fiery movements more beneficial. The key is to listen to your body and adjust your practice accordingly.
Three Tips to Set Up Your Winter Practice
Strike Yoga off Your To-Do List Yoga should nourish you, not feel like a chore. Connect with your practice in ways that relieve stress rather than add to it. Reflect on your yoga values to find what resonates most with you.
Reflect on Your Yoga Values Understanding your yoga values can transform your practice. Whether your goal is to feel more at home in your body, connect with your community, or find more space for yourself, let these values guide your practice. Especially during the cooler season, align your yoga with what you need more of – be it rest, fire, or introspection.
Develop a Self-Practice When it seems too cold outside and you don’t feel like braving the weather, a home practice can be your sanctuary. This doesn’t need to be extensive; even five minutes can be beneficial. Use This Is Yoga’s ‘On Demand’ videos for guidance and inspiration.
Practical Tips for Winter Yoga
Give Your Body What It Needs: Incorporate movements that suit your body’s needs, from deep breaths and cat-cows to sun salutations and long Savasana. Movement can be as simple as a brisk walk or dancing to your favourite song in your living room.
Breathe: Pranayama, or mindful breathing, is invaluable. Practices like Box Breathing or Alternate Nostril Breathing can help calm your nervous system and provide instant relaxation.
Take Care of Your Mind: Meditation can be challenging during busy times. Consider alternative practices like reading yoga philosophy, listening to yoga podcasts, or enjoying guided meditations to stay connected to your practice.
Reading Recommendations
Reading: Explore blogs like “Yoga Philosophy as a Personal Practice” and books like “Bringing Yoga to Life” by Donna Farhi for deeper understanding.
Take Extra Time for Yourself
Embrace extra time in bed for mindfulness, gentle stretches, or simply resting. Your yoga practice during winter should be as supportive and stress-free as possible.
Stay connected with This Is Yoga Sydney by following us on social media, or joining our email list, for more tips and community support as you navigate your winter yoga practice. Remember, your practice is here to support you, in whatever form that takes.
Original Article: Nourish Yoga