by Tedrah Smothers
The Christmas season is upon us and before we know it, our minds become filled with all the many things left to do before the big day.
With shopping, wrapping, socializing, cooking, and baking, our yoga practice can fall by the wayside.
We begin to feel like there isn’t time or we’re too exhausted for even a little yoga practice.
But the truth is…
When we make time for practice, we discover we actually have more time.
Our minds slow down and we focus on what is important.
Our bodies become filled with energy and ease.
We can rest in ourselves and connect to our world in a way that feels calm and alert.
All that needs to be done, gets finished.
We feel joyful and we are actually able to enjoy the season.
Doing just a little yoga can ease feelings of anxiety about the holidays by bringing us home to our truest self. This is the place where we find comfort, happiness and peace.
Here it is, direct from the yoga sutras:
When we slow down the to-do list in our minds, we are able to dwell in our own true splendor. (Sutra 1.2-3)
Now is the time for practice!
Here are some poses everyone can do:
Urdvha Prasarita Padasana: Legs up the wall
Ardha Uttanasana: Half forward bend with hands on the wall.
Bharadvajasana (sitting in chair): Simple Twist
Gomukasana (arms only): shoulder stretch with or without a strap. any simple shoulder stretch will do. interlacing hands behind your back and stretching arms
Adho Mukha Svanasana: Downward Facing Dog Pose
Supta Baddha Konasana: Reclining Bound Angle Pose
When you take time for yourself, you will have more time for others.
Make this holiday a happy one.
Treat your self this season, and join me for one (or more) of the holiday classes.
xo Tedrah