The ancient yogis were very much about living according to the seasons, moving with the flow of nature and finding your place there. With that said it is well and truly winter here in the southern hemisphere with temperatures barely reaching double figures. Winter is a time for slowing down and indulging in some warming soups and drinks to ward off the many bugs that seem to be about. It is also important to take care of the joints that can become stiff in the colder weather so taking time to practice some simple postures like ankle bending, shoulder circles, hip circles, knee bending and wrist circles can keep the blood and the synovial fluid moving.
As well as taking care of the joints try find adequate time for rest and include either a daily yoga nidra or at least a short meditation each afternoon or early evening. (There are links in previous posts for these practices if you search yoga nidra or relaxation.) Make sure you are in a warm and comfortable space though before you begin. Nothing distracts the mind more than feeling cold!
From an Ayurvedic perspective Winter is also the time to prepare warm and nourishing foods to fuel your body. Whilst hot chips might be convenient they are not going to provide adequate vitamins and minerals the body needs to ward off the winter colds! Find time to relax with a hobby or craft activity or listen to your favourite music.
We live in a fast paced world and our senses are often bombarded with an enormous amount of stimuli so during winter let yourself let go of a few things….they will always be there to pick up in the spring.
Beechworth Yoga 