Tuning into winter

I like to think of winter as a time for nurturing and reflecting, a time when it’s ok to hibernate in-between our day to day tasks and commitments. Sometimes we need reminding to be kind to ourselves but that also means we need to look after our bodies by making sure we keep active. Here are some tips for adapting your self practice in the winter months.

It’s important to stay tuned in to our body and mind to recognise what we need so that we can adapt our yoga practice accordingly.

For example, our energy can be a little sluggish at this time of year, so you may choose a more dynamic practice to create energy, such as energising sun salutations or perhaps some core work to build heat like phalakasana (plank) and navasana (boat pose), twists can also be heating and might be just what your body needs during the colder months. Also if, like me, you have overindulged over Christmas then your digestion may thank you for poses that incorporate twists and compression of the abdomen such as Matsyendrasana (Lord of the fishes) and dhanurasana (bow pose).

Of course, there will be days where you recognise your body needs rest meaning you opt for a gentler restorative practice, choosing gentle stretches, perhaps the last few days for you have been non stop in which case you could go for grounding poses to restore some stability, working with slowing the breath down, all of which can be calming for the nervous system, activating our ‘rest and digest’ response. An extra long savasana (relaxation) may also be in order, whether your practice has been energetic or slower paced.

Some types of pranayama (breath control) that are suited to this time of year are Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing) to calm the nervous system, also Kapalbhati (a cleansing technique involving forceful exhalations) is a heating and energising breath that can be used to clear sinuses and aid digestion.

If we’re thinking about eating seasonally too then you might want to incorporate more warm and hearty meals into your diet during the winter months to warm the body from within and keep our ‘agni’ or digestive fire healthy.

With winter solstice on 21st December, we have seen our shortest day and can thankfully notice the light returning to the skies. Some do say the real new year begins in spring, the season of new growth, so why not align with nature and embrace the slower pace of winter, using the time to reflect and realign our goals for the year ahead, this may include adapting your self care routine and adding some new healthy habits.

So do keep moving, but most importantly be kind to yourself and don’t beat yourself up if you don’t always stick to your routine.