A few weeks ago, I shared why autumn is the perfect time to kickstart or rejuvenate your yoga practice.
With the lingering warmth of summer in our bones and the crisp promise of winter on the horizon, autumn offers a unique energy that can fuel our wellness routines. This transitional season is not just about harvesting the fruits of our summer efforts but also about preparing ourselves for the more introspective and restful winter months.
Autumn’s inherent energy—marked by a sense of preparation and renewal—creates an ideal backdrop for integrating and deepening the practices that nourish us. Whether you're new to yoga or looking to expand your current routine, now is a great time to find ways to weave wellness into the rhythm of your daily life. And here’s the best part: it doesn’t require perfect handstands or hour-long meditations.
Let’s explore some simple, yet effective ways to make your practice a natural part of your day.
1. Make Your First Moments Count
You can spend a few moments with your favourite breath practice under the comfort of your own duvet. Try Sama Vritti, or "Equal Breathing," which involves inhaling and exhaling for the same count to create balance and calm. Alternatively, you might choose grounding Brahmari, or "Humming Bee Breath," which uses a gentle humming sound on the exhale to soothe the nervous system. Focusing your mind and resetting your nervous system in these first moments can set a positive tone for the rest of your day.
2. Sky Before Screens: Nature Over Notifications
Make a commitment to start your day by connecting with the natural world before diving into digital distractions. Take a moment to look out the window, breathe in the fresh air, or even enjoy your coffee outside. Research shows that engaging with nature first thing in the morning can boost mood and focus, setting a positive tone for the day. Give yourself this mindful pause before reaching for your phone for a more serene and centered start.
3. Gratitude Practice: The Power of Positivity
Incorporating a gratitude practice into your daily routine can be profoundly transformative. Ruby Wax's insightful book, "A Mindfulness Guide for the Frazzled," speaks a lot on how cultivating gratitude can significantly impact mental health and well-being. Research supports this, showing that regularly acknowledging what we're grateful for can enhance brain function, improve mood, and reduce stress.
Start by taking a few minutes each day to reflect on what you’re thankful for. This simple practice can rewire your brain to focus on positive experiences and foster a more optimistic outlook. By making gratitude a regular part of your routine, you’re not just boosting your mental health—you’re also setting the stage for a more joyful and resilient mindset.
4. Movement is Medicine: Adapt Your Practice to Fit Your Body
I think that most of us understand the importance of movement in our daily routine. Movement is a powerful form of medicine, but it’s important that it works with your body, not against it. Over time, I've learned that rigid adherence to "rules" of poses isn’t as crucial as listening to your body’s unique needs.
Rather than striving for a perfect pose, focus on how each movement feels for you. Adapt and modify poses to suit your own comfort and range of motion. By tuning into your body and adjusting your practice accordingly, you make movement truly restorative and effective, honoring your own experience over rigid expectations.
5. Sneaky Yoga: Integrate Mindfulness into Everyday Moments
While setting aside an hour for a dedicated yoga practice is fantastic, it's not always feasible with a busy schedule. However, you can still weave yoga into your day through "sneaky" moments of mindfulness.
At any time, you can drop your awareness into your body and find small ways to incorporate yoga principles into daily activities. Feel your feet grounding you against the floor, align your spine to maintain a spacious, upright posture, and take a few moments to slow your breath and center your mind. These subtle adjustments can bring a sense of calm and presence to even the most hectic days, making the benefits of yoga accessible no matter how packed your schedule may be.
6. Come to Class and Tap into Group Energy
Attending a yoga class offers more than just structured practice—it immerses you in a dynamic group energy that can enhance your experience. When you practice alongside others, you benefit from the collective focus and motivation of the group. This shared energy can elevate your practice, making it more invigorating and supportive.
As a teacher, it is my job to hold space for your practice and guide you as you explore and deepen your yoga experience. The communal environment also provides a unique opportunity to connect with fellow practitioners, enriching your journey and fostering a sense of belonging. By joining a class, you tap into this collective support, deepening your practice and discovering new dimensions of your yoga experience.
Plus we can enjoy a cup of tea together!
If you are local to Shere, between Guildford and Dorking in the beautiful Surrey Hills and would like to try a yoga class with me this Autumn you can see my full schedule here
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