Yoga in Winter

Midwinter Yoga: A Time to Ignite our Inner Flame, whilst Turning into Stillness. As the trees stand stark against the pale sky, their branches heavy with frost. The sun, a shy visitor, casts long shadows across the frozen landscape. It’s the heart of winter, a time of stark beauty, profound stillness and introspection. Yoga in Winter: A perfect combination.

My breath fogs the air as I step onto the mat, sunlight slicing through the frosted windowpanes. I inhale the crisp winter morning, carrying the damp scent of earth and the faintest whisper of pine.

But here’s the secret, yogis: winter is not a season to sit out. It’s a dance, a slow and deliberate waltz with the elements, mirrored in our practice. Just as nature sheds its leaves and turns inward, so too can we find a deeper resonance within ourselves when we embrace the unique energy of winter.

Just as nature slumbers, our winter practice invites us to slow down, to move with intention, and to find nourishment in the quiet places within. Embrace the energy of winter – slow, deliberate movements that open the hips, spine, and chest, creating space for introspection and release.

Yoga: A Winter Sanctuary

Yoga can become a winter sanctuary. Supported backbends like fish pose and frog pose gently open the chest and lungs, inviting us to breathe deeply and clear away any lingering stagnation. Forward folds like child’s pose and downward-facing dog offer surrender and release, helping us to let go of what no longer serves us. Twists gently stimulate the digestive system and awaken the inner fire, keeping us warm and energised from the inside out.

The Gift of Stillness

Perhaps the most valuable lesson winter teaches us is the power of stillness. In a world that constantly demands our attention, winter offers a much-needed respite. Long savasanas become sanctuaries of quietude, where we can simply be present with ourselves and our breath. In this stillness, we can tap into a deeper well of creativity, intuition, and self-awareness.

Finding Inner Light in the Darkness

While winter may be associated with darkness and cold, it’s also a time for cultivating inner fire. I love incorporating practices that stimulate the solar plexus and digestion, like breathwork exercises and core-strengthening postures. These practices help to keep our inner furnace stoked, warming us from the inside out and reminding us of the life force that continues to pulsate even in the midst of winter.

We can cultivate our own inner light. Pranayama, the practice of breath control, becomes a potent tool. Ujjayi breath, with its rhythmic sound and warming effect, stokes the inner fire and keeps us grounded. Alternate nostril breathing (Nadi Shodhana) balances the energy flow, creating a sense of inner harmony and peace. As well as this, Mindful meditation, practised within the stillness of a long savasana, allows us to tap into a wellspring of creativity, intuition, and self-awareness.

Honouring the Rhythm of Nature

Moving with the seasons is not just about changing our yoga practice. It’s about aligning ourselves with the natural world, finding harmony within the ever-changing cycle of life. Winter, with its quietude and introspective energy, is a gift – a time to nurture ourselves, to replenish our reserves, and to prepare for the growth and renewal that spring will bring.

It’s a time to listen to our bodies, honour their need for rest and introspection, and cultivate a practice that nourishes and sustains us.

Here are some additional tips for moving with the seasons and honouring midwinter:

Listen to your body. In winter, your body may naturally crave more rest and less strenuous activity. Listen to your needs and adjust your practice accordingly.
Focus on breathwork. Deep, mindful breathing can help to calm the mind and promote relaxation.
Practice yin yoga. Yin yoga is a great way to release tension and promote flexibility.
Spend time in nature. Immersing yourself in nature can help to connect you with the rhythms of the season.
Get enough sleep. Winter is a time for rest and rejuvenation. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep to support your practice.
Eat nourishing foods. Eating warm, grounding foods can help to keep you warm and energised.
Practice gratitude. Take some time each day to appreciate the beauty and abundance of winter.

By following these tips, you can create a yoga practice that will help you to thrive throughout the winter season.

So, this winter, I invite you to join me in a yoga practice that embraces the magic of the season. Let’s move with the rhythm of nature, embrace the stillness, and discover the wisdom that lies within. Remember, sometimes the most powerful movement comes from the quietest places.

I hope this blog post inspires you to embrace the unique energy of midwinter and find a yoga practice that resonates with your soul. May your winter be filled with peace, introspection, and inner fire.

If you’d like more information on yoga philosophy please contact me or book here to practise with me in Marlow, Twickenham and online.

With love

Anney xx