Words of Wisdom:
“Just slow down. Slow down your speech. Slow down your breathing. Slow down your walking. Slow down your eating. And let this slower, steadier pace perfume your mind. Just slow down…” ~Doko
Thoughts for November:
It’s that time of year again. There’s even a popular tune about it, by Andy Williams, “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” And yes, it is indeed a wonderful time of the year. But, despite the fall season calling for us to hibernate and slow down, we tend to speed up and do more.
From holiday commitments, to holiday travels, to the end of corporate years, to shopping, to family expectations and dynamics…it all builds up and amounts to a lot of extra worry and stress!
This time of year is perfect for taking it back to the basics and practicing self care. What are some ways that we can ward off holiday stress? Start by being kind to yourself and really listening to your body.
At a time of year when it’s so easy to force and push, practice doing the opposite. We know by now where pushing gets us, both on and off the mat. How often do we push on the mat, and then wind up regretting it later in the form of injury or fatigue? Likewise, how often do we push in life off the mat, and wind up feeling burnt out and depleted?
Slow down, listen to your body, and practice being kind to yourself. Rest when your body tells you to do so. Work when it will permit you to do so. Get enough sleep at night. The holiday season is busy enough. You’d be surprised at how allowing yourself to slow down and be easy, can be very serving.
Notice how when we are kind and loving toward ourselves, it is that much easier for us to be kind and loving to those around us.
This time of year is also wonderful for reflecting.
As another year draws closer to a close, take time to journey inward by making time to connect with yourself and dig deeper around what you really desire out of life and your relationships. We must learn to slow the “go, go, go” mentality and take time to be still, quiet, and reflective. Rather than fleeing from ourselves, we must learn to be with what’s inside, because after-all, we have to live with ourselves.
Make time this holiday season to connect with yourself through the arts, reading, music, nature, or anything else that speaks to you. Why not take a nap? Why not take a long walk? Why not attempt to clear a space in your home and meditate? Why not get to yoga class? Journey inward by doing the things that help bring you peace and leave you feeling centered, grounded, and clear.
By listening to our hearts and taking care of ourselves, we can find inner-peace this holiday season. When we feel grounded and balanced, we position ourselves for greater ease and flow. We can then put our best foot forward, taking our yoga off the mat and into the world this holiday season.
About the Image:
Marina Mukandala, is featured in this newsletter issue in easy pose (Sukhasana). The benefits of Sukhasana are as follows:
- Calms the mind
- Straightens and lengthens the spine
- Slows down metabolism
- Cultivates inner tranquility
