June 22, 2013

The emerging cold of winter encourages all life to sink deep into the earth. To preserve energy, everything in nature goes into hibernation; Seeds in the ground build and store nourishment ready to spring out of the earth in the following warmer season. we sleep for longer, activity is reduced, the expense of stress and fear is reduced. 

We are influenced by the force of the water element; yielding, flowing, deep sinking, soft yet resilient, courageous yet fluid. We swim with the current, not against it, living life with ease. 

Water naturally flows downward, and goes calm and still when not disturbed. When water is still, the sediment settles and it becomes clear and reflective, like a mirror. It is a time for self reflection, for old patterns, emotions and memories that lie deep under the surface to be rediscovered and made peace with.

The kitchen becomes the heart of the house with roasted or slow cooked meals radiating warmth from the oven all day. Bones are the deepest part of our body, so we use food to restore minerals to our bone marrow, and warm us deep to our core.

In yoga, we practice balance asanas, as they require focus and stillness, forward bends restore and settle the para-sympathetic nervous system. Awareness is given to the flow of the breath, allowing its gentle rhythm to settle our minds.

Winter is celebrated through the warm glow of a fire, the intimate connections with friends and hearty meals. Enjoy!