How To Use Yoga to Embrace the Blossoming Energy of Spring
Oh Reader, can you feel it in the air? SPRING has sprung and I’m (just a wee bit) excited. It’s the season of renewal, rebirth, and all things blooming! As nature awakens from its winter slumber, we too can harness the vibrant energy of spring to rejuvenate our bodies, minds, and spirits. Guess what can help to do this? You got it- YOGA. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Warming Up to Spring
Just as the sun begins to warm the earth after the cold of winter, we can ignite our internal fire with warming yoga practices. Start your day with Sun Salutations (see last post for more on these) to greet the rising sun, and invigorate your body with energizing flows like Warrior sequences and Chair poses. Embrace the gentle warmth of the season as you move mindfully through each posture, allowing your breath to guide you like a gentle breeze. Feeling an afternoon slump? Try a few minutes of Kapalbhati pranayama- better known as Breath of Fire. It’s guaranteed to wake up your body & focus your mind…without the jitters (and messed up sleep) that come with caffeine!
Grounding in Growth
As new life sprouts from the earth (helloooo, daffodils!), we too can root ourselves in the present moment through grounding yoga practices. Connect with the earth beneath you in poses like Tadasana (tah-DAH-suh-nah)-Mountain pose- and Vrksasana (Vrik-SHAH-suh-na)- Tree Pose- feeling the stability and strength that comes from grounding down. Or, simply sit on the floor/ground and take a few deep breaths, mindful of the connection between your body & the earth. Take time to connect to the growth and expansion happening all around you, and that might be ready to happen within you now too. It’s exciting to remember the potential that lives within you…just a choice away!
Meditations for Rebirth
If ever there was a time to begin a meditation practice, that time is NOW. Set aside just 5-7 minutes each day, to practice focusing your mind. You can simply focus on the feel of each breath, or use an affirmation as your focal point. You might choose themes of renewal, growth, and transformation. For example: “I embrace change.” You might also tap into your powerful, analytical mind by visualizing yourself shedding old habits and beliefs like the shedding of winter coats, making space for new beginnings to take root and flourish. As you breathe in the fresh air of spring, feel yourself blossoming into the best version of yourself.
And beginning in April, you can join us for a NEW offering: Just Breathe with Trish. Every Friday at 11:45am, join us from anywhere via Zoom to give yourself the gift of a 20-minute break to- literally- just breathe. I’ll guide us through breath practices to calm your body, and meditations to calm & focus your mind. If you’ve been wanting to (re) start a meditation practice, here’s your chance!
Incorporate these warming, grounding practices into your yoga routine this spring, and watch as you grow and thrive alongside the budding flowers and blossoming trees. Embrace the energy of renewal that surrounds you, and let it guide you on a journey of transformation and self-discovery. After all, just like the flowers, you too are meant to bloom! 🌷
Cheering for your Growth,
Trish