5 Ways to Practice Yoga During the Holidays

“The Holidays;” the time period that begins after Halloween and ends at the onset of the following year. It seems as though the promotion of these days begins earlier every year. As a result, you may be feeling any number of emotions and energies as you prepare for and are inundated with the events of the season.

​Yoga can help. Here are 5 ways to apply the practices of Yoga to your life so that you may be a bit more calm, reasonable, and in control this holiday season.

Ahimsa

Transalated to mean non-harming this practice of one of consideration of yourself and others. We all react to stress differently. We all perceive the holidays differently. We all experience the world differently. Practice non-harming this season by remembering the following:

-Participate in that which brings you and those closest to you happiness.

-Give yourself and others space and time to complete that which they are focused upon.

-Prepare yourself by taking a few moments to breathe before engaging.
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​-Eat, Drink and Enjoy slowly.

Svadhyaya

Self Study is the practice of learning from others and listening for our own vibrations. While spending time with friends and family practice listening. Ask about their lives, their experiences and their opinions. Allow them to express themselves. Listen for the gems of knowledge that are revealed as they share their stories.

If you become overwhelmed with the chatter, distractions, and noise of the day step aside to a more peaceful and quiet space. Reflect upon the goodness of the day. Take the time to enjoy all that you have been given and created for yourself. Hum or Aum in honor of the wonder of your life.

Asana

Move, groove and get active. Encourage others to join you. Yoga prescribes poses for specific application, but you don’t need to be in class to experience the benefits of conscious movement. Twist gently to massage your digestive system.  Move through a seated version of cat and cow to move food through.  Encourage children to get moving during a game of tag. Massage your grandmother’s shoulders. Take a walk outside. Activity before and after eating will help you to digest your food and feel energized.

Brahmacarya

Moderation may be one of the most challenging practices of the season. You may feel like you “have to” buy, eat, go, give, etc.  Practice moderation by pausing to consider each choice you are about to make.  Reflect upon the value of the  item or experience.  What is your intention behind each?  Choose that which improves your life and that of others rather than that which looks or sounds good in the moment.

Ishvara Pranidhana

Surrender, dedication and devotion are the words used to translate this term.    Be willing to surrender to the traditions of the holidays.  Have fun, be silly, try something new and celebrate with time-honored traditions.  Disregard the aspects of the season that spark negativity.  Instead, focus upon the joyful moments so that you may experience Yoga all season long.

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If you are interested in learning more about the philosophies and practices of Yoga as well as how to transition into a Yogic Lifestyle contact us at LakeTahoeYoga@gmail.com or call the studio at (775)580-7224.