Wow!! Life sure has it’s peaks and valleys, doesn’t it?
That’s how my life has felt over the last while. I can’t change what is going on around me, but I can change how I am taking care of myself so that I am better prepared as life reveals the peaks and valleys.
It can be so easy for me, as a Yoga Therapist, to share these practices with others and in doing so, such an eye opener to realize “Hey, I need some of that goodness for me too!”.
I have made a shift and have promised myself to bring more ease into my life. How have I done that? I’ve taken on some simple practices that have a profound effect on keeping me grounded.
My New Year’s intention, rather than resolution, is Self-Compassion – being kind to myself. I even found a mug to remind me when I start my morning ritual.
So, how am I moving forward with this intention? It’s a combination of practices in the morning, during the day and into the evening. It may seem like a lot, but truly, it’s becoming a way of life. I look forward to these rituals and the grounding benefits I am receiving.
My morning practice is from the sister science of yoga, Ayurveda. I have selected a few of many options to help improve my health and wellbeing through this practice called Dinacharya. These practices help to release toxins and bring about a sense of grounding for me to begin my day.
1. Tongue cleaning
2. Netipot (nasal rinse)
3. Nasya oil
4. Dry brushing
5. Warm oil self massage
6. Warm honey and lemon (hello kindness mug!)
Click here to visit a great video from Yoga International if you would like to learn a little more about these practices and how to slowly bring them into your daily routine.
During the day I am checking in on my breathing and what I am physically feeling in my body. What happens if I bring more awareness to my breath during stressful situations or even as I am out for a walk trying to avoid a slip on the ice? I let go of the tension – aha!! It’s so funny how that shallow chest breathing can creep right up on me during the day. And, it is so amazing how much more at ease my body can feel when I bring awareness to breathing through my belly, ribs and chest.
My days find completion with my own SomaYoga practice before bed to release any tension that has developed during the day from emotional or physical challenges. I choose what I feel my mind and body need for a practice. Then it’s off to bed to write in my Gratitude Journal about three experiences in my day am grateful for. Did you know that even thinking about what you may have to be grateful for creates a physical change in your body?
The icing on the day is listening to a guided Yoga Nidra practice once I am in bed. I place one hand on my heart which brings about a sense of warmth and care and begin the meditation practice. I fall asleep like a baby each night and have been sleeping right through the night.
I’d love to hear your intention for this New Year. Please feel free to email me with yours.
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
