Saturdays, December 1, 8, 15 and 22
Extended Practices from 8:00 to 9:30 am
Join me for Extended Practice sessions from 8:00-9:30am. Our focus this month will be on affirmation yoga. We will do a full, holistic practice that will be physically, intellectually and spiritually challenging.
What is affirmation yoga?
Each session we will do a sequence of yoga asana (poses) that we will hold for a more extended period of time during which we will repeat to ourselves a specific mantra. These mantras are in English and will help us feel supported through this season. While these affirmations are different from the ones that I am planning on incorporating into my practices in December, they definitely give you an idea of how this works. It is an incredibly powerful practice that strengthens the body while deeply honoring the energy of the asana and encouraging us to truly embody our practices in mind, body and spirit.
Sounds Great, But 8:00 am on Saturdays? Too early!
Is your response, “This sounds great, but it is way too early on a Saturday morning for me!”? I’d like to suggest that you give it a try—–wake early enough to have a warm and nourishing cup of coffee or tea and a light breakfast. Perhaps some yogurt, a piece of fruit and a bit of granola. Grab your mat and come to your practice with an open mind and heart. We start practice with gentle movements that connect body and breath and you will have plenty of time to wake up and be present. Then, we will practice an active sequence of flow yoga designed to increase circulation, improve energy and strengthen the body. Filled with prana we will then engage with our affirmations and embody our practice with noble cause. After pranayama and some delicious stretching, the practice will end with a long relaxation. By 9:30am, your practice will be over and the whole beautiful day will stretch before you with open arms. You will feel MUCH better than you would have had you remained in bed for an extra hour and you will have all the life force that you need to call upon to get through the season with grace.
I Just Don’t Have the Time to Practice Right Now
Overwhelmed with holiday tasks, parties, house cleaning, present wrapping and stress? An hour and a half might seem like a luxury that you just can’t afford in December. I would argue that this is not a luxury. Self-care is a necessity. Taking the time for your practice, especially a restorative and rejuvenating practice like this, is what you need to stay healthy and happy through the season. Enjoy MORE and not less when you invest some time for self-reflection, meditation and keeping your body fit and strong.
See you Saturday, bright and early!
