Winter, from an Ayurvedic point of view, is seen as Kapha season. As nature dictates, winter is a time when we are forced to slow down and change how we live and finding a balance can be challenging. In Ayurveda, we go with nature’s rhythms, not against the grain, and there are plenty of ways to help you find that balance. Drink a mug of hot water every morning upon waking and eat plenty of healthy, warm, cooked foods. Make sure you get out in nature for a 20-minute walk every day despite the weather. Keep moving; however, keep warm! Treat yourself to hot baths and time to tune in and restore your mind, body and soul. Invest in books, start a creative activity, call a friend, have plenty of warm, oily massages and keep going with your yoga practice. Here are two yoga poses that will help you through the winter months.

Phalakasana
Plank Pose

Start your morning practice with five minutes of Kappalabhati pranayama to awaken the senses and then six rounds of Sun Salutations A. Why not try slowing your practice down? However, make sure you keep warm. Before coming to chaturanga dandasana, hold plank pose for five deep breaths. Spread your fingers wide, grounding your hands and creating a strong foundation; make sure your wrists are in line with your shoulders, engage your core and push through your heels. Relax your face, find a spot to focus on whilst protecting your neck. This pose is a versatile pose that stretches, strengthens and lengthens; it’s energising, relaxing and helps with concentration whilst toning the body.

Balasana
Child’s Pose

A short, vigorous practice to keep us flexible, toned and mentally healthy during the winter months is important; however, so is the restorative part of our practice. A classic restorative pose is child’s pose. After flowing through more dynamic poses, come to sitting on your mat, grab a blanket/some cushions and enjoy taking the time to restore your energy. Bring your knees together, take a deep inhale, and on the exhale, fold forward and rest your forehead on your mat; use your cushion if you need to by placing it either underneath your forehead or in between your heels and your sit bones. Now take your blanket and envelop yourself in it, bring your arms by your sides and melt into this relaxing pose; you can stay for up to twenty minutes. This pose calms the mind and body, and it stretches the hips, thighs, lower back, ankles and knees. It’s accessible and can be practiced almost anywhere at any time.

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