FREE 108 Mala Yoga Practice
Wednesday, December 21st
2-4pm
YAY, the winter solstice. The darkest day of the year, and an introduction to the winter season ahead (for many COLD winter season). Yet somehow, the winter solstice is also the start of the days getting longer, and bringing more sunlight and warmth into our lives. It is this balance of steeping in darkness yet welcoming the light that we embrace the changing of the seasons.
According to the Vedas — ancient Yogic texts recorded by the world’s earliest sages — the Sun “Surya” is not only the creator of all life but the sun is also considered the physical manifestation of the soul. The sun illuminates from within our true nature. This helps us cultivate compassionate connections with others, ourselves and the cosmic world. In essence, the celestial sun represents our “inner sun” – the dwelling place of higher wisdom and our true selves.Consequently, yogis have developed a variety of practices to worship the sun. Many that are still practiced daily in several parts of India.
Of those, the most well-known are the practice of Sun Salutations. Many of us practice Sun Salutations during our “yoga” practice to produce internal body heat. Because the quality of solar energy changes every 30 days, we can harness the energy of this powerful practice to deepen our personal and spiritual growth, as well as heal our bodies and minds.
Did you know that completing just one round of Sun Salutations the nervous system is flooded with solar energy? This energy balances emotions and increases higher cerebral activity.
So now you might be thinking, “How in the heck am I going to complete 108?!” Yogis, it doesn’t matter how many you do… you may complete all 108, or simply 25. It’s not important how many you do. Remember, yoga is not a competition. Your personal intention behind your practice is what really matters. If you show up and remember to breathe deeply and with intention you will be amazed at just how many you will be able to complete.
This 108 practice creates an enormous amount of upward flowing energy in the body, and as a result, stagnant or blocked energy and emotions will begin to move. Just acknowledge whatever comes up for you during your practice and be willing to let go of the things that no longer serve you. Only you have the power to shift your perspective.
With that in mind, it is also very important that you listen to your body during the practice! Take a break in Child’s Pose if you feel dizzy or tired, or modify poses when you begin to feel fatigued. You can always bring both knees down to the mat for Chaturanga or try a Baby Cobra instead of Upward Facing Dog. Please remember that taking a break or modifying your practice is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength. You are in tune with your body and that is a sign of emotional strength.
With each and every Sun Salutation, it is as if we orbit the sun and return back to earth (top of our mat) with our feet firmly grounded and our souls re-energized. However most importantly, we are one step closer to uncovering our ultimate purpose in this beautiful life. Surrender to your breath, let go of the fear and allow your inner intuition to guide you through the movements. I promise ~ you will be just fine!
No preregistration required~however, the door will be locked promptly at 6pm as not to disrupt the practice-so please arrive 10 minutes before the class begins.