Dear Friends,
We hope you took advantage of our call to restart or reinvigorate your pranayama practice this Autumn. It is a subtle and yet profound cleansing process we can engage in.
This season is the time to cleanse the lungs and large intestine. This is not the time to live it up and binge on food, drink and stimulation as many of us are encouraged to do during the holidays.
We are passing through the darkest days of the year; the time of ultimate introspection, reflection and receptivity, currently dominated by the air element which can quickly fall out of balance when the air is cold and dry. Air is stimulated by bright light and quick conversation; the kind you might have at holiday parties and gatherings.
Some simple ideas to help you stay grounded during this transition time around the Winter Solstice on December 21st through the end of the year.
1. Practice grounding pranayama practices like Ujjayi II and Viloma II. Concentrate on the exhalation.
2. Practice grounding yoga poses like standing poses, forward bends, inversions and restorative poses. Stay close to the earth.
3. Eat grounding whole foods like root vegetables, nuts & seeds, and grains.
4. De-emphasize alcohol, sugar and stimulants like caffeine.
5. Practice selfless service, compassion, joy, kindness and empathy.
We are saddened to learn of the death of Dr. Geeta S. Iyengar. Her contributions to the Art and Science of Yoga are paramount. Her gift to us is the dedicated practice of yoga and we encourage you all to re-dedicate your practice this year. We are so lucky to have had the example of her studentship and her unparalleled teaching. Read her obituary on our website.
With gratitude for dedicated students, teachers, and for your support,
Sara Agelasto