Spring is officially here and transitioning gracefully from one season to the next can be a bit of a challenge — especially from winter to spring when most of us are still feeling sluggish or “stuck” from being cooped up indoors. As the seasons change our bodies change, so it’s important that we don’t become stagnant. We need to create balance and healthy circulation in order to move with the seasons. Think of the changing of seasons as time for renewal, a time to wipe the slate, undo some habits and start anew. This constant shedding as the seasons change help us to let go so we continue to grow and transform.
Quick Tip from Elena Brower:
“We have the opportunity to tap into the real alchemy that occurs in our own bodies during this season of transition and growth,” Elena says. “That helps us see that healing and renewal is happening all around us, as much as within us.”
Elena also suggests going outside to meditate, and meditating with open eyes. “Looking at nature with a soft gaze allows the colors and shades of spring to sink into our awareness,” she says. “Take in as much light as you can, and feel its nourishment.”
Ready for an internal renewal? This week’s featured classes will restore and balance your body, mind and spirit so you can renew your commitment to your wellness, to your heart and to yourself.
- Spring Fever with Amy Ippoliti: Get into the spring spirit with a flow that will move you, gently wake your winter body out of its slump, and help you welcome the new warmth of the sun. Even if you live in a place without seasons, enjoy this practice to help get your creative juices flowing. A nice steady pace that is gentle on your body. Props Needed: A blanket and a strap.
- Springtime Flow with Stephanie Snyder: According to Ayurveda (which yogis reference as a guide for the sick and healthy) this is the natural time for shedding the winter layer that can accumulate and create imbalance physically, mentally and emotionally. Re-calibrate and rejuvenate through a cleansing and inspiring sequence.
- Spring Awake with Giselle Mari: We all need a little awakening from time to time. What better time than Spring to be reminded of our possibilities? Wake up what has been dormant with thigh and hamstring openers, balancing poses and twists. Props Needed: A block, blanket and a strap.
- Cobra Series for Spring Vitality with Felicia Tomasko: Your immune system can use some extra TLC in the Spring. Using the principles of Ayurveda, begin with a cobra-inspired sequence that incorporates twists and poses to awaken your upper chest and lung region to help cultivate what this healing tradition sees as the intelligence of your body. Use pranayama or breathing techniques known traditionally to strengthen your body’s defense systems so you can protect and nourish in this transitional time of year. Props Suggested: A blanket.
- Spring Detox with Elena Brower: Spring Detox: twist-centric practice geared towards making space and fullness in your emotional and physical body in order to enable you to release any doubt, fear or frustration from your world. Standing twists, hip openers, backbends, savasana and brief meditation
