Around the world, people are celebrating various traditions. Whether you are commemorating the Solstice or observing faith based holidays, December represents a time to connect with family and friends. It’s a great time to focus on joy, peace, and establishing rituals.
Whether you’re one of the lucky ones who get to spend more time with loved ones, take a trip back home, or go on a vacation somewhere far away or you find this time of year challenging, your yoga practice is always a safe haven. This time of year is a great reminder to focus on what is most important in life: love and connection. We’re here to remind you that taking the time to connect with your own heart will help you navigate this time of year.
The heart chakra is considered the seat of compassion and selfless love. According to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali in Sutra 1.33, the mind becomes peaceful and free when the qualities of the heart are cultivated. Patanjali suggests:
“Befriend the happy; have compassion for the unhappy; delight in the virtuous; be indifferent to the non-virtuous.”
In his commentary on Patanjali’s Sutras, Swami Satchidananda advises: These four keys should always be with you in your pocket. If you use the right key with the right person you will retain your peace. Nothing in the world can upset you then.”
Utilizing this sage recommendation, we can all enjoy the holidays, regardless of how we spend them. Use these four keys to handle those you are thrilled to connect with, as well as your difficult relatives across the dinner table. Focus on how we are all similar, as opposed to how we are divided.
Choose to enjoy each day of the holiday season, and this precious gift called life.
To support you in making the most out of this time of year, this week's four new classes have a more lighthearted, joyful, and celebratory tone to the practices. See your yoga this week as one celebration in your life, of what your healthy body is capable of enjoying.
1.Dana Smith - Hip Hip Hooray!
2. Claire Petretti Marti - Yummy Yoga Flow 4
3. Robert Sidoti - Yoga Flow Class
4. Christen Bakken - The Conditions for Joy