Using Yoga to Find Stability Amid Seasonal Change
October 21, 2024“The trees are about to show us just how beautiful it can be to let things go.” – Unknown.
As the summer heat cools to crisp autumn air and the leaves begin to fall from the trees, we are reminded of the beauty that comes with change. Nature’s transition is an invitation to follow suit – letting go of expectations, stress, or whatever we hold on to that only weighs us down. While the unknown can feel scary, the practice of yoga is here to aid in embracing change, helping us stay grounded during times of transition.
Letting Go
In yogic philosophy, the Sanskrit word “Vairagya” translates to “detachment” or “dispassion.” It refers to the practice of non-attachment to the external world, whether it’s possessions, relationships, or outcomes. Fall is an invitation to practice vairagya, letting go of whatever is weighing you down, and creating space to welcome and embrace the present moment. Even something as small as setting an intention to let go of what no longer serves you can have a powerful impact.
Staying Grounded
As the seasons change from summer to fall, shorter days and shifts in routine can leave us feeling unsettled. Grounding practices anchor us in the present moment, bringing a sense of stability and peace.
Staying grounded can be as simple as connecting feet to earth, physically grounding down to land in the present moment. Incorporating poses like Tadasana (Mountain pose) or Vrikshasana (Tree pose) into your asana practice can act as a reminder that even amidst change, we are steady.
Connecting to the Breath
The seasonal change is also a reminder for introspection, using our breath to find balance. Intentional breathwork, like diaphragmatic breathing, calls us into the present moment, calming the mind and body. A mindful practice like Nadi Shodhana, alternative nostril breathing, brings balance to the left and right sides of the brain, which can aid in reducing stress and anxiety. Each breath becomes an opportunity for grounding, creating space for reflection.
Fall is a time to turn inward, embrace stillness, and appreciate the beauty of transition. Just as the seasons change, so do we. The practice of yoga creates space to let go of what no longer serves us, stay grounded, and come back to the breath.