As I was playing around on Spotify this week, I came across a rather appropriate song: "Spring (Among the Living)" by My Morning Jacket. I have to admit, the only time I have ever heard any music by My Morning Jacket was on an old episode of American Dad a few years ago. After digging at bit deeper (thanks Google!) I read this review of the song by Rhiannon Rosas: "The message behind the song is that people like to stay inside during the winter, similar to how animals like to hibernate during the winter. The song also makes it clear that spring is the time to start roaming again." Ain't that the truth?!?! As nature moves out of the cold, wet, dark winter toward spring, the earth warms, blossoms begin to appear and the pulse of life quickens. Nature makes it look smooth, but for us humans it’s not as easy to transition gracefully from one season to the next—especially from winter to spring. Just like the bear comes out of hibernation, we often find ourselves feeling heavy and sluggish as we head into the spring. Our yoga practices both on and off the mat are a perfect way to create harmony with the seasons through acts of mindfulness and devotion. All you have to do is look around to be inspired at this time of year; renewal and transformation are literally welling up from the ground. The natural world is going through a rebirth, and so can we! For some, this may mean turning to prayer or silently devoting your daily yoga practice to nature. An easy starting place is with Sun Salutations, and our Masterclass this month will focus on both traditional and variations of this yoga staple. Your efforts to connect to nature can also go beyond the edges of your yoga mat. Head outdoors to a place of beauty and observe a period of silence. Slow down to examine the buds and shoots poking out in your neighborhood—if you visit them over several days and see them bloom! If your mat has been rolled up in the corner during the winter months, now is a great time to get back on it! This month I've added a Tuesday night Power Yoga class and Monday night classes are back! See you on the mat! ~Cyndy |
