Simple Self-Care: Easy, Yogic Rituals to Soothe the Nervous System

We know, we know - the whole self-care thing can feel a bit overdone these days, right? But here’s a little yoga secret: self-care doesn’t have to mean spa days or luxury holidays (though we wouldn’t say no). All that zen tends to disappear the moment the party’s over anyway. Real self-care is much simpler - it’s made up of soft, easy, everyday acts that gently remind your nervous system you’re safe, supported, and truly present.

In yoga philosophy, calm doesn’t come from control, but from surrender - accepting things as they are and trusting in the greater flow (known as Isvara pranidhana). We also find calm through the practices of santosha (contentment) and aparigraha (non-grasping): letting go of what we think we “should” be doing and finding softness and personal growth in simple, soothing rituals that fit our busy, modern lives.

Here are some ways to easily weave true self-care into your every day:

START THE DAY WITHOUT YOUR PHONE

No judgment, friends - we’ve all been there. That little blue screen is a quick way to spike your cortisol and kick-start the day. But what if, instead, you began with gentle rituals that invite your body into safety and softness? Easier said than done? Try making it harder to reach for that little stress machine. Grab an old-fashioned alarm clock and leave your phone somewhere far from your bedroom - the kitchen, maybe? When you wake up, take a few slow breaths, spend five minutes mindfully breathing or reflecting on something you’re grateful for. Enjoy a warm beverage, and then - maybe then - you can check your phone. Let your nervous system wake up slowly instead of jolting it straight into fight-or-flight.

SINGLE TASK SOMETHING SMALL

Choose one daily ritual – making your coffee, walking the dog, having a shower – and give it your full attention. Look around you, feel the textures, notice the sounds – and give yourself permission to fully be with it (even for a moment) like a mini meditation. In yogic philosophy, this is dharana – single pointed focus – which trains your mind to stay calm amidst chaos. Plus, research shows that mindfulness practices like this can reduce anxious rumination by about 30%, helping relax your monkey mind and ease stress.

MOVE GENTLY, CONSISTENTLY

Movement isn’t just for fitness - it’s one of the fastest ways to soothe your nervous system. Of course we want you to join us for a yoga, Pilates, or Qi Gong practice at the studio! But if you can’t make it, a slow roll down, a few stretches on your mat, a short walk outside, or a potter in the garden can all remind your brain that it’s safe to relax. In yoga, this is the embodiment of pranayama and asana (breath and movement) working together to find balance and ease.

SHARE A 20-SECOND HUG

It might sound corny (and perhaps not officially yogic, but definitely hippy dippy), but a long hug can have big effects. Research tells us that a 20-second hug releases oxytocin - the “bonding hormone” - which helps lower blood pressure, slow the heart rate, and ease stress. It’s a reminder that connection is regulation. Whether it’s with a loved one, a friend, or even your pet (if they’ll allow it!), those few seconds of closeness help you anchor and reset.

Rather than overhauling your life, pick one or two simple rituals and actually keep them. This is abhyasa – steady, consistent practice – and it’s what truly shifts your nervous system over time. 

Join the community Whatsapp group by messaging us on +61 448 023 431.

Reflections of the Heart: Embracing Gratitude in Life’s Flow

You’ve heard it before (perhaps to the point of cringe): gratitude is important. And we get it. We all want to be that yogi floating around, radiating happiness 24/7. But if gratitude doesn’t come naturally to you, rest assured that: a) there’s nothing wrong with you, and b) there are simple ways to nurture it - and we’re here to show you how.

Let’s get one thing straight: gratitude doesn’t come easily to most of us. And it makes sense! Our ancestors weren’t lying in bed sipping tea, writing in a gratitude journal. They were hunting, gathering, and scanning for tigers and bears. Pessimism and hyper-vigilance are part of our DNA - they kept us alive. Now, most of those “predators” are gone, yet our brains still tend toward worry, comparison, and feeling “less than.”

So how can we bring gratitude into our daily lives in a way that actually feels meaningful?

Practical gratitude

Mindfully savour: Pause during your day to notice and savour the good things. Maybe it’s the sun warming your skin, that first sip of coffee in the morning, or maybe you get a win at work. Instead of letting it pass you by, take a moment to really feel it. Linger in the good vibes for 20-30 seconds. It’s so easy and so effective!

Move: Use movement to embody gratitude. Yoga, Pilates, Qi Gong, or a simple daily walk. Moving your body helps anchor feelings of appreciation, allowing gratitude to be felt not just in your mind, but in your physicality as well.

End of day micro gratitude journalling: You don’t need to write a novel – this can be done in less than five minutes. Think 3,2,1: Three moments of joy from your day, two things you appreciate about yourself from the day, one moment you want to remember.

Imagine life without: Psychologists call this “mental subtraction,” and research shows it’s one of the most effective ways to boost gratitude. Imagining the absence of something good in your life instantly deepens appreciation. No need to get too stoic about it! Try picturing a life without your favourite dessert - or Pilates teacher. It might feel a little strange at first, but it’s surprisingly powerful.

Share it: Express gratitude to someone else - even a quick text can deepen your own sense of thankfulness.

Gratitude doesn’t have to be perfect, and you don’t need to feel it every minute of the day. Some days it will pop up effortlessly, and other days it might feel like a slog to muster up. And that’s okay. Even a few small pauses, noticing tiny joys, or reflecting on things you might normally take for granted can slowly shift your perspective on life. Over time, it all adds up, creating a sense of appreciation that follows you everywhere – in your home, work, and even on those mornings when your favourite Pilates teacher is away.

At Humane Yoga, we’re challenging our members to share one thing they’re grateful for each day. Members of the studio and community can message us on +61 448 023 431 to join the Whatsapp group.

Serenity & Stillness: Your Teacher-Tested Meditation & Breathwork Guide

Feeling frazzled? Pause for a moment. Allow your shoulders to soften, relax your jaw, and take a slow, easeful breath. That little shift you felt? That’s your body delighting in a moment of presence; its gentle reminder that we need stillness.

Life is fast. Work commitments, family responsibilities, and endless pings and dings add up! At Humane Yoga we love weaving little moments of calm into our classes – and seeing you carry that ease into everyday life.

Since you can’t be at the studio all day, every day, the good news is that meditation and breathwork are simple, free practices that can be done anywhere, anytime. And even five minutes can help regulate your body’s stress response, ease tension, and leave you feeling lighter.

Getting started is easier than you think

Contrary to popular belief, meditation isn’t about sitting perfectly still or emptying your mind – and just because your mind is racing, doesn’t mean you’re ‘bad at it’. It’s about just being there, showing up – just as you are.  

1.        Get comfy

You can sit on the floor, lie down, or even sit on a chair if that’s most comfortable. The goal isn’t perfect posture: it’s finding a position where you can relax and focus on your breath.

2.        Tailor your practice

There are so many different breathing and meditation techniques. Experiment with different styles, durations, and postures. There’s no single “right” way to practice.

3.        Integrate into your day

You don’t need an hour-long, formal practice every day. Leave your phone at home when you go for a walk and take slow, mindful steps. Feel the sensation of the warm, soapy water whilst doing the dishes. Small consistent practices build focus and presence.

4.        Use your breath

Try one of the breathing exercises from the studio at home, or go for this simple technique: Gently constrict the back of your throat until your breath becomes slightly audible (Ujjayi). Take 3-10 slow breaths like this to settle your nervous system.

5.        Use guidance when needed

Let’s be real – we’re living in a digital age, so why not use it to our advantage? Guided meditations and breathwork apps can provide structure, support, and inspiration – especially when you’re just starting out.

Teacher tips from Humane Yoga:

Robyn: “My favourite breath practice is humming breath – it instantly calms any stress and helps me recentre. For mediation, I love dropping the busyness of my mind down my spine, creating space and clarity. It always brings me a sense of peace and lightness.”

Angie: “Lately I’ve been loving box breathing – it really helps me stay calm and focused. And one of my favourite meditation practices is walking meditation. No music, no phone…just a slow, mindful walk with breath and nature awareness. It feels so nice to simply observe what’s around me.”

Jess: “It’s so easy to have our phones with us 24/7. I find the fastest way to presence is to just get outside, sans phone, and observe the world around me with no goal. And, conversely, I also love to listen to a yoga nidra on my phone when I’m feeling anxious or exhausted. I love using the Insight Timer meditation app.”

Justin: “I enjoy Chakra cleansing breath meditation. Once you’re grounded, place your hands over the sacral chakra, breathing in and out three times, then moving up to the solar plexus and again taking three breaths. Continue this process along the chakras until you reach the crown. Then sit with your hands on your thighs, palms facing up, breathing evenly. As you inhale, imagine red or orange grounding energy flowing up, and as you breathe out, imagine healing white energy flowing down. Continue for 5-10 minutes.”

Meditation and breathwork don’t have to be perfect – and sometimes, when the monkey mind is racing, they can even feel a little stressful. But stay curious, and allow yourself to be with whatever arises. Even a few minutes a day can support your nervous system, boost mental clarity, and, ultimately, make daily stresses feel more manageable. Start small, be consistent, and let each session remind you that greater calm is often just a breath (or two or three) away.

This month at Humane Yoga, we’re focusing on incorporating meditation and breathwork into our daily lives by committing to ten minutes a day. Join the challenge through the Whatsapp group – Message us on +61 448 023 431 to join!

Sleep & Rest Revolution: Reclaiming the Power of Deep Rest

Last month at Humane Yoga, we explored winter’s warmth with slow movement, hot drinks, and grounding rituals. This month, we’re turning the lights down (literally) and inviting you to rest.

We’re calling it a Sleep & Rest Revolution. Because in a world that glamorises hustle and bustle, choosing deep rest is a little bit radical.

Now, don’t get us wrong – we’re not talking about the kind of rest where you’re mindlessly scrolling till the wee hours. And not just your smart watch’s ‘sleep score’. But real, bone-deep rest. The kind that isn’t measured by something external, but that you feel.

Why rest matters (like, really matters)

We treat rest like a reward – something to get to after completing the ‘to-do’ list. But what if rest wasn’t something to be earned, but something to prioritise?

In yoga, rest isn’t laziness (in fact, sometimes it can require great effort – especially if your monkey mind is racing!). Rest is where transformation happens – the aha moments in Child’s Pose, and the bliss of Savasana.

The research agrees: quality sleep supports digestion, hormones, focus, immunity, and emotional resilience. It’s about how you feel, not just how much you get done.

August’s challenge: Sleep hygiene

This month at the studio, our challenge is all about Sleep Hygiene.

We’re encouraging small habits that help your body and brain wind down at night, like:

• Exposure to early morning sunlight

• Consistent bedtime (yep, even on the weekend)

• Calming pre-sleep rituals like stretching or sipping herbal tea

• Cutting back on blue light an hour before bed (try reading or candlelight instead)

These support your circadian rhythm - your body’s internal clock for sleep, energy, and mood.

Listening to your body (even if it ‘breaks the rules’)

Yoga, Pilates, and Qi Gong teach us to feel - to tune into the subtle messages your body sends.

And yet, we often don’t listen. We push through exhaustion, ignore yawns, and become obsessed with schedules – even when what we really need is to just go to bed.

Yes, routines help. But if your alarm goes off on Saturday morning to ‘keep your wake-up time’ consistent and your body is begging for a sleep in? Let it bloody sleep in! That’s wisdom, not failure.

If watching a cheesy sitcom in bed helps you unwind, go for it. Or - maybe take a night off screens, swap to candlelight and tea, and see how you feel.

You don’t have to follow rules (that’s what a revolution is for). You can tune in and explore what works. Not because we told you to, but because it ultimately feels good.

Ancient wisdom on rest

Ayurveda calls sleep a pillar of health, as nourishing and essential as what we eat.

Traditional Chinese Medicine sees night as yin time – time for stillness and inward reflection. Fighting against the yin leads to imbalance, anxiety, or burnout.

Both agree: deep rest isn’t a luxury. It’s medicine.

Rest is more than sleep

Rest includes physical, sensory, and mental breaks. Time off phones and mental stimulation, legs up the wall, silence, journalling, or permission not to get everything done today. Some days you need all of these - and that’s okay.

As Jeff Foster reminds us in his book, The Way of Rest:

“Oh, sweet little boy, beloved little girl, you are so overwhelmed by life, I know...You feel so pressed down sometimes...by all the information you are supposed to process and hold, by the urgency of things. ..

You are exhausted, you long to rest. And that is not a failing of yours, nor a horrible mistake, but something wonderful to embrace! For the exhaustion is pure intelligence, and it says, let go, let go! Stop trying so hard! Stop pushing for answers right now. Allow everything to rest right now.

Take a sacred pause. Allow questions to remain unanswered, for now. Allow space for yourself to breathe today. Allow everything to fall out of control today. Allow yourself to not be able to hold it all up today. Allow yourself to not know how, to not know at all. Allow the heart to break, if it needs to, and the body to ache, and the soul to wake. Everything is so okay, when you get down to it. So okay, here. And know you are loved, little one. Know you have always been loved, long before you were named, long before you were even born, long before overwhelm came to show you the way.”

In these final, precious moments of winter, may you rest deeply, rise slowly, and remember: The revolution doesn’t always look like action. Sometimes it looks like a big ol’ nap!

At Humane Yoga, we’re tuning into the season’s invitation to create space for real rest. If you’re a Humane Yoga student and want to join our Sleep & Rest Revolution challenge – message us on +61 448 023 431 to join the Whatsapp group.

Wintering Well: Nourishment, Hydration, and Heart (plus a yummy chai recipe)

Last month, the Humane Yoga community hit pause on the scroll. We looked up from our screens, became more present, and remembered the magic of noticing what’s going on IRL. 

And now, with winter in full swing, we’re invited to take that intention even deeper.

This is the season for slow sips, warm food, and the kind of hashtag selfcare that you don’t have to post on instagram. Simple things: fluids, food, and rituals that carry us through. 

To guide us, we look to ancient wisdom: Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine both honour winter as a time for rest, warmth, and gentle nourishment. Because in a world that tells us to Google it, hack it, or ask ChatGPT, caring for ourselves calls for something a little older and wiser. 

Sip slowly to nourish deeply

Hydration in winter doesn’t always feel urgent. Unlike summer, we’re not sweating buckets, and that cool air can dull your thirst. But both Ayurveda and TCM remind us that winter’s cold, dry energy can leave us feeling tired but wired (think the airy energy of wind plus the sluggishness that comes from the chill). 

This is where the cuppas come in, and who doesn’t love a hot beverage on a cold day? Think herbal teas, spiced milks (like chai and matcha), and nourishing broths and misos to protect your inner warmth. Bonus: if you’re feeling overwhelmed, sometimes stopping, making yourself a nice warm drink, and taking the time to savour is just what you need to ground. 

Food that feeds more than hunger

Winter calls for foods that hydrate and nourish. Ayurveda suggests warm, moist, and grounding meals - like cooked grains, steamed veggies, slow cooked casseroles, and warming spices. 

TCM highlights yin-nourishing foods like pears, seaweed, and bone-broth to keep the body moist and support kidney health during the cooler months. 

Both traditions remind us to choose foods that warm, soothe and hydrate - not just fill (step away from that potato). 

Rituals and little acts of self care

Rituals don’t have to be elaborate. Sometimes it’s the small, simple things that anchor you to the moment. Prepare a warm drink in the morning (even if it’s to go), sit in the midday sun, or light a candle in the evening. 

If you’re keen to get a little more indulgent, Ayurveda suggests abhyanga - a warm oil self-massage that soothes the nervous system and nourishes dry winter skin (check out this blog post for more on abhyanga plus other Ayurvedic tips for winter). 

Keep moving

Winter tempts us to slow down - but stillness doesn’t have to mean stagnation. 

Gentle, intentional movement soothes the mind and hydrates your fascia - the connective tissue supporting your physical and emotional wellbeing.

Think of fascia like a sponge: dry and tight it feels stiff; hydrated and supple, it moves with ease. Yoga, Yin yoga, Qi Gong, and Pilates use mindful movement to nourish fascia and keep your body’s energy flowing smoothly - helping you feel calm, connected, and nourished all season long.

At Humane Yoga, we’re here to support you through the season with cozy classes, mindful movement, and a community that gets it. So, take this winter as your invitation to show up for yourself with kindness and intention. And don’t forget to stay hydrated, yogis!

AYURVEDIC GOLDEN CHAI RECIPE

A soul-soothing blend of turmeric, chai spices, and adaptogens for balance and bliss.

Ingredients (1-2 servings)

• 1½ cups your choice of milk (coconut works beautifully)

• ½ cup water

• 1 tsp turmeric powder

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tsp fresh, grated ginger

• 1 pinch black pepper (enhances turmeric absorption)

• 1–2 cardamom pods, lightly crushed (or ¼ tsp ground cardamom)

• 1 whole clove

• 1 small piece of star anise or ¼ tsp fennel seeds (great for digestion)

• ½ tsp ashwagandha powder (optional for extra calm)

• 1 tsp ghee or coconut oil (optional - adds healthy fats & aids absorption)

• 1 tsp maple syrup or raw honey* (to taste)
  

  *Add honey only after heating 

Method

1. In a small saucepan, combine milk and water.

2. Add turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, pepper, and any other spices you're using. Whisk well.

3. Warm over medium heat, stirring often. Let it gently simmer (don’t boil) for 5 - 7 minutes to allow the spices to infuse.

4. Remove from heat. Stir in ghee (or coconut oil), ashwagandha, and honey.

5. Strain if needed. Froth it up or blend for a silky texture.

6. Pour into your favourite mug and sip slowly. Optional: sprinkle with a little cinnamon on top.

Press Pause: Presence, philosophy and putting your phone down

‘Being present’ sounds pretty good in theory, doesn’t it? But in practice it’s so easy to lose yourself to the scroll, the never-ending to-do list, and the constant anticipations of the future. 

We get it - life is full. And then, ironically, we find ourselves scrambling for something to fill those rare spacious moments. Yes - even rest can feel scary when your mind is spinning, your phone’s buzzing, and your nervous system’s in overdrive. 

But - presence isn’t about having it all perfectly together. It’s about crafting tiny moments of stillness amidst the mess - even if that feels a little uncomfortable. With presence, you might find yourself moving through all of the same routines but with more acceptance - as though living your life on purpose. 

5 Philosophies That Help Us Find Presence (and how to use them)

1. Yoga Philosophy - Dharana
Dharana is the yogic practice of focused attention. It’s not about blocking everything else out. It’s about gently guiding your mind back to one thing at a time. Your breath. Your body. The sound of the kettle boiling.
Try this: Next time you make a cuppa, give it your full attention. No phone, no multitasking. Just breathe, pour, sip, and notice.

2. Minimalism - Less to focus on = More to notice
Minimalism invites us to do (and own) less, so we can experience more. The same goes for our digital lives. Constant notifications and endless scrolling make it hard to land in the moment.
Try this: Do a digital detox. Log off socials for a chosen amount of time or delete one app that drains your attention. You might use some of your newfound time to clean out your inbox or your ‘miscellaneous’ drawer, creating small pockets of calm in your life. 

3. Mindfulness - Be where your feet are
Mindfulness isn’t about doing things perfectly. It’s about being in the moment without trying to change or fix things.
Try this: Take one moment each day to feel your feet on the ground. Habit stack it around something you already do, like walking the dog or taking a shower. Before you start, just take two or three breaths as you sense into your feet connecting with the earth. What else can you notice? Check out this recent blog for more mindfulness tips. 

4. Stoicism - Let go of control
This ancient philosophy encourages us to let go of what we can’t change and put our energy where it counts. It’s beautifully grounding, especially when life feels overwhelming.
Try this: Feeling scattered? Make a quick list of what’s actually within your control today. You can’t control the weather, but you can control your to-do-lists, behaviour, and breath. Focus there.

5. Seasonal Living - Embrace winter’s invitations
Winter is nature’s call to slow down, rest, and turn inward. Aligning with this rhythm helps you feel more grounded and present instead of fighting against the natural flow.

Try this: Give yourself permission to pause and rest a little more than usual. Maybe that means lighting a candle, curling up with a book, or taking a gentle stretch before bed. Notice how leaning into winter’s slower pace supports your body and mind right now.

At Humane Yoga, we’re heeding winter’s call to slow down, set boundaries, and enjoy a little less screen time (especially now that sweet sun is shining again!). To join our June Digital Detox Challenge and win prizes, keep in touch with the Whatsapp group. Message us on +61 448 023 431 to join!

Winter Wellness: Moving Through the Chill With Pilates and Purpose

We get it - The mornings are dark, your doona is cosy, and a cuppa in bed is infinitely more appealing than movement. But we can still go slow, honouring the beautiful invitations of winter, without shutting down. It’s all about intention, and that’s where Pilates comes in. 

This low-impact, high-awareness practice is the ultimate antidote to winter sluggishness. You’ll be warmed from the inside out as you build strength, and reconnect with your body - even if cooler weather leaves you feeling a bit stiff. 

The attention to detail and focus on the breath creates a potent and strong practice that’s perfect for waking up sleepy joints, improving circulation, and boosting your mood (even before you’re caffeinated). 

A regular Pilates practice sets a strong foundation for creating a sense of attention, direction, and mindfulness in other areas of your life. So, here are some ways you can take those juicy Pilates philosophies off the mat and into your world for optimum wellness this winter. 

7 purposeful winter practices to keep you well

1. Persistence, not punishment

Go for mindful movement a few times a week over one hectic session that leaves you aching and burnt out. 

2. Warm from the inside out

Yogic breathing practices (like Viloma Pranayama) help to heat your body from the inside out. And - the core-focused movement you’ll find in Pilates boosts circulation and builds internal fire - sweat free. 

3. Look at the bigger picture

Movement is just one layer of your winter wellness. Add warming drinks, nourishing meals, and restful rituals to your daily rhythms (check out this blog on cosy winter rituals for inspo). 

4. Space for stillness

Winter is the perfect time to embrace stillness - and it’s when we need it most. Can you take just five minutes out of every day to take some deep breaths away from the screen and settle your nervous system?

5. Seek the sunshine 

We’re so lucky here in the Northern Rivers of Australia - where the sun shines abundantly in winter (fingers crossed!). Make the most of it and support your circadian health by getting into that morning light as much as you can. Bonus points if you leave your phone at home. 

6. Enjoy a sleepy stretch

Get in the habit of indulging in some stretches before bed. A few minutes of legs-up-the-wall or a quick Sleeping Swan before slumber will do wonders for your joints and help to improve your rest. You might even feel more motivated to join us on the mat the next morning. 

7. Listen to your body, and connect to your ‘why’

Let your body guide your practice. Got to bed late and need a lie in? No worries! Feel like Yin’s about as hard as you want to go this week? We’ve got you. Or - maybe you’re feeling the call to find deeper strength, stability, and support in your body to carry you through those tender days. Then come to Pilates! 

What we love about Pilates is that, like yoga, it meets you where you’re at. So, come as you are! Pop on your grippy socks, roll out your mat, and give your body what it really wants this winter: intention over intensity. We promise to put the heaters on!

The Importance of Strength and Stability: In Yoga and Beyond

Strength isn’t just about upping your weights in the gym or holding your side-plank with ease. And stability is more than nailing your dancer’s-pose for that perfect beach insta shot (without face-planting in the sand). Whether on your yoga mat, in the gym, in Pilates, or out in the world, strength and stability are about resilience, balance, and the ability to face challenges with ease and grace. 

Why strength matters

My own relationship with strength has evolved over time (Hi, it’s me - Jess!). When I was younger, my strength goals were often about aesthetics. Now, as I mature, it feels more important to maintain strength as a way to prevent injury and support my body as I get older. That’s part of what has inspired me towards Pilates in recent times. I love how it challenges my strength and stability in new ways. It's been really beautiful to feel that shift as my practices begin to focus more on my internal world than my external one.

Of course, building strength isn’t just about physical fitness - it’s about feeling empowered in your body and mind. My fellow Humane Yoga teacher, Anjie, shares a similar sentiment: "Aside from yoga, I go to the gym 3 - 4 times a week for strength training and cardio exercises, balancing these with yoga sessions in between. Incorporating both into my routine has been incredibly beneficial for my overall strength, stability, and endurance."

Life can be demanding, am I right?! Work, family, responsibilities. But when we feel physically strong, we can handle those demands with more energy and presence. As Anjie puts it, "As a busy working mum, maintaining this balance has become more than just a fitness routine; it’s a lifestyle. It helps me feel stronger, more energised, and more present for both myself and my family."

Finding stability, on and off the mat

Stability isn’t just about core strength or holding those fancy balances - it’s about grounding yourself so you can move through life with more confidence and ease. Robyn, our lovely Humane Yoga Founder, shares her approach: "The practice that’s had the biggest impact on my strength and stability has been a combination of Pilates, Yang yoga, walking, Yin, and meditation. Pilates and Yang give me physical strength and core stability, but walking clears my mind and helps me reconnect with nature and rhythm. Yin teaches me to slow down and listen, and meditation is the glue - it reminds me where my true centre is."

Strength looks different every day

Let’s be real - strength doesn’t always mean pushing harder. Sometimes, the strongest thing you can do is choose rest. Sometimes, stability means knowing when to soften. Real strength is the ability to meet yourself where you are, without judgment, and move from that place with kindness.

Mindfulness Is Everywhere: But What Does It Actually Mean? And How Can You Reap the Rewards?

Mindfulness has been having a moment for a while now. Once a hippy trippy practice for those on the fringes of society, the buzzword now infiltrates our screens - from meditation apps to reels on how to breathe, this spiritual practice has become part of mainstream society. 

But - like anything that’s having its time in the spotlight, it’s easy to throw it around without really understanding what it means. 

So, what is mindfulness? And more importantly - how do we actually experience its benefits without turning it into yet another shallow trend?

Spoiler alert: It’s not about achieving enlightenment or perfecting yourself. It’s simply discovering what brings you into the moment. No fancy props necessary!

Mindfulness is simpler than you think

At its core, mindfulness is being in the present. It’s the difference between absentmindedly scrolling while scoffing down your breakfast and actually tasting your food. It’s actively listening when someone speaks, whilst turning down the volume on the inner voice that’s waiting for its turn. It’s feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin as you put your laundry on the line instead of auto-piloting your way through the day. 

And the benefits are real! Mindfulness has been shown to:

• Reduce stress and anxiety

• Improve focus and productivity

• Enhance sleep quality

• Strengthen relationships

You don’t even need to live in a cave and grow dreadlocks to do it properly!

 3 small (aka easy) ways to practice mindfulness

1. The one-minute reset

One mindful minute can change the colour of your day. So pause. Breathe. Notice what’s happening around you. It’s as simple as that. 

2. The 5-senses scan

Take a moment in your day to try this:

• What can you see?

• What can you hear?

• What can you feel?

• What can you smell?

• What can you taste?

Go on - give it a try right now. 

3. Mindful movement

Mindfulness isn’t just about being still. A slow walk (sans phone!)  in the morning, a deep breath between emails, or a simple stretch before bed can all bring you back to the now. 

Want more? Try these to really go deep

If you’re craving something a little more structured and intentional, these practices will help you cultivate even more presence and awareness. 

Yoga: Presence through breath and flow

More than just a physical practice, yoga invites us to slow down and listen - to our breath, our body, and our thoughts. Whether it’s a yang sequence or a still, yin pose, yoga asks you to see and accept yourself in the present moment - without the distractions of everyday life. 

Pilates: Presence through precision and control

You’ve heard a million times that yoga is not just about the physical - but we can learn a spiritual lesson or two from Pilates too. You see, Pilates is all about intention and direction. Each movement is focused and deliberate, making it a potent practice for improving awareness and connecting body and mind. 

Qi Gong: Presence through energy and stillness

With its meditative movements, deep breathing, and energetic attention, Qi Gong reminds us to tune into life’s subtleties. As we synchronise movement with intention, we cultivate a heightened sensitivity to our body’s energy, the shifting sensations within us, and the world around us. 

Breathwork: The simplest way to shift your state

Something as simple as slowing your breath can shift your entire nervous system. Try this quick square breath to reset: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds, and hold again for 4 seconds. Repeat a few times and feel the difference.

Mindfulness isn’t just for you - It’s for everyone else!

Finally, mindfulness isn’t about retreating from the world (we joke when we say it’s all about the personal benefits!). When we cultivate presence our friends, family and community can feel it. Even your dog will thank you. So go on - pop your phone down and look around. We bet it all looks more beautiful now. 

Self-Love Secrets: A Yogic Approach

Self-care is everywhere! From extravagant skincare routines to splurging on luxury items we don’t really need, the message is clear: put yourself first, you deserve it! And hey, taking care of yourself is essential. But isn’t yoga designed to guide us beyond the self? Does our obsession with self-care lose sight of the bigger picture? 

Originally, yoga had nothing to do with individual perfectionism. It was a practice of devotion, connection, and seeing ourselves as part of something greater. In today’s world, however, wellness can sometimes feel like just another way to focus on “me, myself, and I.”

Don’t get us wrong - a yummy yoga session, practical Pilates practice, or mindful Qi Gong movement can feel great. But these practices offer more than personal benefits; they cultivate awareness, mindfulness, and compassion - qualities that ripple outward to positively impact those around us. 

However, when our practices are focused on luxury and indulgence, we miss the opportunity for growth. True wellbeing is about using what we learn to show up for others, build relationships, and contribute to the world around us. 

Many of the struggles we face - from burnout to loneliness and anxiety - aren’t just personal issues to evolve your way out of; but a result of disconnection. And no amount of fancy self-care is going to resolve that. 

Maybe true self-love isn’t about perfecting or “fixing” yourself. Maybe it’s about expanding your perspective, supporting your community, and realising that healing doesn’t have to be a solo journey. 

How our community is embracing Self-Love this month

As part of Self-Love February at Humane Yoga, we’re exploring ways to nurture ourselves while staying connected to the world around us. Here’s how our community is practising self-love in meaningful, sustainable ways:

• Restorative yoga & yoga nidra for deep relaxation

• Connecting with the inner child through internal reflection and playful practices

• Making space for creativity - through art, music, and movement

• Completing tasks that have been on the backburner to create mental clarity

• Prioritising sleep-ins & rest to reset the nervous system

• Spending time in nature to ground and reset

• Letting go of busy-ness and embracing stillness

• Embracing healthy boundaries and saying “no”

• Daily affirmations & self-kindness rituals to cultivate compassion and peace

• Dancing with friends to celebrate joy and connection

• Massage and mindful movement to release tension and stress

Self-love isn’t about isolation—it’s about recharging so we can show up more fully for ourselves and those around us. By weaving true self-love into our everyday lives, we can create a more balanced, compassionate world - together.