In Yoga, there's no Right or Wrong

MEET OUR TEACHERS: INTRODUCING MAXIME

Our darling Maxime has been with Humane Yoga since 2022.

Hailing from Belgium, she grew up in Europe and brings a wealth of experience to our sweet little studio. She has a professional background in sociology, education, counseling, gestalt therapy, yoga, and horsemanship, which she weaves seamlessly into her classes.

Maxime is passionate about helping her students to thrive from a place of empowerment - both on and off the mat. If you’ve spent time in Maxime’s classes, you’ll know she approaches the practice of yoga with great respect. With an in-depth knowledge of the body and human psychology, Maxime has a special skill for inspiring students to move, with self-kindness and compassion, towards a healthier body and mind.

You can expect to leave a practice with Maxime feeling confident, inspired, and nourished. 

We sat down for a chat with Maxime so you can get to know her better. 

How did you discover yoga? 

I discovered yoga after a couple of challenging years in my early twenties. I left my home country to come back to a balanced sense of self, and discovered yoga only four weeks after I left. I signed up for two months at a yoga community and never looked back. 

How did you become a yoga teacher?

In Australia I signed up for a Certificate IV with Byron Yoga Centre and felt inspired to specialise in yoga therapy and trauma-informed yoga.

Nowadays I integrate yoga in my own daily practice to support my own mental and physical health, but also in my mental health support sessions with students and participants.

Where did you train to teach yoga and what was your experience like?

I started with yoga in Central-America and then continued to practice with a variety of studios and teachers. I felt inspired and "at home" when I started practicing Tantric Hatha Yoga and then continued with a variety of trainings to specialise in yoga for trauma, depression, body image, and in yoga therapy for specific diagnoses and health issues. 

If you could go back and give your beginner yogi self one piece of advice, what would it be? 

I think I could learn a lot from my beginner yogi self. The first year that I practiced yoga, I had a lot of space and time to fully dedicate to my practice. The challenge these days is to practice all the teachings and wisdom yoga offers me, in day to day life, filled with distractions and challenges related to society, my personal life and professional life.

The advice that I would give to anyone in their early days of yoga practice is that there is no right or wrong when it comes to yoga. Many people enter a yoga space assuming they can be “good” or “bad” at it. But this is not the point of a yoga practice. Yoga is a state of being, and you can be in relationship with it, or you can choose not to be in a relationship with it. The fruits of yoga are experienced through regular practice, but that doesn’t mean that not practising regularly is a failure. So, I believe there is no right or wrong in yoga - there is only curiosity, enquiry, and practice. 

As a yoga teacher, what is one question or comment you frequently receive, and how do you respond? 

Mostly I receive questions about a yoga practice can support specific health issues, whether they are physical health challenges (eg. sleeping difficulties, asthma, lower back pain, etc.) or mental/emotional health issues (eg. anxiety, depression, trauma, body image issues, etc.). 

When dealing with emotional and physical challenges, I advise depending on the ailment, but I always try to remind my students that holistic health begins with awareness. An increased awareness can help us to realise that we can have thoughts, feelings and sensations - but we are not defined by them. 

How do you integrate the teachings/philosophies of yoga into your everyday life? 

By really understanding that the only constant in life is change, reminding myself that with time and practice the dark night will pass, and in those times consciously practising gratitude to really appreciate life. I believe the purpose of life is simple - we’re here to live, to support each other, and to love. Yoga isn’t a panacea for all that ails us, but I’m really glad it’s part of my toolkit and I believe it helps me not only to survive but to thrive. 

Check the timetable to see when you can Maxime on the mat - teaching Yang (Hatha), Yin, and Sculpt. 

Sunshine Serenity: Yogic Rituals to Prepare for Summer

As the silly season approaches, we also welcome the glory of summer. The sun’s rays become more potent, the beach beckons, and the air is filled with the promise of adventure. Tis the season of barbecues, family-fun in the sun, and endless blue skies. But amidst the joy and warmth of this festive time of year, it’s crucial to prepare your body and mind to fully savour the delights of the season. And what better way to prepare than through the ancient wisdom of yoga? 

Don’t forget the Yin

Sometimes, we’re so keen to throw ourselves into the inviting Yang of Summer, that we neglect the soft, slow, and necessary energy of Yin. In Chinese Medicine, preparing for summer includes nurturing the Yin energy to maintain equilibrium as the season unfolds. This involves incorporating practices like acupuncture, Yin yoga, and herbal remedies, such as Shatavari, Ginseng, Lily Bulb, Rehmannia, and Chrysanthemum, which are known for their cooling and Yin-nourishing properties. These herbs play a pivotal role in replenishing Yin energy in the body and counteracting the heat and dryness associated with the summer season. Dietary adjustments also facilitate the sweet transition from spring to summer. Think hydrating, cooling foods like watermelon, cucumber, and mint. 

Though it can be tempting to throw yourself into the vibrant energy of summer, make sure to incorporate slow, mindful practices into daily life to foster an internal state of coolness, which helps to ensure a harmonious transition to the warmer months. 

Stay cool with Pranayama

The practice of Pranayama, or breath control, is one of yoga’s most valuable gifts. Pranayama is a wonderful tool for finding physical and mental calm. As temperatures (and sometimes stresses) rise, cooling breath techniques like Sheetali and Sheetkari pranayama can help you stay calm and maintain your body’s equilibrium. Simply roll your tongue or purse your lips and breathe in as though you’re sipping through a straw, then exhale through your nose. This invites a refreshing breeze of inner coolness whenever the external world heats up.

Hydrate with Ayurvedic wisdom

As the sunshine bathes us in warmth, drawing upon the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda can help us maintain inner balance as we transition to the sometimes scorching months. Consider incorporating cooling herbal teas like chamomile, mint, and fennel (best consumed at room temperature). These cooling and soothing herbal concoctions help to reduce internal heat and keep that Yin energy nourished. Ayurveda also emphasises the use of self-massage with cooling oils like coconut or aloe vera. This practice keeps your skin refreshed and hydrated, whilst promoting a sense of inner coolness. 

The healing power of yoga

MEET OUR TEACHERS: INTRODUCING RICK

The lovely Rick has been with Humane Yoga since the early days. If you’ve practised at our studio you’ll fondly remember Rick for his calm and gentle nature, approachable teaching style, and commitment to the traditions of hatha yoga. We sat down with Rick so that you, our beautiful community, can get to know him better.

How did you discover yoga, and what has kept you coming back to the practice?

My yoga practice started 20 years ago. I was living in the bush, helping run my partner’s family farm. I'd re-injured my back and a neighbour suggested I check out the town’s yoga classes and meet the ‘guru.’ I'd practiced and studied Tai Chi years before, and had been to meditation and emotional release retreats where yoga was sometimes used as a preparation practice. So, I started going to Japanese style yoga classes in town. My body instantly appreciated it and my curious mind was constantly analysing what was happening for me physically, mentally, and emotionally. I began to notice how the body and mind were intrinsically linked, just as the teachers suggested. 

After several years, the couple that ran those classes left town, and a good friend who had studied with them took over. I continued to practice consistently with that friend until he moved away to Newcaslte, set up a studio, then gave me a call and said, ‘I think it’s time you went and did your teacher training.’ And so I did! 

In over 10 years of teaching I feel privileged to share some of the knowledge and philosophies of yoga. I wouldn't be living in this beautiful part of the world teaching in this lovely studio without that push from an old friend and the support of a partner.

Where did you train to teach yoga and what was your experience like?

I found a yoga teacher training that suited my timetable right here in Australia - in Ballina! It was easier to drive the seven hours than fly, and the camping accommodation was right up my alley. That winter just happened to be one of the wettest and coldest the area had ever seen. Still, it was easily one of the best things I’ve done. We had great teachers who lived and breathed yoga, and I spent five weeks with a bunch of lovely humans in a yoga bubble where we cooked, ate, practiced, and learned together - it felt like the outside world didn’t exist. We’ve all heard the cliche, ‘it was life changing’, but it really was. 

The training was the catalyst for massive and immediate change in my life, both on and off the mat. Over the next five years my life was chaotic, painful, exhilarating, tumultuous, and terrifying - but the growth was extraordinary.

If you could go back and give your beginner yogi self one piece of advice, what would it be? 

Life throws all manner of things at us, and sometimes this is unexpected and intense. Shit things happen to good people. I've experienced major setbacks and upheavals that have resulted in terrifying lows and incredible fear. But two of the tools I've relied on to get me through were yoga asana and meditation. As a psychologist friend once succinctly put it, "Meditation saved your life."

How do you integrate the teachings/philosophies of yoga into your everyday life? 

By really understanding that the only constant in life is change, reminding myself that with time and practice the dark night will pass, and in those times consciously practising gratitude to really appreciate life. I believe the purpose of life is simple - we’re here to live, to support each other, and to love. Yoga isn’t a panacea for all that ails us, but I’m really glad it’s part of my toolkit and I believe it helps me not only to survive but to thrive. 

Check the timetable to see when you can find Rick on the mat - teaching Hatha and Yin.

Blossom into Spring: Yoga as a tool for personal transformation

If you’ve spent any amount of time on a yoga mat, you’re probably aware of the transformational possibilities the practice allows. From exploring shapes that enhance your sense of confidence and trust in your body, to the blissful pockets of stillness in between, a yoga class is often brimming with aha moments. Over time, the epiphanies may be replaced with a familiarity that feels like coming home. Even if you’ve spent some time away from the practice, your yoga becomes a place of comfort that invites inner knowing and acceptance.  

As the days grow longer and the first buds of spring push through the warming earth, you may find your soul yearning for transformation and growth. And there’s no better place to explore this than on your trusty yoga mat. 

The season of awakening

Spring, with its vibrant colours and fragrant blossoms, reminds us that life is an ever-evolving journey. It’s a time when the world sheds its old skin and embraces new possibilities. Similarly, yoga invites us to shed our layers of doubt, fear, and limitations, allowing our true selves to bloom. If you’ve ever tried an arm balancing asana, you’ll understand how the practice can allow us to confront our limiting beliefs and eventually move through them. As we step onto the mat, we’re encouraged to let go of judgment, towards ourselves and others – and to tap into our inner child who is trusting, confident, and curious. Just as we see the flowers blooming from the earth, we too can slowly transform – one pose at a time. 

A dance with breath and body

But, dear yogis, it’s not about striking a picture-perfect-pose. Yoga is a dance with breath and body. It’s an invitation to connect with the rhythm of our own hearts. When we synchronise our breath with our movements, we can create a beautiful harmony that’s like poetry in motion. There’s transformation to be found in this dance. In these moments of mindful movement, we release tension, confront our fears, tap into our inner strength, and sink into the deepest knowing of our bodies. Just as spring rain nourishes the earth, yoga nourishes our souls – allowing us to grow and flourish. 

Embracing change

Spring reminds us that change is something to be embraced, not feared. Just as the trees release their old leaves and make way for new growth, we too can let go of things that no longer serve us. It might be easier said than done – but it starts with the body. If you can cultivate the ability to invite softness into your body, even when there is mental struggle and tension, this will naturally find its way into other areas of your life. On the mat, we learn to breathe through discomfort, to be present with whatever arises, and to trust that change is an integral part of life’s unique tapestry. This newfound flexibility and resilience become invaluable tools as we navigate the ever-changing landscape of our lives. 

The power of intention

As we step into spring, it’s a perfect time to set intentions for personal growth. Yoga offers us a space to do that. In each practice, we can infuse our movements with purpose and direction. Setting intentions in our yoga practice is like planting seeds in the fertile soil of our hearts. In times, these intentions will germinate and bloom into our lives. Whether you seek greater self-love, peace, a deeper connection with yourself, or simply the ability to be more present, yoga can be your guiding light on this transformative journey. 

Self-acceptance

Perhaps most importantly, yoga invites us to step onto the mat and let go of the masks we wear. It’s a safe space where we can explore inner landscapes with kindness and compassion. As we breathe through the poses and meditate on our intentions, we can begin to unravel the limiting beliefs that hold us back. Yoga teaches us that our worth is not measured by our physical appearance or accomplishments, but the love and acceptance we offer ourselves. Through mindfulness and self-reflection, we learn to embrace our imperfections, seeing them as unique pieces of a beautiful mosaic that is our true self. In this journey, no matter the season, yoga ultimately guides us to a place of deep self-acceptance. 

5 poses to practise this spring

Boat pose: We’ll resist the urge to make a joke about getting your body beach-ready (ewww) – but spring inspires us to move, gain strength, and transform from the inside out! Boat Pose is a great way to stoke your inner fire. 

Handstand: Whether it’s a modified, L-shape against the wall or a freestanding handstand, spring is the perfect time to build confidence with arm balances. 

Bridge pose: Feel yourself blossom in Bridge Pose. It’s a beautiful heart opener and might even inspire you to eventually move towards the mighty Wheel! 

Butterfly pose: Make sure to include some Yin poses in your practice. Butterfly is a beautiful pose for nourishing the meridians associated with spring (liver and gallbladder). 

Supine twist: Twists are encouraged in Yin yoga at this time of year and are also a great opportunity to detox and energetically clear out the old to make way for the new.

The Magic of Crystal Singing Bowl Healing

Crystal Singing bowls are starting to take the world by storm and have become a sort-after experience to provide deep rest and introspection - have you ever wondered why this is so? The science behind the bowls and the intention of the person playing the bowl are two key ingredients in understanding why singing bowls cast their magical spell on us.

Intention Setting
There is an old saying “where the mind goes the energy flows”. Before playing bowls, it is important to set an intention as it lays the groundwork for where the energy will flow from the person singing the bowls to the bowls themselves and then to the receiver. In a sound bath, a practitioner may set an intention quietly to themselves or guide the participants through a meditation to allow their minds to be consciously in flow with the intention. It all depends on the practitioner's style, intuition and what they wish the outcome of the session to be.

How to set an intention. 

The first step to setting an intention is to "wake up" the bowls by gently striking each bowl from highest to lowest (if playing more than one) or from the root to the crown chakra and speaking the intention for the session out loud or to yourself. After playing has finished close down the bowls by striking from highest to lowest to embed the intention and ensure the participants are settled back into their bodies. 

The Science of Crystal Singing Bowls

You may have heard that all matter in the world vibrates at different rates and, by altering the rate of the vibration we can change the structure of matter. The frequency at which crystal sound waves fluctuate impacts our bodies as a form of matter. Our brain waves change after listening to the bowls which, can induce deep, peaceful meditative states. This occurs initially in our awake (beta) state then moves into alpha (relaxed consciousness) to theta (meditative) and to delta (sleep) where deep healing can occur as the brainwaves attune to the sound. In the epigenetics of our bodies (or what is found “on top” of our DNA) the things we are not born with but carry with us can cause dis-ease or dis-harmony in our bodies. Crystal Singing bowls bring a sense of harmony to our being so we can support what is found “on top” of our DNA in a healthy manner. The bowls can also impact our biochemistry by activating our para-sympathetic nervous system, which helps to reduce anxiety and stress. 

When working with a crystal sound bowl or participating in a sound bath it is important, to note that you have control over your biochemistry. If you want to change your epigenetics, begin with setting an intention and work with the metaphysical thoughts of your mind to bring about positive change. 

Keen to Learn More?

We discuss these areas in detail in our Crystal Singing Bowls for Beginners workshops and Sound Bowl Circles that run periodically throughout the year. Our founder Robyn also holds Sound Baths regularly in her Restore classes. 

If you are keen to delve deeper into this topic, keep an eye on our events page for our workshops and classes page to experience a sound bath or sign up for our newsletter to be the first to know when we announce new dates.

Ayurveda for late winter: Nurturing balance and vitality

As winter’s embrace holds us in its gentle grasp, Ayurveda, the ancient science of life and an important philosophy in yoga, offers us gentle but potent guidance to navigate this season with intention, inspiring rejuvenation for springtime. With its holistic approach to wellbeing, Ayurveda inspires a treasure trove of delicious practices and rituals that can help you cultivate balance, nourish your body, and restore vitality during late winter. Let’s delve into the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda for late winter. 

Nourishing foods

Ayurveda encourages us to choose foods that align with the seasonal qualities in order to maintain balance. According to the Ayurvedic philosophy, the best foods to eat in late winter are those that help balance the dominant dosha (unique energy patterns that influence our physical and mental characteristics) during this season, which is Kapha. To counterbalance the heavy, cold, and damp qualities of Kapha, favour foods that are warm, light, and nourishing. Think root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and beetroot, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, light whole grains like quinoa, and light proteins like chicken, fish, and tofu. 

Dinacharya/ Daily routines and rituals

Dincharya is the Sanskrit term for daily rituals and is the cornerstone of Ayurveda. During late winter, it’s essential to create a routine that creates balance and stability, and supports your overall wellbeing. How would it feel to start rising a little earlier, perhaps with the sun, and practise a few gentle yoga poses? Then follow your practice with some self-care rituals, mindful breathing, and a slow walk through nature. Establishing a regular routine allows you to align your internal rhythms with the natural cycles of the day, promoting grounding, stability, and balance. It’s also a good opportunity to set yourself up for the more vibrant energy of spring. 

Warm, Ayurvedic teas

We’ve said it before but it bears repeating - embrace the mighty herbal tea. The ancient yogis were fans of it for a reason. Ayurveda places great emphasis on keeping your digestive fire, known as Agni, burning strong. During late winter, Agni tends to be weaker, and sipping on warm herbal teas can help stoke the digestive fire and support healthy digestion. Consider Ayurvedic blends like ginger, cinnamon, cardamon, and fennel. These warming spices support digestion, boost metabolism, and provide a comforting respite from the cold. Enjoy them throughout the day to nourish and invigorate your system. 

Abhyanga (self-massage)

In Ayurveda, Abhyanga is a cherished self-care ritual that involves massaging warm oil into your body. During late winter, this practice is especially beneficial as it helps to counteract the dry and cool of this time of year. Cold pressed sesame oil is ideal, but you could also use almond or coconut. Simply heat up the oil (by putting it in a small bowl inside a larger bowl filled with boiling water for a few minutes) then gently massage it into your skin, focusing on any tender or dry areas. Leave the oil on for ten minutes then wash it off in the shower. This nourishing practice moisturises your skin, improves circulation, and calms the nervous system. If you’re short on time you could simply warm the oil in your hands, gently massage into your body, then wash off in the shower. Easy peasy! 

Stimulating movement

Embracing the power of regular physical activity during late winter can also help to counteract the heaviness associated with Kapha and invigorate your body and mind. Dynamic exercises help to increase circulation and build internal heat, providing a natural antidote to the cool and stagnant qualities of this dosha. Incorporate yang yoga, brisk walks, and dance into your routine to awaken your energy, release any accumulated stagnation, and ignite your vitality. These movements also help to support your lymphatic system, enhance digestion, and promote the elimination of toxins so you can spring into spring with ease.

The Art of Deep Rest + Rituals for Profound Relaxation

In a world that seems to never sleep, where busyness reigns supreme, the pursuit of genuine rest has become an urgent necessity. We ambitiously rush through life seeking success then wonder why we’re so very tired. How would it feel to allow yourself the gift of deep rest, especially at a time when nature is inviting you to slow down? During these wondrous wintery days, can you find pockets of stillness without the burden of guilt? It’s easy to plonk your head on the pillow at the end of the day and fall into exhausted stillness, but can you gift yourself moments of restoration before your body demands it?

Take it from the Danes

The Danish call it Hygge (pronounced ‘hoo-gah’), and it’s all about a feeling of coziness, contentment, and wellbeing. It’s about embracing simple pleasures, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, and finding joy in the little things. Hygge encourages mindfulness and being in the present moment, whether it’s enjoying a hot cup of tea by the fireplace, snuggling under a soft blanket with a good book, or sharing laughter and quality time with loved ones. It’s a way of life that promotes comfort, relaxation, and a sense of connection to yourself and others. Hygge invites you to slow down, savour, and cultivate a nurturing environment for wellbeing.

Modern thoughts on deep rest

Restful practices are also gaining scientific recognition for their impact on our overall wellbeing. Studies show that restorative practices and rituals can have a transformative effect on your physical, mental, and emotional health. Restful rituals can improve memory and focus, enhance creativity, and lead to better quality sleep. They can also reduce stress hormones, enhance immune function, and promote cellular repair and regeneration. Rest also offers respite from the relentless pace of modern life, allowing your mind and body to recharge and rejuvenate.

The sleep patterns of our ancestors

By embracing rest, you honour the innate wisdom of your body and align yourself with the rhythm of nature – hence cliché practices like the siesta or afternoon nana nap! It’s not lazy – it’s natural. In fact, these traditions align with our ancestors’ sleep patterns and support natural circadian rhythms. In ancient times, our predecessors would often have two distinct sleep periods: a longer sleep during the night and a shorter one during the day. This segmented sleep pattern allowed them to adapt to the natural daylight cycles and optimise their energy levels. With the advent of artificial lighting and changing work structures, the midday nap gradually faded from modern society. However, research has shown that taking a brief rest during the day can be hugely beneficial. So, if you’ve been wondering why you’re always sleepy in the early afternoon – we’re stoked to inform you that there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that! And in fact, it might be a good idea to just go with it.

5 simple, yogic rituals for profound relaxation and rest

Savasana (Corpse Pose): Don’t skip out of your yoga class before the best bit, yogis. Come for the Savasana – or at least stay for it. By lying flat on your back in Corpse Pose, with your arms and legs comfortable and relaxed, you allow your body to release tension and surrender to stillness. This practice promotes physical and mental relaxation, reduces stress, and rejuvenates your entire system.

Yoga Nidra (Yogic Sleep): This guided meditation technique induces a state of deep relaxation akin to sleep. It involves moving awareness through different parts of the body, encouraging relaxation and calm. Your teacher will often guide you through yoga nidra variations during restorative and yin yoga classes.

Pranayama (Breath Control): Most yoga classes include some deep breathing exercises which activate the parasympathetic nervous system and induce a state of deep relaxation. There are also many simple breathing practices that you can try at home.

Restorative yoga: Restorative yoga involves gentle, supported poses that allow your body to completely relax and release tension. With the support of props like bolsters, blankets, and blocks, restorative poses are held for an extended period, enabling deep rest and rejuvenation.

Mudras: Yoga mudras are hand gestures that are said to facilitate the flow of energy in the body. One mudra, Shunya mudra, formed by joining the thumb and the middle finger, is believed to promote a sense of calm, relieve stress, and encourage deep relaxation. Incorporating mudras into your yoga practice can enhance mindfulness and create a deeper connection between your body and mind.

Embracing coziness: Yogic self-care routines and rituals to transition from Autumn to Winter

As the vibrant colours of Autumn give way to the cooler embrace of winter, it’s the perfect time to nurture yourself and prioritse self-care. It’s not uncommon to experience a hint of the winter blues, so it’s important to pay extra attention to routines and rituals that help promote mental health, alleviate anxiety, and enhance overall wellbeing. In this blog, we’ll explore some yoga-inspired self-care rituals, meditations, and exercises to help you relax and transition gracefully from Autumn to Winter. 

Warm from within

Sip on nourishing herbal teas like ginger, cinnamon, or chamomile to provide both comfort and health benefits. These herbs and spices can help to ease anxiety, promote relaxation, and support mental wellbeing. Take a moment to savour the flavours mindfully and allow the soothing warmth to permeate your body, nurturing yourself from the inside out. 

Candlelight yoga

Set the mood for relaxation by pracitsing yoga in soft candlelight. Dim the lights, light some candles, and allow the gentle glow to create a warm and tranquil ambiance. Move through a restorative or yin yoga sequence, focusing on deep breaths and mindful movements. Removing artificial light helps to support wellbeing, and gentle yoga practices help to ease anxiety and foster a sense of inner peace as you move towards the gloomy time of year. 

Gratitude meditation

Cultivate a positive mindset and enhance wellbeing by taking a few moments each day to practise gratitude meditation. Gratitude is a powerful tool for improving mental health and wellbeing. Simply find a comfortable seat, close your eyes, and bring to mind the things you are grateful for. Allow feelings of appreciation and joy to fill your heart as you reflect on the blessings in your life. If you can’t find time or space for a formal practice, you may like to simply contemplate the things you’re grateful for while you’re in the shower, making dinner, or engaging in any of your daily habits. 

Yin and restorative yoga

Embrace yin and restorative yoga for deep relaxation and stress relief. Set aside time to attend a yin or restorative class, try one online, or simply practise some of your favourite restful poses. Utilise props like bolsters, blankets, and blocks to support your body in relaxing. Focus on longer holds, allowing yourself to sink deeper into each posture and release tension. Yin and restorative yoga promote mental wellbeing by building resilience, reducing anxiety, and enhancing mindfulness.

Winter reflection journaling

Take time to remember where you were and what you were doing at the beginning of the last winter season. Reflect on the past year, and set intentions for the season ahead through journaling. Write down your thoughts, dreams, and aspirations, using this time to reconnect with yourself, clarify your goals, and let go of that which no longer serves you. Journaling is a beautiful practice to support mental health, invite self-reflection, and foster self-awareness. 

Cook nourishing winter recipes

Explore warm and nourishing recipes that embrace the flavours of the season. Think stews, soups, and slow cooked goodness. As you cook, do so mindfully, infusing your meals with love and gratitude for the sustenance they provide. Then enjoy eating mindfully - which will help promote mental health by cultivating a positive relationship with food and increasing your sense of satisfaction. 

Mindful walking in nature

Embrace the changing landscape by taking mindful walks in nature. Allow yourself to connect with the changing environment - notice the crispness in the air, and the quiet beauty of the season. Engaging in this practice can help improve your mood, and cultivate a sense of grounding. When you return back home you’ll feel even cozier as you wrap yourself in some layers and enjoy a warm beverage. 

Take this time to slow down, embrace self-care, and prepare for the peaceful and introspective months ahead.

Reflecting on Autumn: Using Traditional Chinese Philosophies to cultivate mindfulness and gratitude

As we move into the final month of the beautiful season of Autumn, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the many gifts this time has given. From the vibrant foliage to the crisp air, Autumn is clearly a potent season of transformation and growth.

As we touched on in our last blog, in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Autumn is a time to support the lungs and intestines, and to reflect inwardly and let go of what no longer serves us. It’s crucial to heed this call from nature, so that we can move into the cooler months feeling strong and vital – both physically and energetically.

The lungs play an important role in our respiratory system and are responsible for inhaling oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide. They also contribute to maintaining your body’s immune system. During Autumn, the air becomes drier and cooler, which can put a strain on your respiratory system, making it more susceptible to certain illnesses. So, it’s really important that we strengthen our lungs before we move into winter. 

The large intestine is also linked to Autumn and plays a vital role in eliminating waste and toxins from the body. The large intestine is responsible for absorbing water and electrolytes from the undigested food that passes through it. A healthy digestive system is essential for overall health and wellbeing, and this is especially true during Autumn when the body needs more fluids to stay hydrated.

On an energetic level, now is the time to let go! As the trees shed their leaves and prepare for the coming winter, it’s necessary for us, too, to let go of what no longer serves. Perhaps there are certain habits or behaviours that you feel you’d like to release. Right now is a ripe moment to surrender negative emotions or patterns that may be holding you back. If we refuse to let go, we can become stagnant, and stuck in old patterns and beliefs that prevent us from moving forwards. This can manifest as physical symptoms like tension and stress, and emotional symptoms like anxiety and depression. 

By supporting the lungs and digestive system, you can also support your immune system to be better equipped to face the challenges of winter. And, by letting go, you can create the space for new experiences and opportunities in your life. 

Rituals to cultivate gratitude and mindfulness

Try integrating these poses and practices to cultivate gratitude, mindfulness, and a positive mindset as we move towards winter. 

Full Yogic Breath

Yes, we know we’ve said it before, but we’ll say it again – don’t forget to breathe! One of the most effective ways to support your lungs and let go of negativity is with deep breathing exercises. 

How to: Full Yogic Breath/Dirga Pranayama

Dirga Pranayama is a simple breathing technique that can help you feel more calm, centred, and energised. It is also great for increasing lung capacity (hence, supporting the lungs!). 

•  Start by coming to a comfortable seat with your spine straight and your shoulders relaxed

• Place your hands on your belly and close your eyes

• Take a deep inhale through your nose, filling your belly with air, then exhale slowly, letting your belly fall back towards your spine

• Next time you inhale, fill your belly and expand your ribcage. Hold for a moment at the top of the inhale, then exhale slowly through your nose

• With the next inhale, fill your belly, ribcage, and upper chest. Hold for a moment, then exhale slowly 

• Continue like this for 5-10 minutes – starting slowly at first and always listening to your body

• Once complete, gently open your eyes and take a moment to notice how you feel 

Yin Yoga

Yin yoga is a wonderful practice to prioritise rest and relaxation, and release tension in your body. The following poses also have the added benefit of supporting and nourishing the digestive system (remember to hold for at least a few minutes):

Shoelace Pose

Shoelace pose is a deep hip opener that can also help to stimulate the digestive organs. Sit on the floor with your legs extended out in front of you then cross your right leg over your left knee, placing your right foot on the floor outside your left hip. Then, bend your left knee and place your left food on the floor outside your right hip. Your knees should be stacked on top of each other (as much as is possible) and the tops of both feet on the floor (again, as much as possible). Hold for three to five minutes, rest in between, then repeat on the second side. 

Dragon Pose

Dragon Pose deeply stretches the groin and hips and can also help to stimulate digestion. Begin in a low lunge position with your right foot forward. Lower your left knee to the floor and slide your left leg back as far as you can, keeping your hips square to the front of your mat, and one hand on either side of the knee (you can use blocks under your hands for extra support if you like). Keep your right knee above your ankle and rest your right shoulder on your right leg as you drop your head down. Hold for three to five minutes, rest in between, then change sides.  

Caterpillar Pose

This gentle forward fold is great for stimulating the digestive organs and supporting the associated meridians. Begin sitting on the floor with your legs extended out in front of you. Slowly fold forward over your legs, allowing your head to drop down. Relax your arms beside your legs or wrap them underneath the knees. For extra support, you can bring a block under the head or a bolster under your knees. Hold for three to five minutes. 

Gratitude journaling

Take a few moments each day to reflect on the things in your life that you are grateful for. Write them down in a journal or notebook and take the time to really reflect on why you are grateful for them. This simple practice can help you to shift your focus away from negativity and towards optimism. 

As you reflect on the beauty and abundance of Autumn, carry these practices with you into the colder months, and continue to cultivate gratitude and mindfulness throughout the year. 

Let us support you on your journey. We have a delicious Autumn collection of on-demand videos full of yoga, meditation, and breathing goodness for you to enjoy at home. Head here for the details and a taster of the series.

The Golden Season: Traditional Chinese Medicine Rituals for Autumnal Bliss

As the leaves begin to fall and the air becomes crisp, Autumn is a beautiful time to shift your focus inwards. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Autumn is a time for reflection, introspection, and letting go. It’s a time to nourish your body and mind in preparation for the cooler months.

In TCM, Autumn is associated with the metal element organs of the lungs and large intestine. This invites you to let go of what no longer serves you and pay extra attention to strengthening your respiratory and digestive systems.

Try integrating these rituals into your life over Autumn to stay grounded, balanced, and healthy. 

Five Rituals to Practise in Autumn

Breathe: Deep breathing helps to strengthen and nourish your lungs. Consider integrating deep breathing exercises into your daily life. You may like to incorporate a pranayama exercise like viloma into your practice or encourage your breath to move all the way down into your lower belly a few times throughout the day.  

Eat foods that support your intestines and lungs: To support the digestive system, incorporate more pungent and spicy foods into your diet, such as ginger, garlic, and onions. According to TCM, white foods, such as cauliflower, mushrooms, and white beans, are especially beneficial for the lungs - so you may like to include some more of those too (sorry, yogis, ice cream doesn’t count!). 

Embrace yin energy at home: As the days get shorter and the nights grow longer, the energy of Autumn shifts from yang (outward and active) to yin (inward and receptive). Embrace this yin energy by creating a cosy and nurturing home environment. Use warm colours, soft fabrics, and dim lighting to create an ambience of comfort and relaxation. 

Slow down: To further embrace this yin energy, it’s important to prioritise rest and relaxation. Make sure you’re getting plenty of sleep, and embrace practices like restorative yoga, yin yoga, and meditation. 

Let go: Just as the trees release their leaves, you can let go of what no longer serves you. This may be physical clutter in your home or emotional baggage you’ve been carrying. Take time to declutter your space and journal about emotions, behaviours or beliefs you’d like to let go of. 

We hope these rituals inspire you to embrace the beauty and abundance of Autumn. By nourishing your body and mind this season, you’ll be better equipped to face any challenges of winter with ease and grace. 

On the 26th of March 2023, we’ll release a special collection of on-demand videos for you to practice from home this Autumn. When the time is right head to this link to taste-test the series.