Fading daylight can put a great strain on your mood and energy for many reasons. For some people, this can go so far as to affect concentration, motivation and sleep. But for everyone the changing season can encourage you to restore balance, regulate mood and reconnect with your body’s natural rhythms.
Give yourself permission to slow down. Throughout human history the winter season has been seen as a time to slow down and regenerate. This is a great time to listen to what your body needs to replenish your energy levels for when spring finally arrives.
Your body will thank you if you aim to be in bed by 10pm every night. Taking a good quality vitamin D supplement is advised by the NHS during autumn and winter when the amount provided by the sun in this country is insufficient. Getting your winter reading list planned now can also be helpful for keeping your mind gently occupied with minimal screentime to support your circadian rhythm.
Yoga, walking, stretching or other fluid movement can provide tangible help for Seasonal Affective Disorder. A consistent movement practice helps you to deal with feelings that are right here, right now. Learning to take a rest rather than striving to do more allows you to feel a sense of ease during those times when you struggle to get on the mat. Practising with enjoyment rather than needing to do it all changes your situation with miraculous simplicity. As well as nourishing your physical body, maintaining your practice through the shared space of a Yoga studio keeps you connected to your community. Yoga is a practice that is very grounding. Practising in the morning can boost your energy for the day ahead, while practising in the evening can prepare you for a good night’s rest.
Despite the lack of light, it is worth practising your daily sun salutations as the combination of movement, breath and mindfulness not only boosts circulation and energy levels but also helps regulate your nervous system, balancing your stress response.
Yoga as a practice is widely thought of as a self-help tool for low mood and energy imbalances. A group Yoga class has the bonus of offering support through social interaction for those who need it for more than basic self-care. It starts as soon as you arrive on your mat with your breath. The social cohesion aspect is especially beneficial for those who are vulnerable as we approach the holiday season. From Vinyasa and Hot Yoga, to Hatha and Meditation and our special winter candlelit Yin and Restorative Yoga classes, you are guided to be present. You will leave feeling a whole lot better in your body, heart and mind. Try a class when you can. We offer an Introductory 4 Week Pass to welcome you, get you started and support your practice. Find all details and the range of classes our studio has to offer here.