Stay Calm and Yoga your way through the Festive Season

As we embrace the festive season, lets remember the power of kindness, patience and forgiveness. May we extend compassion to ourselves and others, honoring our true selves and embracing our individual strengths.

Lets release expectations, allowing space for love, joy, and the beauty of each present moment. Breathe in positivity, exhale negativity, and open our hearts to new experiences. Wishing you all a season filled with love, light, peace and happiness <3

Here are some tips on how to apply the principles of yoga this season; Releasing expectations, practicing forgiveness, focusing on wellness and embracing the present moment.

Yamas (Ethical Guidelines):

Ahimsa (Non-violence):

• Embrace kindness and compassion, especially towards yourself. Release any self-criticism or pressure to meet unrealistic expectations during festivities.

• Practice kindness and compassion in all your interactions, especially during gatherings and celebrations.

• Practice kindness towards yourself by being present. Release self-judgment and embrace each moment with self-compassion and understanding.

• Practice self-care and prioritize your well-being. Release the pressure to overindulge or neglect your health during celebrations.

Satya (Truthfulness):

• Be truthful about your limitations and communicate them gently. Release the need to conform to others' expectations if it compromises your well-being.

• Be truthful and authentic in your experiences. Embrace the present by acknowledging your feelings and thoughts without judgment.

• Communicate authentically during festivities. Be honest in your expressions and interactions. Avoid gossip or spreading rumors, maintaining the integrity of your conversations.

• Be honest with yourself about your wellness needs. Release the guilt associated with setting boundaries that support your physical and mental health.

Asteya (Non-stealing):

• Embrace the joy of the present without letting worries about the past or future steal your happiness. Release the tendency to dwell on what has passed or what might come.

• Respect others' belongings and boundaries. Avoid taking advantage of others’ generosity or possessions.

• Cultivate an attitude of gratitude, acknowledging the abundance in your life without coveting what others have.

• Allocate time for rest and rejuvenation without feeling guilty or selfish. Release the belief that constant busyness equals productivity.

Brahmacharya (Moderation):

• Practice moderation in commitments, social engagements, and consumption, releasing the pressure to overextend yourself during this busy time.

• Be fully present in each activity and celebration without overcommitting. Release distractions and focus on immersing yourself in the joy of the current moment.

• Celebrate mindfully, practicing moderation in food, drinks, and expenses

• Embrace balanced eating, mindful movement, and adequate rest. Release the urge to overconsume or overexert yourself.

Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness):

• Release attachment to specific outcomes or perfect scenarios. Embrace the flow of the festivities without clinging to rigid plans.

• Share your resources generously, whether it's time, food, gifts, or support.

• Embrace the spirit of giving without expecting anything in return.

• Release attachment to stressful or toxic situations. Prioritize your wellness by distancing yourself from sources of unnecessary stress.

Niyamas (Personal Observances):

Saucha (Purity):

• Maintain cleanliness in your surroundings and thoughts. Purge negativity and clutter from your life, both physically and mentally.

• Purify your heart and mind by practicing forgiveness. Release grudges or resentments, allowing yourself to move forward unburdened.

• Purify your thoughts by staying present. Release mental clutter and distractions, focusing on the purity of the present experience.

Santosha (Contentment):

• Cultivate gratitude for the present moment and the company of loved ones.

• Focus on experiences and connections rather than material possessions.

• Find contentment in the present moment's simple joys. Release the pursuit of perfection and allow yourself to be content with what is happening now.

Tapas (Self-discipline):

• Stay committed to your personal values and principles, even amidst the festivities.

• Dedicate time for spiritual practices or self-reflection to stay centered and grounded.

• Cultivate the discipline of being present. Release the impulse to multitask or rush through activities, dedicating your attention fully to each moment.

Svadhyaya (Self-study):

• Reflect on the deeper meanings of the celebrations, connecting with their spiritual significance.

• Engage in learning opportunities that expand your understanding of different cultures and traditions.

• Reflect on the transformative power of forgiveness. Release judgment and self-righteousness by understanding others' perspectives.

• Study your own reactions and responses to the present moment. Release automatic judgments or assumptions, allowing yourself to observe without bias.

Ishvara Pranidhana (Surrender):

• Embrace the festive season with an open heart, Surrender to the flow of the present moment. Release resistance and embrace the unfolding of events with openness and acceptance.

• Practice mindfulness or meditation to connect with a higher purpose beyond the material aspects of the festivities.

• Surrender to the healing process of forgiveness, releasing the burden of carrying old wounds. Trust in the power of forgiveness to bring inner peace.

By centering your festive season around the principles of yoga - releasing expectations, practicing forgiveness, and focusing on wellness, you can create a nurturing and harmonious environment for you and your family that aligns with your authentic self.

Wishing you all a safe and happy festive season filled with love, light, peace and happiness <3

With Gratitude,

Emily xx

Generation Yogi