Togetherness & Separation
The holidays are about togetherness. Slowing down, spending time with our loved ones, spending time with ourselves. Enjoying gatherings for a meal around a table, and for some, a spirit in the coziness of our homes. It’s a wonderful time of year when we make space to intentionally connect with people we love and value. We seek warmth, safety, and comfort. Regular routines are lost, and we accept that slow mornings are ok, late nights are welcomed, and indulging is good in the short term. I would love to sit in the arrivals in an airport during this time of year and watch all of the reunions occur, the big smiles, hugs, and instant conversation!
As the holiday time ends, we start to feel that separation. People who have visited are leaving. Unlike arrivals, departures leave people with sadness and the reality of having to return to the daily routines of life. But even for those who live nearby, we know as daily life settles back in it will be harder to schedule a time to catch up over a meal. We begin that separation from each other and the discomforts of life return; morning traffic, work preparation, long days, early morning weekends perhaps. In Calgary, our winter cold makes for uncomfortable commutes can keep us from making plans beyond what is required. We may feel isolated and lonely.
During the next few months, if you are feeling disconnected, find ways to connect that fit within your schedule. Whether it’s a short video chat, a group texted chat with friends, or you commit to a regular yoga class. It’s sure to make the cold winter months better, more memorable, and offer you some comfort.
Journaling Ideas: List your top 5 favorite moments of your holiday season. Then, ask yourself how you can re-create this, even in a smaller way, throughout the next few months. Make a plan, connect with the people you wish to include. Set dates in the calendar!
After a 10-15min warm-up below are suggested poses for your week to help facilitate opening in body, mind, and spirit.
Yoga Poses to Add to Your Practice This Week
Supine Eagle Pose (Supta Garudasana): Use this pose in the beginning and end of your practice to offer that sense of comfort and coming together.
Child’s Pose (Balasana): Suggesting the traditional version with the arms tucked along side the feet and with the head rested on the mat or a block. Use this posture for a little inward reflection, rest, and comfort.
Sphinx Pose (Bhujangasana): An active posture that engages the back of the body, allows focus through the gaze, while bringing the lower body together.
Seated Wide-Legged Forward Fold (Upavista Konasana): Create separation between the legs, and find either full fold, with a rounded back, or keep that back upright and reach the crown tall.
Triangle (Utthita Trikonasana): One of the best poses for creating separation. Try and take a long stance, and try not to fold over your front leg but hinge into the front hip and extend through the crown.
Close out your practice using your warm-up as your cool-down and offer yourself a 10mins Savasana for rest.
Remember to always practice within your own limits and take care of physical and emotional well-being.
Wishing to learn more about the practice of yoga? The AYC’s January 200HR YTT is SOLD OUT! However, Reserve Your Spot for the September session today! Looking for more details? Email stephaniepower.ayc@gmail.com.
If you want to share your experience with us, follow us on Instagram: @albertayogacollege
With gratitude,
-Stephanie