I probably say this every year – I suspect many people do – but here we are. At the end of another year. How did that happen so quickly? Again? I don’t have an answer for that, but this time of year I do look for things to really enjoy, to try to somehow slow down these remaining days on the calendar and during the holidays. Because it can be so easy to just speed right through these days too.
One thing that can be nice to do? Making sure to make time for that yoga class. And while my focus is on December, this goes for finding moments to escape throughout these winter months. I have to say that one of my favorite, seemingly “small” things, is heading into a warm studio on a cold day. I go to class throughout the year, but there’s a little something special added in these cold, shorter days.
I’m not just talking about the studio temperature, though certainly after a walk from the car to the studio space, the warmth once inside the door feels more than welcome. But there may be hugs and hellos from fellow classmates who have become friends when walking in. And of course there is the warmth from movement once a flow class gets started, waking up muscles that were maybe protesting the cold.
There’s also something special about wrapping back up in a sweater or a blanket before laying back into savasana, the slight chill just starting to creep back in before getting back out into the world. Now, before the holidays, stepping back out into the world may be wrapping up holiday shopping, meal prepping for a dinner with loved ones, or catching up with friends over a hot chocolate. Or with an evening class, there’s driving home with shops and houses lit up with magical lights.
Here in December, taking time to go to class can also be a reminder to take care of yourself during this busy holiday season. And after the New Year and the holiday running around is done, it can be easy to stay in these first few cold months of a new year. Thinking of all the kinds of warmth awaiting at the studio can be a powerful reminder to sign up for that class and go.
I hope you have a lovely holiday this season, and take some time for yourself as the year winds down. Soak it in, enjoy these moments. And see you on the mat!
This is the part of a series of posts for The Mat Yoga Studio, sharing my thoughts and observations as a student only. The views and opinions are my own experience.
