Winter Solstice

DHARMA TALK - December 16 / 19, 2017 I heart Yoga / Verona Yoga Studio

So I learned that next week, December 21st is Winter Solstice.  The winter solstice, also known as midwinter, is an astronomical phenomenon marking the day with the shortest period of daylight and the longest night of the year.  Across many cultures and the world, they see this day as a symbol of rebirth since from this day forward we will be observing more sunlight and less darkness. Long ago, people considered this day an important one because they believed if the sun were to keep sinking lower and lower soon all would be dark and life would end. On this date the sun would climb back into the sky and therefore was a time of great celebration. Life will go on!

In yoga, most classes and studios use this time for restorative, gentle, candle or yin practice.  But those of you who have gone to my classes know, that that is not going to happen here or at least today.  But regardless of what you decide to do, I invite you to acknowledge that as a holiday to take time for yourself to reflect on what yoga has brought to your life so far and where you will take your practice in 2018.  

Take this time to plant your seeds, set a goal.  On the 21st maybe challenge yourself and push your limits to set the stage for 2018.  If you set your intentions during the winter solstice, every day after that, with the extending sunlight, seek to move closer to your goal.  Maybe you will even surpass your expectations and reach heights you didn't even think were possible.