Binging on hot chocolate and mouth-watering, freshly baked cookies and Christmas snacks got you feeling all the celebratory feels this season? We’re with you - we can’t resist either! It’s easy to get absorbed in the long list of festive to-dos and tell ourselves ‘it’s okay if we miss our yoga practices!’. And, yes, it is okay, you can start the new year strong in January, but what if we told you, you don’t need more than 15 minutes on the mat during the Holiday season to give your body a quick stretch? Yes, that’s right. 

How can yoga help you stay balanced during the Holidays?

We know, it may not seem possible, but try us! We’ve also put together a few yogic practices you can incorporate while you go about ticking things off your to-do list. Start with a few practices and slowly add in the rest as and when you can. With these simple tips you will be able to sustain your practice, enjoy the Holidays and start your new year off on the right foot.

5 Simple Yoga Practices for the Holidays 

Start Slow

Start your day slowly and consciously. The festive season can be overwhelming with emotions running high and low. When you wake up, spend a few minutes just absorbing the freshness of the morning, take a few deep breaths, have a warm beverage and then plan your day ahead. Slow living is not solely reserved for Sundays. You can add a few minutes of this every morning. You’ll soon begin to notice a change in how your day goes by.

Mat Time

Carve out at least 15-minutes a day to give your body a quick stretch. This way, not only can you continue binging on all the delicious Christmas food but also maintain health during the season. Practices like Surya Namaskar also induce heat in the body, keeping you warm despite the sub-zero temperatures.
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Here is a full-body workout video for the Holidays:

Breathe Deep

With temperatures dropping even further outdoors, practice heating pranayama exercises to stay warm. These practices don’t just induce heat, but also improve circulation, keep your immunity up and help your body and mind stay balanced. 

Meditate

Take the time to meditate, either in the morning as part of your slow start to the day or in the evening. Meditation during this season will help you stay calm, balanced and focused, rather than getting overwhelmed with the hectic schedules. The practice will also induce mindfulness, deep breathing and a sense of awareness. Shvasa has different meditations for you to try or you also join a live session with our Head of Yoga every week. 

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Stay Balanced

Try to remain conscious and practice mindfulness throughout your day. The hustle and bustle can often get to you. Before reacting, worrying or letting your mind get thrown off balance, take deep breaths to stay focused. All yogic practices help you build balance gradually and help you stay in touch with your true self. 

With a little conscious effort and dedication you can enjoy your Holidays guilt-free! Try it, and tell us how you feel! 

Happy Holidays!