Yoga for the Weary

Photos via Pinterest.

Tonight I came to my mat feeling weary. Worn down. Heavy. 

Winter has a way of telling my body it's older and more tired than it really is, I think.

I am grateful that I can bring my worn-down self to yoga and come out of class feeling lighter, clearer, and more alive.

Even when my mind feels feeble during sun salutations, and my arms shake in chaturanga, I find peace by allowing myself this time. During my practice, it is OK if I am exhausted and feeling low.

Even if I am broken, I am somehow whole.

Weeks like these I've been finding calm and strength in poses like malasana (squatting pose) and balasana (child's pose). 

It's important to have realized I'm going through a time where I need and crave feeling grounded in my yoga practice and in my life. While I also love balancing and strength postures, I have found that those poses which root my energy downward are best right now (forward folds, warrior poses, and hip openers). 

By connecting with the ground, I tune in to my emotions, stabilizing them, calming myself, finding the peace I so desperately need.