This is the time when the Earth gets colder (in this part of the world) and the water and earth element which live in us are at their strongest. The days are shorter, the temperature is colder and we, because we're part of nature, feel it in our bodies. 

However, if we are not mindful we can let the kapha dosha go out of balance. When Kapha is out of balance generally speaking we start to feel tired, lethargic, dull, congested. I've been fighting a cold for the last few days! We can also feel sad and even a bit depressed. I know I can go to those places easily when I don't take as good care of myself.

Inspired by this, I've been teaching lately on the theme of "Rooting and Rising." Of feeling the earth underneath us, grounding down with it while also staying uplifted. We've been doing partner work in class that involves rooting each other. For instance in Tadasana, one person roots another from pelvis down while the other rises up with their torso and head. This, by the way, is great preparation for drop-backs which we've also been practicing. I have also found a sweet haven in the practice of relaxation through restorative yoga. It's a great way to literally practice releasing down towards the earth. 

I find that this time of the year is one which invites us to get quiet, to meditate more, to look over the year 2009, with a compassionate eye. To remind ourselves of our connection with the world.  

May we feel this connection not just when we are in class on our mats but when we are outside as well. 

May we eat grounding and nourishing meals (have been enjoying lots of soups lately). 

Watch less TV (so hard for me!) and try to do -gulp- less.

The winter solstice is coming up. The darkest day of the year. 

May we embrace our darkness and find grace in it; find the light in the dark. 

May we honor those parts of us that are so challenging for ourselves. 

May we honor who far we've come in our practice and on this year.

Blessings!

Oh, one more thing. This weekend I will be doing Noah and Darren's workshop at City Yoga. Darren is literally the poster boy of Anusara. He is the wonderful teacher who modeled all the asanas of the syllabus. For those who have been reading my blog posting, I've been teaching in every class, one pose at a time, every day, the poses of the poster. My plan is to go through the entire poster. It takes a while! We are on Level 1 on the seated poses.

Anusara Poster Project Pose: siddhasana

Stay warm!