December asks for a different kind of practice. The light fades early, we struggle with routines as there is always one more thing to do before you sit down. This is the month when the body wants steady heat and the mind wants quiet. So our theme is Calm and Warm. Simple as that. We build a little warmth, move with care, then finish soft so you feel clear rather than wired. Hopefully you will come off the mat feeling grounded and present, ready for your evening or the rest of your day.
When the weather turns cold it is very normal to feel stiff through the hips and back, a little hunched in the upper body, and a bit low on energy. This month we take care of those exact things. December is full already and a soft landing helps. If your evenings are busy, do the shorter version and focus on your exhale, make it a touch longer than your inhale. Three or four rounds like that and your nervous system gets the message to settle.
I have mapped out a day by day plan for the month as usual so you can simply press play. There is a rhythm to the month. We start with mobility sessions. Mid month we add light strength sessions, but you will still feel the heat. As the holidays approach the plan leans into soft evenings, yin or restorative sessions, and simple stretches. If you miss a day, skip the guilt and join back in on the next one.
If you are new to the membership, welcome. There are more than 160 videos to choose from and the platform makes it easy to find what you need. You can filter by length, focus area and style, and bookmark favourites so they are ready next time. If you like a path, the monthly calendar will guide you. If you prefer a clear start, the 4 Week Beginner Course sits inside the Progress Packs. Many long time members still use it when they want a reset. https://www.aysegulyoga.com/4-week-beginner-yoga-course/
A few tips to keep practice consistent this month. Put your mat where you can see it. Decide your window the day before and protect it like a short appointment. If you only have ten minutes, still roll out the mat and do the short version. Warm socks and a blanket will be comforting. Keep your phone on Do Not Disturb. When you are done, note one tiny thing that felt good. Hips felt less stuck. Breath felt deeper. Shoulders dropped. These notes create awareness and build a habit faster than willpower ever will.
I am always here with you. Tell me what helps or what you would like to see next month. I will include it in the plan.
If you are reading this and you are not yet a member, December is a lovely time to join. You will get the Calm and Warm calendar, access to the full library, and Progress Packs you can dip into when a specific area needs attention. You can practise once a week or daily. Everything counts. You will also have a teacher in your corner to help you choose what to do next. The aim is not to push. It is to feel at home in your body, even in the busiest month of the year. Here is the link if you would like to explore: https://www.aysegulyoga.com/on-demand-yoga/
Roll out your mat. Light, warm breath. Small steps. Let the practice do its quiet work and meet you exactly where you are. The calendar is ready for you. I cannot wait to move through this month together.
Best wishes,
Ayse