New Beginnings - Spring Returns

New Beginnings - Spring Returns

Spring is returning! The length of the day has been increasing. At first, the shift is imperceptible but it has been happening. We are approaching the Spring Equinox. Light and darkness will be in balance for a moment. Then the light will continue to grow. This is a period of new beginnings! 

To me, Spring conjures up iconic imagery of renewal. Vegetation takes root, flowers bursting forth, and trees filling with leaves. The first pops of color stand out against the dull sky and stark landscape of the receding winter. This is a period of rebirth.

Animals awaken from hibernation and carry newborn babies with them. Birds migrate home, filling the air with their beautiful sights and sounds. The weather warms up. The ground becomes wetter, to nourish life that seems boundless and bursting forth. The exterior world becomes more accessible, with less effort. Little by little, we need fewer layers of clothing to be outside. We can enjoy the warmth of the sun and the crispness of the fresh air. 

Spring is also an energetic time for cleaning. Spring cleaning is real. Wardrobes and bedding change. Many of us deep clean our homes. Cleansing the cracks, crevices, and corners of our living spaces. We view outside through crystal clear windows. We turn over the soil to plant gardens and bring forth fresh fruit and vegetables. 

We too can cleanse our inner world and prepare our "inner soil" for the change of the season. This is one of the many gifts of Yoga.

Yoga is like opening the windows and taking a breath of fresh air. Yoga releases tension. It creates space. It cleans out the cracks, crevices, and corners of our bodies. Yoga creates an environment in which we calm down and allow creativity to flow forth. 

As the season begins to change, I encourage you to use your practice to drop inward. Use your practice to cultivate stillness. Use your practice to create space within.  Use your practice to return home to your full body.