December 2024 Laughing Elephant Yoga News

Wrapping up the Year with a Bow! Free Holiday Videos - tap buttons.

December always challenges me...the seasonal cold and early darkness coupled with all the holiday frenzy, challenges while putting on a holiday smile. Couple all of that with a need to regroup, think about teaching yoga and holding space for others...

I know all the wisdom...

• Manage how I respond to the stimulus

• Manage my personal energy and that of the energy vampires

• Say "no" to things that don't feed my soul

• Focus on what brings me joy

The true secret? For me...

• Listen to my body, mind and heart as it craves going inward, being quiet, taking a nap, reading or spending time on a nice day outside in natrure

• Finding grace and not guilt in saying no

• Being at ease with trimming the obligation and staying true to my gut and intuition

• Allowing myself to find balance so I can step into the New Year with grace and ease

If this resonates with you, here are some ideas...

• Digital detox - trim the apps or time spent online

• Slow down - even if you must plan it in your schedule. Be intentional with your time, commitments and what might nourish you as a reflection of slowing down.

• Letting go - are there traditions or holiday to do's that no longer serve you? Can you ease off the perfect party or holiday card?

• Sit with your breath - as I do in class to arrive and be present with myself.

  • Sit or lay down. Be comfortable. If you'd like, place hands on belly to feel the breath as it moves in and out of your body. Take three deep breaths and then settle into your natural breath. Notice your breath. Close your eyes. Feel your breath from the inside out.

  • Another breath technique - take two quick inhales and a long deep exhale. Do this 8-10 times to settle anxiety, fast paced thinking etc.

• Schedule time just for YOU and whatever makes you feel good and cared for.

• Allow yourself space to stretch, walk, connect with nature, a good book or music.

• Fill in the blank...This will make me happy or feel ease...and then commit to making that happen.

With love and kindness

Bitsy Merriman

[email protected]

Winter & Yule Essential Oil Recipe - drops indicated by #

4 pine, 3 frankincense, 2 sweet orange, 2 cypress, 2 juniper, 1 clove

Winter Solstice - Saturday Dec 21, 2024

2 douglas fir & western red cedar, scotch pine, grand fir or fir needle

1 cinnamon bark, nutmeg, ginger, vanilla

Third Chakra - Solar Plexus (light in the light)

2 frankincense (love, protection, wisdom, & spiritual openness and any 2 drops of the oils listed below

Vetier (centering), cedar wood (community), lavender (communication), helichrysum (pain), myrrh (mother earth), white fir (genertional healing)