As the seasons change so does our mood and energy levels. Gone are the hot and energising days of summer, where an exciting flow full of exploration and trying new things may have taken your fancy. Now as the weather grows colder, the plants ready themselves to sleep, and the nights drawn in sooner - your yoga practice may change and that's okay.

During this time of year there's a lot of change. The weather, environment, the self - all evolve and become something different during this beautiful time of year. For some, autumn is a joy - relishing in the colder weather and crunchy leaves - maybe finding themselves invigorated and ready to bring that to their practice. For others, this time of year can be difficult. Some struggle with the lack of sunlight and don't take kindly to the cold. Whatever your opinion on autumn, your yoga practice can help you through this transitionary season.
Bring cosiness to your practice.
Now is the time to start bringing in blankets, warm comfortable clothes and pillows into your practice. If only for a sweet Savasana at the end, there's nothing quite as comforting as a cosy yoga practice - especially when it's dark and cold outside. Practicing before bed with candles and fairy lights, autumnal essential oils and a relaxing playlist will ensure a good night's rest as well as provide something to look forward to in the evenings.
Check out my restorative Sunday Reset class guaranteed to bring the cosy vibes.
Layer Up
While this can apply to clothing, layers to help warm during the beginning and end of a flow. I'm referring to the layering of yogic practices to develop your practice while looking after the mind and body. By taking the focus off of only asana, and partaking in pranayama and meditation this can enhance your practice while preserving those oh so precious energy supplies.
Connect with others
The hustle and bustle of summer often co-insides with a bursting social calendar, as the nights draw loser; kids go back to school and the weather grows colder we can find ourselves retreating back into the home more often. While that's great, maybe you find yourself missing the connection with friends and strangers, especially if the summer brings about exploratory activities such as retreats; classes; and new courses. Finding new activities to enjoy can bring that new connection with others and yoga is a perfect way to do that. Whether thats joining a new class or practicing with friends. A great way to marry the introverted nature of autumn with the connection of others is to partake in online classes from home. Connect and practice with others, while maintaining that safe space.
Check out my free online community class starting October 1st.
Take time for yourself
Another fab thing about autumn is how much it can encourage us to take time for ourselves. Summer is over, the demand on our time and energy - although enjoyable at the time - can leave us feeling depleted. Yoga encourages you to listen to your body and take time and space for yourself. Letting you recharge, reenergise and relax. Autumn is a great time to recharge by taking time for yourself, which will leave you feeling energised and ready for winter and the festive season!
Enjoy all the season has to offer
I love autumn and believe it has so much to offer. From cosy nights in to crisp autumnal walks in the countryside. Not to mention the festivities of halloween, bonfire night and eventually the lead up to winter. Yoga in the summer feels so good, practicing outdoors with the sun beaming down on you and birds chirping in the trees above. But yoga in autumn can be so beautiful. Restful, restorative flows designed to give respite and relaxation. Meditative walks with amber leaves crunching underfoot can help you tap into a sense of peace and mindfulness. I could go on, but one of the key aspects of yoga is santosha - contentment, something that can be incredibly helpful in appreciating and enjoying changes in life. If you find yourself dreading autumn, the darker evenings and impending winter employing santosha can be fantastic in reframing your enjoyment of the season.
By Laura Carey
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