The coal mine canaries are chirping: the time for strength through softness is now. Not only am I picking up on the vibe that we need more gentle, accessible, stress-reducing practices, but I am also being asked for them. Of course, we still love our physically challenging, active practices that reduce stress and build our resilience against it, but this balance may just be, essential. 

I am offering a new class in the weekly schedule, Reset: Stretch, Yin, Restore. A style of practice I have semi-resisted for years even though I knew deep down I was craving it. I always felt there wasn't enough time. I found it scary to be still for that long. My physical body ached in the stillness. I wore my stress like a shield, which created discomfort whenever I tried to surrender.

One of the only risk factors I had for getting cancer was stress. I am not saying it caused my diagnosis, but it is hard to ignore how often I stared at the risk list, and it was the only factor I could check off with assurance. As we all know, stress does not discriminate. Its symptoms almost always eventually manifest in the physical in some way. Yoga and meditation have been proven to be extremely helpful in its reduction.

Reset consists of a gentle stretch followed by holding Yin and restorative postures in supportive, passive positions. If we can tune into quiet long enough, our intuition may guide us, the armour of fear may crumble, and true rest and recovery can take over.

This practice is much more than a nap—it could be one if needed! Its purpose is to help us heal, be more open and present, and possibly be energized to change how we show up for ourselves and each other. 

Slowing down can be incredibly uncomfortable, even painful at first. It takes courage. When you slow down long enough, with intention, resistance to revving up and perpetuating a constant state of doing becomes unignorable. It helps us recognize where we can carve out space to replicate the stillness from the mat in our lives. It allows us to understand the essential quiet required to feel truly anchored and at home in ourselves.

I hope you will join me and try this class.

With love,
Sara

PS A playlist for contemplative, slow stillness & focus.