I love aligning with the seasons. Each season has its own unique energy that represents where nature is in its cycle of birth, transformation, decline, and death. As beings who are closely connected to—and directly affected by—the rhythms of nature, we can gather and use the energy of the season by moving through our own seasonal processes.
The onset of autumn for me brings to mind quite specific, and pleasurable, feelings: the sweet tang of the newly-crisp air, the colors of the foliage, the sound of excited fans cheering for their favorite teams, the romantic time of the gloaming in the early evening at the beach when the light has mostly faded and the colors still cast their hue in their reflection on the water, the rustling sound and smell of leaves that have let go from their branches, the taste and sound of biting into an autumn apple, and the soft whispering rustle of the quaking aspens as the slightest breeze stirs them and they tremble almost incessantly, like thousands of fluttering butterfly wings encircling me.
Fall is a time of transformation in both nature and ourselves. Fall invites nature to shed what it no longer needs. Change and transformation fill the air as leaves change colors and fall to the ground below. The red, orange, and yellow foliage reminds us of the beauty and magnificence of change. We, too, transition our yoga practice to align with the changing energies of the season and bring attention to our own transitions. Adapting our yoga practice to the seasons helps us stay grounded, balanced, and connected to the world around us and within us.
Stay Connected to Nature
Fall is a season of abundant beauty in nature and represents so much about how we live life and how it mirrors nature. Consider taking your practice outdoors, surrounded by the changing leaves and crisp autumn air. Practicing in nature can deepen your connection to the seasonal rhythms and enhance your sense of gratitude and awareness.
Focus on Breath
The fall season often brings a sense of introspection and inner reflection. Pay close attention to your breath during your practice, emphasizing slow, deep, and mindful breathing. Pranayama techniques like Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) help balance your energy and calm your mind.
Meditation for Inner Transformation
Incorporating meditation into your fall yoga practice can be a powerful way to align your mind, body, and spirit with the changing season. Just as trees shed their leaves in preparation for winter, meditation allows you to let go of mental clutter and create space for inner transformation.
Mindfulness Meditation: As the world outside undergoes its own transformation, mindfulness meditation can help us stay present in the moment. Find a quiet, cozy spot where you won't be disturbed and sit comfortably. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and turn your attention inward. Observe the thoughts and sensations that arise without judgment. Let them come and go like falling leaves. This practice can enhance your awareness of the beauty of the present moment.
Gratitude Meditation: Autumn is a season of harvest and gratitude. Create a gratitude meditation practice where you reflect on the things you are thankful for in your life. You can do this as part of your daily routine or during your yoga practice. Simply close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and begin to list the things you're grateful for. It could be the changing leaves, the warmth of your home, or the support of loved ones. Practicing gratitude can uplift your spirits and bring a sense of contentment. One thing John and I do each November is write the things we are grateful for on a pumpkin. We start and the top and write one idea each day. At the end of the month, we read it together and remind ourselves of how beautiful life is in each moment we choose to celebrate it.
Chakra Meditation: On Saturday, I led a class where we brought in the wisdom of the lower chakras. Fall is associated with the root and sacral chakras, which are linked to grounding, stability, safety, security, sensuality, and creativity. Consider incorporating chakra meditation into your practice to balance and energize these energy centers. Visualize a deep red color grounding you at your root chakra (base of your spine), and a warm, orange glow at your sacral chakra (just below the navel). This awareness can help you stay connected to the earth's energy while nurturing your creative spirit.
Setting Intentions for the fall season: As you sit in stillness and connect with your inner self, contemplate what you wish to cultivate or release during this time of transformation. Whether it is a renewed commitment to self-care, letting go of old habits, or embarking on new creative projects, your meditation practice can help you clarify your intentions and set the tone for a fulfilling autumn.
Transitioning your yoga practice for the fall season is an opportunity to embrace change, cultivate mindfulness, and nourish your body and soul. By incorporating grounding poses, focusing on breath, and practicing self-care, you can harmonize with the energies of autumn and create a sense of balance and well-being. Embrace the beauty of this season and let your practice reflect the transformative power of the natural world.