.jpg)
It is getting colder and colder for those of us living in the northern hemisphere. I don’t know about you, but for me, whenever it is cold, I tend to move less and less, curling within myself, motionless.
Of course, this makes no sense, since movement creates heat, and it is a wonderful way to get warm and gain some exercise done along the way.
What the body is actually doing, is reducing the areas of the body that are exposed to the cold air, trying to conserve the natural body heat within the body by losing less heat to the outer surface.
So how to overcome the first bodily resistance to uncoil and exercise when it is cold?
It is probably not the best time to take out your new hip yoga outfit or stylish sportswear, but slip into something fuzzy and warm. If you are practicing yoga, take your time before taking off your socks and even start with your slippers on!
Start with a gentle exercise on the mat to warm up. Soon enough heat will be generated and you’ll be able to take off some of your garments and continue to a more vigorous workout.
Actually, in yogi philosophy, the willingness and energy to practice is called T A P A S. Tapas is an inner fire. One of the things that this fire does is give us the energy and willingness to practice. The more inner fire we have, the more we’ll be able to practice, even in those difficult weary days.
This also goes the opposite direction. If we don’t feel like practicing, let’s say because it’s too cold, by initiating movement and practice the Tapas awakens, our fire within becomes stronger.
So dress warm and let this inner fire of energy to move you towards practicing and warm you up! Your cold, stiff muscles will thank you for that! Ohhh…and your spirit will be grateful too :)
