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Posted on December 16, 2024 - Aimeé Durán Triujeque - Winter Solstice
As winter approaches in the northern hemisphere, our bodies naturally shift to adapt to the colder, quieter season. While we’re biologically equipped for these changes, giving ourselves some extra care can make this transition smoother. Winter, especially around the solstice on December 21st, is a time of introspection, rest, and renewal. Solstice comes from the Latin word “solstitium” which means "point at which the sun seems to stand still.” This marks the shortest day of the year, a time when we are called to slow down, turn inward, and prepare to return to the light.
The following sequence is designed to warm the body, encourage circulation, and nourish the spirit. So, before you begin, take a few moments to sit in stillness, breathe deeply, and set an intention. Consider what you’ve let go of this year and what you’d like to invite into your life in this period of renewal. Write down your reflections and keep them nearby as you move through these poses.
Begin by resting in Child’s Pose to ground yourself. This posture allows for gentle introspection and releases tension in the back and shoulders. As you settle into the pose, connect with your breath and your intention.
Flow through Cat-Cow to warm up the spine and promote circulation. This rhythmic movement connects breath with motion, helping to release tightness.
Shift into Puppy Pose to open the chest and invite gratitude. Threading the needle through this posture helps stretch the upper back and shoulders, easing any tension and encouraging an open-hearted mindset.
This hip-opening posture targets the psoas and hip flexors, areas that often feel tight during winter’s more sedentary months. Place your hands on the back of your neck to open the chest.
In Seated Forward Bend, stretch your hamstrings, spine, and lower back. If needed, use a strap to maintain a long spine and deepen the stretch gently.
Bridge Pose opens the chest and stimulates circulation. Place a block under the sacrum for a restorative, heart-opening effect that feels particularly warming on a chilly day.
A gentle twist detoxifies and releases tension, especially in the spine and abdomen. This pose helps you unwind from the day’s activity and calm the nervous system.
Hug your knees to your chest to relieve tension in the back. This asana is a great way to feel supported and grounded.
This pose is deeply calming and excellent for promoting circulation. Resting with your legs up invites a sense of peace and relaxation.
In Savasana, allow yourself to absorb the full effects of the practice
When you’re ready, return to a seated position and reread your intention. Take a moment to visualize the transformations you hope to bring into the new year, remembering that every ending marks a new beginning. Or, as my favorite quote from Harry Potter says, “He didn’t know what he was going to — but it had to be better than what he was leaving behind.”
Expert outdoor writer, yoga teacher-in-training and artist born in Mexico. Aimee's personal practice has evolved into an eclectic and healing combination of Restorative, Hatha, Vinyasa, Iyengar and Kundalini yoga.
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