At a time of year when we have just about had it with winter cold, dark afternoons and bulky wool jackets, there is a glimmer of spring on the horizon. We are much like the owers under the ground, just waiting for our chance to wear our bright colors and say hello to the sun. It is important to remember, though, that with the new season comes another wave of busy activity. Though we are looking forward to the relief of getting out of our walls, we should take this time to restore and rejuvenate.

Restorative yoga is amazing. It is about connecting your body, breath and mind. While the poses are not as strenuous as other yoga styles, you will hold the pose longer and just breathe, twisting out all of the toxins that your body has built up with the tension of cold and stress, negativity and perhaps some carryover from our holiday eating choices. You can use props such as bolsters, blocks and blankets to allow yourself to fully relax into your poses.

I invite you to try the three restorative poses below this month. Throw some nature sounds on your phone or some soft music. Dim the lights or turn them off and use a candle or a nightlight. Hold each pose five to 10 minutes with your eyes closed, breathing in to a count of 4 or 5, and breathing out for the same count.

LEGS UP THE WALL: Sit facing a wall and scoot up close to it. Lie down and put your legs up the wall, getting as close to the wall as possible, so that you are shaped like the letter “L”. Release all of your muscles. This pose reverses the blood flow in the body, which is excellent for the internal organs.

EXTENDED CHILD’S POSE: Kneel with your feet touching and your knees out wide. Fold over yourself, so that your forehead is on the ground and reach your hands out in front of you and push on them slightly so your hips go back to your heels. This is a great back and hip stretch and also benefits you by encouraging stronger breathing.

BUTTERFLY POSE: Lie on your back, bend your knees and touch the soles of your feet together. If you have trouble falling into this pose, place pillows or blocks under your knees. Your arms can be at your sides, palms up, or you can have them on your belly or hips. This pose is a huge stress reliever, a great groin stretch and is also great for the kidneys.

Doing these poses a few times a week will help you feel more relaxed and balanced. You will find yourself more grounded and able to concentrate throughout your busy day. Once winter has finally said goodbye, you will have renewed energy, a rejuvenated spirit and be ready to take on all the beauty and fun of the warmer weather.

The pure light in me honors and respects the same in you. Namaste.

By Jennifer Russo