Self-care and compassion are the foundation of yoga. The better we treat ourselves, the healthier we become physically. Our mindset becomes more clear, and our intention in life can be more focused.
This ripple effect is that those close to us will see our vibrance and start to adopt similar rituals and routines to improve their clarity, health, and wellness. So, it makes sense that developing wellness routines and habits for yourself and your family is beneficial.
This can be a very difficult practice to do if you have had a bad day. Yoga addresses this in the course by recognizing your abundance. This is the perfect place to start your blissful recovery routines.
Yogiraj said: “What are we missing because we are seeing the same thing?” If we focus on our “hard days” without letting them go, we miss out on all that is around us for which we can be grateful. We will also miss our abundance.
These routines will add some bliss and abundance to the end of your day recovery process.
Put Your Day Down
Outline: List everything on your mind and put it in a place you can’t see. Please put it in a place you’ll be sure to visit the next morning.
Walk outside. If you don’t own a dog, go out and “walk the dogs.” Being outdoors is a powerful stress-relieving tool. This walking meditation helps to clear the mind.
Suppose it’s raining, even better! You can let the rain wash away your day or wear rain boots to splash about. Do you live on a busy road? It’s great; being aware of the world outside can help us gain perspective and let go of our problems.
Shower: Cleanse yourself off the day. Create a self-care ritual in the shower. Use your favorite sponge, shower gel, facial cleanser, or body lotion. It can be a relaxing detoxification.
Nourish
Eat balanced meals: Be seated at a dining table, even if it’s just you. It’s a good idea to eat at a dining table. Decorate your coffee or desk as if you have a kitchen-style table. Napkins, vases and placemats, water glasses, etc.
Relax: Grab some herbal tea and a book. Try this if you’re a regular TV viewer. This is more stimulating than watching TV, so your mind will be liberated from a bad day.
Set a goal: Light the candle and make a note of your intention for tomorrow. Write down how you would like the day to look and feel. Write about how you want to move forward in your life tomorrow. Avoid writing about the work. Write down three positive things about your day and three things for which you are grateful.
The Yoga Practice for Release and Bliss
Yin Yoga This is a wonderful way to end the day. Add 4-5 floor poses before you go to bed if you can’t make it to an evening class or if you usually practice in the morning. You can reap the full benefits of yin practice by using long holds (3 minutes on average).
Use as many books and pillows (or blocks) as possible to practice this 20-minute exercise.
Lizard Pose is a great way to release frustrations and emotions that are lingering deep in your hip pockets.
Stretch your lower back with Pigeon Pose.
Seated fold to stretch your hamstrings and dig deeper into your lower back.
The reclined twist is important because, in Chinese Medicine or Ayurvedic Medicine, twisting has a detoxifying effect.
Legs up the Wall is a great way to calm your parasympathetic system and eliminate that fight or flight stress response.
You can use one or more of these routines to reclaim your evening after a long, tiring day. They will also help you to feel less tired and more satisfied. This is a simple way to prepare your body and brain for a good night’s sleep and a joyful life.