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As the days get shorter and the nights get longer, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by the challenges of winter. But for meditation and yoga teacher Aysha Bell, this time of year is an opportunity to slow down and focus on self-care.
In this article, Aysha shares her four key rituals for grounding into the winter months. These practices can help you to reduce stress, boost your mood, and improve your overall well-being.
1. Breathwork
Breathwork is a simple but powerful practice that can help you to change your state of being. By consciously controlling your breath, you can activate your parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for relaxation and rest.
Aysha recommends practicing breathwork for 10 minutes first thing in the morning. To do this, lie down in bed and take a long, slow inhale, filling your lungs with air. Then, exhale slowly and completely.
Repeat this process for 30 breaths, or for three rounds. You should feel more relaxed and energized after completing this practice.
2. Gratitude
Practicing gratitude can help you to focus on the positive aspects of your life, even during difficult times. When you take the time to appreciate the good things in your life, you can reduce stress, improve your mood, and boost your overall happiness.
Aysha recommends jotting down three things you are grateful for each morning or evening. You can also try downloading a gratitude meditation app or simply taking a few moments to reflect on the things you are grateful for throughout the day.
3. Sound Healing
Sound healing is a type of alternative therapy that uses sound waves to promote relaxation and healing. Listening to soothing sounds can help to reduce stress, improve sleep, and boost your mood.
Aysha recommends listening to gongs and singing bowls to promote relaxation.
4. Cacao
Cacao is a type of chocolate that is rich in antioxidants and other nutrients. Drinking cacao can help to improve your mood, reduce stress, and boost your energy levels.
Aysha recommends making a cup of warm cacao in the morning to help you to start your day on a positive note.
These are just a few of the many self-care practices that can help you to ground into the winter months. By taking the time to care for yourself, you can reduce stress, boost your mood, and improve your overall well-being.
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