5 Ways to Stay Warm this Winter

It’s February. It’s dark. It’s cold (at least here in Ottawa!). And we’re still in a pandemic.

Where I live, it’s been quite chilly and we keep the heat in our home low to save electricity. When I’m cold, I find I crave more sugar and less movement - not the best things! In yoga, we call this heavier, sluggish energy tamas. We do need tamasic energy to relax and fall asleep. But too much tamas results in lethargy, depression and brain fog. In winter, especially, we want to cultivate more rajas, or the energy of movement and action to stay balanced and well.

Here are some of my ideas and tips to stay warm from a yoga and Ayurveda perspective.

1. Practice flow/vinyasa/power yoga

Getting your heart pumping and blood and lymph moving is so great. Winter can be a great time to practice more heating styles of yoga. If you don’t have time for a full practice? Try 2 or 3 Sun Salutations.

2. Drink ginger tea

Chop a few chunks of ginger root and simmer with water in a pot for 15 minutes. Let it cool a little and add honey to taste. Drink this a few times per day and notice how you feel!

3. Take time to process your emotions

Grief, sadness, depression and fear are cold emotions. Take time to acknowledge, journal or talk with a professional to help move these feelings. You may not even realize this underlying stagnation.

4. Draw a warm salt bath

Winter evenings can be perfect for a warm sea or Epsom salt bath. Add in a splash of sesame oil a few drops of essential oil (lavender or cedarwood) for skin health and relaxation.

5. Candle gazing meditation / Walking meditation

Candle gazing meditation: Find a warm spot in your home and set up your candle around eye level (I use a chair). Make yourself cozy by sitting on a meditation cushion and wrap yourself with a blanket or scarf. Set a timer and gaze at the candle. Envision the flame burning up what no longer serves you and creating light and space.

Walking meditation: Dress for the weather and set a timer. Become aware of your breath and set out in your yard or neighbourhood. Stay focused on the rhythmic movements of your gait and breath. Let this be about experiencing as opposed to an exercise goal. Notice when thoughts creep in and come back to being present, in your body, being outdoors. *You could also do this indoors!

Bonus 6. Curl up with warm socks, a cozy blanket and a partner, child, pet, hot water bottle and read a book!