Celebrate the Spring Equinox with Yoga

The spring equinox is an astronomical event that marks the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. The word "equinox" comes from the Latin words meaning "equal" and "night". As the sun crosses the equator, it results in equal amounts of daylight and darkness. So in our practice, we honor the balance of light and the dark, along with a theme of blossoming anew.

Below are some rituals and practices to honor the coming of spring.

Spend Time in Nature

If you’d like to take your yoga practice to the next level, consider spending time in nature and tuning into the five elements. Yoga Anytime teacher, Melina Meza, offers elemental Ayurveda practices and rituals to help us go deeper with self-care, people care, and earth care. She suggests practicing savasana outside on the earth, sitting on the ground, walking mindfully in nature, or practicing forest bathing to connect with the earth element.

Yoga Postures for Spring

Some yoga postures that are particularly beneficial during the spring season include twists, backbends, and inversions. These postures can help improve digestion, stimulate the lymphatic system, and increase circulation, all of which can help support the body's natural detoxification processes. Consider trying this detoxifying flow practice or this spring-inspired practice to help promote a sense of vibrancy in the body, mind, and spirit.

Breathing Practices

Breathing practices can also be useful to usher in the new season. Deep breathing can help calm the mind and reduce stress, while nadi shodhana, or alternate nostril breathing, can help balance the body's energy channels.

Listen to Music

A number of studies have shown that listening to music can reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, and improve the quality of sleep and your mood. Yoga Anytime teacher, Suzy Nece, put together a great Spring Equinox playlist on Spotify. Perhaps give it a listen while you're doing some spring cleaning or just dancing around your kitchen.

Cultivating a sense of mindfulness and gratitude—both on and off our mat—can help us stay centered and focused as we navigate the transition to this new, vibrant season.