17 Mar 8 Pillars of Yoga and How they Can Inspire You in Spring
Here in the mountains of Summit County, the transition from Winter to Spring feels especially meaningful. Our seasons tend to shift a bit later than most places, so we get to savor the Spring snow, enjoy the spring ski vibes, and fully embrace the season as it unfolds. When the temperatures finally warm up, we dive into Spring with open arms, welcoming the change and all the beauty it brings.
Spring is a time of renewal, growth, and fresh beginnings—a season where nature awakens from its winter rest, slowly blossoming into its full potential. Just as the world around us transitions, we too have the opportunity to shed what no longer serves us and embrace new energy.
Yoga is not just about the physical practice (Asana); it is a philosophy that provides guidance for living a balanced and fulfilling life. The Eight Pillars of Yoga, outlined in the ancient Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, serve as a roadmap for inner and outer transformation. This spring, let’s explore how these principles can inspire us to align with the rhythms of the season and step into a time of renewal with intention and presence.
1. Yamas – How We Treat the World Around Us
The Yamas teach us about compassion, truthfulness, and non-harming behavior—qualities that are essential as we step into spring.
Ahimsa (Non-harming): Nature in spring is delicate—buds are forming, animals are emerging from hibernation, and the earth is waking up. Just as we tread gently on new grass and admire fragile blooms, we can extend that same gentleness to ourselves and others, nourishing growth rather than forcing it.
Satya (Truthfulness): Growth looks different for everyone. Spring reminds us that we all bloom in our own time. Just as one tree may flower before another, you are on your own journey. Embrace your truth and trust your process.
How to Apply It: Nourish yourself with healthy foods, uplifting thoughts, and kind actions. Speak your truth but do so with love and consideration.
2. Niyamas – Self-Discipline & Personal Growth
The Niyamas are about how we care for ourselves, encouraging self-discipline, cleanliness, and contentment.
Saucha (Cleanliness): Spring cleaning isn’t just for your home—it’s for your mind, body, and spirit. Let go of clutter, whether it’s physical, mental, or emotional. A clear space and mind create room for growth.
How to Apply It: Set aside time to declutter your space, refresh your mindset, and embrace clean habits. Just as nature sheds the remnants of winter, release what no longer serves you.
3. Asana – Physical Practice
Spring is a wonderful time to recommit to movement. Longer days and warmer weather invite us to step onto the mat with renewed energy and enthusiasm.
How to Apply It: Whether you join us at Summit Sol Wellness or roll out your mat at home, let your practice mirror the awakening energy of spring. Move with intention, flow with breath, and celebrate the strength and vitality of your body.
4. Pranayama – The Breath of Renewal
Spring air is crisp, fresh, and full of life. It’s time to breathe deeply, clear out stale winter air, and energize the body and mind. Breathwork (Pranayama) helps calm the nervous system, build energy, and restore balance.
Spring Breathwork Practice – Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing):
- Sit comfortably and close your eyes.
- Use your right thumb to close your right nostril and inhale through the left.
- Close the left nostril with your ring finger, open the right nostril, and exhale through the right.
- Inhale through the right, then switch, exhaling through the left.
- Repeat for 5-10 cycles.
Benefits: Clears mental fog, balances energy, relieves stress, and brings a sense of renewal—perfect for the fresh start that spring offers.
5. Pratyahara – Turning Inward
Just as a bud in spring cannot control the weather, we too cannot control the chaos of the world around us. Pratyahara, the practice of withdrawing from external distractions, teaches us to create a calm and centered mind.
How to Apply It: Spend time in nature without distractions—turn off notifications, take a walk without music, and simply be present with the sounds, sights, and smells of spring.
6. Dharana – Finding Single-Pointed Focus
In today’s world, we are constantly multitasking. Dharana invites us to focus on one thing at a time, giving it our full attention.
How to Apply It: Pick a spring intention—maybe it’s starting a garden, deepening your yoga practice, or spending more time outside. Pour your energy into it without distraction, just as the sun steadily nurtures a sprout until it blooms.
7. Dhyana – Meditation & Presence
Spring in the mountains is often called “mud season”—the in-between time when ski resorts close and summer trails aren’t yet dry. It’s tempting to wish away the present and rush into summer, but Dhyana (meditation) teaches us to embrace what is.
How to Apply It: Try this Spring Meditation:
- Find a quiet place outside.
- Close your eyes and listen to the sounds of melting snow, birds returning, and the wind through the trees.
- Breathe deeply, absorbing the fresh energy of the season.
- Remind yourself: Tending to your bud allows you to fully bloom come summer.
8. Samadhi – Being, Not Just Doing
Spring reminds us that life doesn’t have to be all about doing—it’s also about being. Trees don’t rush to bloom; they simply exist in harmony with the season. Samadhi is the final limb of yoga, where we shift from constantly striving to simply being.
How to Apply It: Be love. Be gentle. Be well. Let go of the pressure to always be productive. This spring, give yourself permission to simply exist, enjoy, and embrace the season’s beauty.
Embrace the Energy of Spring
Winter can be harsh, but spring is here to remind us that growth, warmth, and joy are ahead. By incorporating the 8 Pillars of Yoga into your life, you can bloom in alignment with nature—gently, mindfully, and at your own pace.
Be well this Spring with Summit Sol!