We know, we know - the whole self-care thing can feel a bit overdone these days, right? But here’s a little yoga secret: self-care doesn’t have to mean spa days or luxury holidays (though we wouldn’t say no). All that zen tends to disappear the moment the party’s over anyway. Real self-care is much simpler - it’s made up of soft, easy, everyday acts that gently remind your nervous system you’re safe, supported, and truly present.
In yoga philosophy, calm doesn’t come from control, but from surrender - accepting things as they are and trusting in the greater flow (known as Isvara pranidhana). We also find calm through the practices of santosha (contentment) and aparigraha (non-grasping): letting go of what we think we “should” be doing and finding softness and personal growth in simple, soothing rituals that fit our busy, modern lives.
Here are some ways to easily weave true self-care into your every day:
START THE DAY WITHOUT YOUR PHONE
No judgment, friends - we’ve all been there. That little blue screen is a quick way to spike your cortisol and kick-start the day. But what if, instead, you began with gentle rituals that invite your body into safety and softness? Easier said than done? Try making it harder to reach for that little stress machine. Grab an old-fashioned alarm clock and leave your phone somewhere far from your bedroom - the kitchen, maybe? When you wake up, take a few slow breaths, spend five minutes mindfully breathing or reflecting on something you’re grateful for. Enjoy a warm beverage, and then - maybe then - you can check your phone. Let your nervous system wake up slowly instead of jolting it straight into fight-or-flight.
SINGLE TASK SOMETHING SMALL
Choose one daily ritual – making your coffee, walking the dog, having a shower – and give it your full attention. Look around you, feel the textures, notice the sounds – and give yourself permission to fully be with it (even for a moment) like a mini meditation. In yogic philosophy, this is dharana – single pointed focus – which trains your mind to stay calm amidst chaos. Plus, research shows that mindfulness practices like this can reduce anxious rumination by about 30%, helping relax your monkey mind and ease stress.
MOVE GENTLY, CONSISTENTLY
Movement isn’t just for fitness - it’s one of the fastest ways to soothe your nervous system. Of course we want you to join us for a yoga, Pilates, or Qi Gong practice at the studio! But if you can’t make it, a slow roll down, a few stretches on your mat, a short walk outside, or a potter in the garden can all remind your brain that it’s safe to relax. In yoga, this is the embodiment of pranayama and asana (breath and movement) working together to find balance and ease.
SHARE A 20-SECOND HUG
It might sound corny (and perhaps not officially yogic, but definitely hippy dippy), but a long hug can have big effects. Research tells us that a 20-second hug releases oxytocin - the “bonding hormone” - which helps lower blood pressure, slow the heart rate, and ease stress. It’s a reminder that connection is regulation. Whether it’s with a loved one, a friend, or even your pet (if they’ll allow it!), those few seconds of closeness help you anchor and reset.
Rather than overhauling your life, pick one or two simple rituals and actually keep them. This is abhyasa – steady, consistent practice – and it’s what truly shifts your nervous system over time.
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