Self Compassion During the Holidays

The holidays can bring a lot of expectations around our bodies, food, and routines. This gathering is an invitation to reconnect with your body and approach yourself with curiosity and kindness rather than judgment, through guided meditation, breathwork, gentle movement, and sauna. This is a three-part series exploring different themes of self-compassion through the holidays and into the new year. Each gathering stands on its own, so join whichever sessions speak to you, or experience the full series.

Explore during Session 1 (November 18):

• Mindful body scan meditation to reconnect with physical sensations.
• Bhramari Pranayama (Humming Bee Breath) to stimulate the vagus nerve and support digestion.
• Gentle somatic movement, unwinding, and self-abdominal massage.
• Time for reflection through journaling or creative prompts.

Explore during Session 2 (December 16):

• Metta (Loving-Kindness) meditation to cultivate compassion for yourself and others.
• Rectangle Breathing and somatic energy shifts (tapping, shaking, and rhythmic bouncing) to clear stuck stress.
• Time for reflection through journaling or creative prompts.

Explore during Session 3 (January 13):

• Traditional "So Hum" mantra meditation to cultivate awareness and connection with yourself.
• Bhastrika Pranayama (Bellows Breath) paired with Padma (Lotus) Mudra to explore breath, energy, and openness.
• Gentle heart-opening somatic movement to release tension and create space for self-acceptance.
• Exploring Santosha (contentment) and letting go of rigid resolutions and expectations.
• Time for reflection through journaling or creative prompts.

Begin with an hour of guided practices, including grounding, a short Dharma talk, meditation, breathwork, gentle movement, and reflection. Afterward, enjoy 60 minutes of self-paced sauna and cold plunge. No prior experience with meditation or breathwork is needed.