7 minute read
Yoga Nidra
SETTING INTENTIONS FOR THE YEAR AHEAD WITH YOGA NIDRA
For many of us the closing of one year and the beginning of the next feels like a natural time to reflect on the past and look towards the future, perhaps imagining and planning what type of year we would like to have. This year in particular I feel it’s important to take time to absorb all we have been through in the last 12 months, all that we have lost, all that we have experienced, all that we have gained. By digesting the past year as best as we are able to, we can then more clearly tune into our hopes and dreams and aspirations for the year ahead. I teach an annual workshop each January called ‘Stretch, Relax and Resolve’. It’s a yoga and meditation workshop designed to sweep away cobwebs and set intentions for the year ahaed. We focus on stretches to release tension in the body, meditation and breathing techniques to release tension in the mind and a long guided relaxation known as yoga nidra. Yoga nidra can bring an incredible calmness, quietness & clarity, allowing us to connect to our unconscious mind and with this connection we look to discover what we really want for ourselves in the coming year. Though often translated as yogic sleep, during yoga nidra we are in a relaxed state of awake-ness. In true sleep our conscious mind switches off and our unconscious mind takes control. In yoga nidra the conscious mind remains active and as we relax, we are able to make a connection to our unconscious mind. We can then use the conscious mind to direct the unconscious mind, very much like self-hypnosis. We traditionally use the connection between the two parts of the mind to make a resolve and
this resolve is known as a sankalpa. I have found that teaching yoga nidra and sankalpa discovery around the new year works really well as it’s a time when many are thinking about making New Year’s resolutions. When people are naturally thinking about what they might want to change or add into their lives, it means they are already in a reflective frame of mind and that’s helpful for the practice. It also means that I am able to offer something to my students that supports where they are in this moment, looking to the year ahead.
Of course every day is a new day and January is not imbued with special magic. While the new year is a conventional time to make resolutions, each new moment offers the same opportunity for us to connect to our true selves and yoga nidra can be practiced at any time.
If you are interested and want to know more about the practice of yoga nidra, please do get in touch. I am always more than happy to talk about yoga.
Wishing you clarity for the year ahead. Take good care of yourself, Clair.
TRAVEL INSPIRATION:
SARDINIA
By Harden Holidays
At the point of writing this article the new strand of the virus is making waves through Kent and London and with all travel banned in and out of the country it is hard to picture what 2021 will look like for the travel industry. We are yet again bracing ourselves for the worst and hoping for the best. Yes, even amongst all this chaos we strongly believe that there is hope and that the vaccination programme and testing programme will see beautiful holiday memories created yet again in 2021 for all of us. In the meantime, here is some travel inspiration for you: Top Reasons why Sardinia is perfect for a romantic getaway Romantic getaways are the perfect opportunity to spend time with your loved one and visit a beautiful destination together. Whether it is a spontaneous or planned trip away, honeymoon, anniversary or even perhaps to pop that special question, Sardinia is the place to visit. As no one conveys ‘amore’ like the Italians, what destination could be more perfect? The stunning surroundings, splendid food and wine are sure to make you fall in love with the destination as well as each other. Our top reasons to visit Sardinia on a romantic getaway have to be the exceptional hotels, wonderful beaches, excellent food, drink and numerous activities and places to visit to enjoy together.
Beaches in Sardinia Boasting numerous white sandy beaches and azure waters you can find the perfect spot to relax and swim. Sunning yourselves on the sand and dipping yourself in an out of the warm sea is the ideal scenario for you and your partner to unwind and enjoy each other’s company. You will be spoilt for choice with so many glorious beaches in both the
north and south of the island. There is the quiet beach of Capo Spartivento in the south or, the national Sardinian monument of Cala Goloritzè, a beautiful bay that is only accessible via the sea. For those who are more active, watersports are in abundance with prominent winds and the warm temperatures of the Mediterranean Sea. Sardinia is known as one of the top watersports destinations in the Mediterranean with many of the activities wind-based including, surfing, windsurfing, sailing and most recently, kite surfing. For both beach-lovers and watersports enthusiasts we recommend heading to the resorts near Porto Cervo such as, Golfo Aranci and Cannigione in northern Sardinia.
Treat yourselves in Porto Cervo The coastal area of Costa Smeralda is sure to impress with its sophisticated and exclusive atmosphere and the impressive town of Porto Cervo. There is a plethora of fine dining options with elegant restaurants and cafes offering spectacular views of the coast. Why not treat yourselves to some delicious Sardinian cuisine, such as the local speciality of porchetto otherwise known as suckling pig, over a glass of Mirto followed by Limoncello. Find love in the Sardinian countryside If you are one for a little adventure I suggest edging away from the coast to hike, walk or stroll around the delightful countryside, traditional towns and villages. Or aboard the little green train (Trenino Verde) which will take you from Palau to Tempio, Bosa to Macomer and Arbatax to Mandas showing you the best of Sardinia’s beautiful landscape. Equally why not hop onto a ferry across to Corisca to spend time on this exquisite French island. If you are after somewhere a bit quieter and more secluded, then catch a boat to one of the islands of archipelago La Maddalena.
Romance in the city Southern Sardinia is home to the island’s capital Cagliari, ideal for those looking for a romantic city getaway. There are plenty of vibrant restaurants, bars, cafes and numerous shops. The medieval old quarter of Castello with its cathedral and watchtowers will make for a wonderful morning or afternoon stroll. There are also beautiful sandy beaches for those wanting to relax and enjoy the sun after a day around the town. Most romantic place to stay in Sardinia Sardinia is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in the Mediterranean offering Sardinian charm, sophistication, luxury and excellent service. Whether you’re staying the north or the south you will be sure to stay in style, luxury and comfort. If you are looking for somewhere special to take your loved one then I would recommend the five-star Hotel Capo d’Orso Thalasso & Spa located in Cala Capra Bay, four kilometres from the town of Palau in the north-east of the island. This exclusive hotel is surrounded by stunning beaches and offers fantastic facilities, high quality service and outstanding dining. With breakfast served to the calming sound of a harp what could be a more romantic start to your day? There are two beaches by the hotel and a private marina offering boat hire and boat excursions. If you simply wish to relax then why not spend some time together in the Thalasso and Spa wellness centre.
For a trip to Sardinia or any other part of world come and talk to us in Dartford town centre or contact us via email info@ hardenholidays.co.uk or call us on 0800 023 8974 number. Make sure you follow us on social media for further inspiration and exclusive offers.
