Holi, the festival of colors, always reminds me of the upcoming Spring season. It signifies the end of Winter when things are dark and heavy, it leads us to light and new paths for growth as Spring approaches. It is marked in Ayurveda by the junction of Shishira (winter) and Vasanta (spring) seasons. These 15 days between seasons is a way to get our digestion, which is strong during winter, to spring and summer, where our digestion runs a little less strong. Spring delivers the qualities of Kapha dosa which can lead to nasal allergies, respiratory disorders and weak digestion. So as we move into Spring, think of things that might ignite your digestive fire. Warm water in the morning, a LITTLE bit of heat like peppers or black pepper and less things like yogurt, cheese and ice cream which can slow down your agni (digestion).
Holi is celebrated by the Homa, the burning of a ritual fire. I encourage you all to create your own Ritual Fire by inviting in the directions. Ignite your own fire symbolically or literally. Be in your backyard with feet in the earth, who cares what your neighbors think, in these times we can all use LIGHT.
You can hold a candle in your hand during this ritual.
Face East: Imagine a Goddess in Yellow, with Air /Vayu as its element
Face South: Imagine a Goddess in Red, with Fire/Agni as its element
Face West: Imagine a Goddess in Blue, with Water/Apo as its element
Face North: Imagine a Goddess in Green, with Earth/Prthvi as its element
As you face each direction think or chant Om Shantis, Shantis, Shantihi (Om peace, peace, peace).
Be well. Be Safe.
Love. Light.
JennyO
Corazón Yoga 