Winter can challenge even the most committed yoga practitioner. As the colder months settle in, stiffness, lethargy, inconsistency, doubt, and distraction often begin to interrupt the continuity of practice. Drawing from the Introduction to Light on Yoga, this article explores Patañjali’s chitta viksepas — the obstacles and disturbances that hinder steadiness of mind — and examines how they appear in modern practice, particularly during winter. Through the insights of B. K. S. Iyengar, the post reflects on how regular asana and pranayama can help cultivate resilience, clarity, and inner stability during the colder season.

Central Yoga School has added some new specialist classes to our 2025 timetable. This post is a joint contribution of the teachers of each class (with a perky introduction from Jackie!) to clarify why these sessions are offered, and what to expect.