Christmas is magical, isn’t it?
The crackle of the fireplace, the warmth of a cup of hot cocoa, and the glow of twinkling lights — it’s the perfect setting to pause and recharge.
But amidst all the magic, the season can also be overwhelming.
That’s why I’m inviting you to join me in practicing eight cozy yoga poses by the fire. Together, we’ll slow down, stretch, and reconnect with ourselves during this festive time.
Grab your mat, roll it out near the fire, and let’s create a holiday tradition that’s all about warmth, comfort, and a little self-love.
1) Child’s Pose (Balasana): Finding peace in simplicity
Let’s begin with a pose that feels like a warm hug for your body.
Child’s Pose might seem simple, but trust me — it’s one of the most powerful ways to let go of tension.
For me, this pose is where I come back to myself. Kneeling by the fire, forehead resting gently on the mat, there’s a quiet stillness that settles in.
The warmth of the fire amplifies the relaxation, making this pose a true holiday favorite.
How to make it your own:
Instead of just folding forward, take a moment to set an intention.
What do you want to let go of this holiday season? Stress? Overwhelm?
As you exhale, imagine releasing those feelings into the flames.
Let’s take a deep breath together—inhale calm, exhale all the holiday chaos. Doesn’t that feel better already?
2) Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana): Flow like the flames
The fire’s flicker has a rhythm, doesn’t it?
Cat-Cow Pose is a perfect way to match that flow.
This gentle spinal movement warms up your body while calming your mind—a must after a day of wrapping gifts or running errands.
When I practice Cat-Cow by the fire, I imagine my breath syncing with the flames. Each inhale lifts me into Cow Pose, chest open, and each exhale rounds me into Cat Pose, spine curved.
It’s a flow that feels both grounding and energizing.
Here’s the thing: this pose isn’t just about your back. It’s about creating space for movement and breath, even in the busiest of seasons.
So let’s move together, letting the warmth of the fire guide us.
3) Seated Forward Fold (Paschimottanasana): A moment to reflect
Christmas always makes me reflective. As I sit by the fire, watching the flames dance, I think about the year behind me and the one ahead.
Seated Forward Fold is the perfect pose for this kind of introspection.
When you fold over your legs, it’s more than a stretch — it’s a chance to turn inward. Feel the length of your spine, the stretch in your hamstrings, and the quiet in your mind.
Pro tip: If your legs feel tight, place a blanket under your knees or sit on a cushion. The goal isn’t to reach your toes—it’s to find a fold that feels supportive and comforting.
Now I encourage you to use this time to reflect.
- What are you most grateful for this season?
- What do you want to carry forward into the new year?
4) Reclined Butterfly Pose (Supta Baddha Konasana): Opening the heart
What would Christmas be without a little love and gratitude?
Reclined Butterfly Pose is one of my favorite ways to open the heart and let those feelings flow.
Lying by the fire, with the soles of your feet together and your knees falling open, you’ll feel an incredible sense of release. Place one hand on your heart and the other on your belly.
Feel the rise and fall of your breath.
This pose isn’t just relaxing — it’s restorative.
It helps counteract all the hunching over we do during the holidays, from gift wrapping to scrolling for last-minute deals.
Here’s a challenge:
As you breathe, think of three things you’re grateful for right now. For me, it’s the warmth of the fire, the stillness of this moment, and the chance to share this practice with you.
5) Happy Baby Pose (Ananda Balasana): Embracing holiday joy
Let’s be honest — when was the last time you felt playful?
Well, Happy Baby Pose is a wonderful way to reconnect with that lighthearted part of yourself.
Lying on your back, with your knees bent and your hands holding your feet, this pose feels joyful and freeing. The warmth of the fire makes it even cozier, almost like being wrapped in a blanket of happiness.
Why I love it: This pose always reminds me to let go of perfection.
Whether my pose looks picture-perfect or not, the goal is to feel good. And isn’t that what the holidays are about?
Let’s rock side to side together, like babies in a cradle. Let’s find the joy in simply being.
6) Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani): A moment of surrender
Have you ever felt like your legs were carrying the weight of the holidays?
All that standing, shopping, and cooking can leave them feeling heavy.
Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose is the perfect antidote.
This simple inversion improves circulation, reduces swelling, and gives your tired legs a well-deserved break. And by the fire? It’s pure magic.
When I practice this pose, I feel an immediate sense of relief—not just in my body, but in my mind. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most effective thing you can do is stop and let the world turn without you for a moment.
7) Twisted Roots Pose (Supta Matsyendrasana Variation): Detox and destress
After indulging in all those holiday treats (hello, cookies, and hot cocoa), Twisted Roots Pose is my go-to.
This gentle twist helps with digestion while releasing tension in the lower back and hips.
Here’s a rhetorical question for you:
Have you ever noticed how much tension we carry without realizing it?
Twists like this one are incredible for wringing out stress and making space for something new.
As you lie by the fire, let the warmth deepen your stretch and encourage you to release.
8) Savasana: The ultimate stillness
No yoga session is complete without Savasana, especially when practiced by the fire. This final resting pose is the ultimate way to soak in the peace and stillness of the moment.
Lying back, with the warmth of the fire enveloping you, you’ll feel a deep sense of relaxation wash over you.
Close your eyes, breathe naturally, and let the magic of the holidays settle into your heart.
How to practice:
- Lie flat on your back with your arms by your sides, palms facing up.
- Close your eyes and breathe deeply, allowing your body to fully relax.
- Stay here for 5–10 minutes, letting go of all the tension.
This pose is a gift you give yourself — a moment of pure stillness in the midst of the holiday rush.
Final Thoughts: Let’s Make This a Holiday Tradition
Yoga by the fireplace isn’t just a practice — it’s a gift to yourself.
Together, we’ve explored poses that bring warmth, calm, and joy to the holiday season.
Now, here’s my challenge to you:
- Try this sequence for 8 days leading up to Christmas.
- Invite a friend or family member to join you—it’s more fun together!
- Reflect on how these poses make you feel, both physically and emotionally.
This holiday season, let’s embrace the magic of stillness, the warmth of connection, and the joy of movement.
Let’s make yoga by the fire a tradition that nourishes us, year after year.
