Winter Rituals for Self-Care: Rest and Renewal at Prana Yoga Center

Time is often called our most valuable asset, yet many of us find ourselves giving it away freely—shaped by upbringing, societal expectations, and the responsibilities of caring for others. While our individual histories differ, there is a shared truth across generations: the days feel long, the years feel short, and there never seems to be enough time.

From students navigating the education system to loved ones entering retirement, the feeling is the same: time moves quickly, and rest is often postponed. This raises an important question: how do we reclaim our time without abandoning what truly matters?

At Prana Yoga Center, the answer begins with discernment. Rather than saying yes to everything, this practice invites a return to what is supportive, nourishing, and aligned. While daily responsibilities remain essential, constantly placing others first without tending to ourselves can quietly lead to depletion.

This understanding inspired the creation of a three-hour mini-retreat, Winter Rituals for Self Care—an offering designed by Sarah Lindgren as an antidote to the belief that self-sacrifice or overexertion is the only way to care for oneself. Instead, this retreat invites participants to slow down, let go of unnecessary demands, and prioritize time, energy, and self-care as acts of self-respect.

When space is made for rest—whether alone or in the presence of others—creativity, joy, and curiosity naturally return. From this place of fullness, it becomes possible to show up for life with greater ease and authenticity.

“When we give ourselves permission to rest—whether alone or in the company of those we love—we return to the sacred power of our own knowing. From this place, creativity, joy, and curiosity naturally arise.”

— SARA LINDGREN

What to Expect

This mini retreat follows an intentional energetic arc, moving gently from mindful action into deep rest. Through unhurried, grounding movement, participants are supported in processing the overstimulation of daily life while reconnecting with the body’s natural rhythms.

You’ll move slowly and intentionally, allowing time to linger in the ease and calm often found in savasana—but rarely given enough space to integrate fully. This extended attention helps cultivate a more lasting sense of inner peace.

A guided meditation follows the movement practice, supporting the body and mind in maintaining this serene state. From there, participants are invited to enjoy a light Ayurvedic tea and nourishing snack, allowing the nervous system to continue settling before the next phase of the experience.

Face Yoga & Abhyanga Self-Massage

After a brief break, participants are invited to change into clothing that supports face yoga and abhyanga self-massage—two deeply restorative practices that encourage lymphatic flow, nourish the skin, and foster energetic lightness.

These practices are known to support:

• Improved immune function

• Reduced swelling and bloating

• Deep relaxation

• Gentle detoxification through lymphatic movement

Face yoga combines soft stretches and exercises that promote circulation, tone, and glow. Abhyanga, a traditional Ayurvedic self-massage practice, uses warm oil chosen for the season or constitution to calm the nervous system and nourish the body.

Each participant will receive:

• A gua sha tool to keep

• A small bottle of massage oil

• A printed instruction sheet for continued home practice

Together, these tools make it easy to carry the retreat experience into daily life.

Preparing for the Retreat

This experience includes:

• Slow Hatha yoga

• Light snacks and tea

• Guided self-massage

Because the massage portion involves contact with the skin, participants are encouraged to bring:

• Two full-size towels

• One smaller towel (washcloth or hand towel)

• Comfortable clothing or swimwear that can tolerate oil

• Optional robe or extra layers for the drive home

Once home, a warm bath or shower is a beautiful way to continue the sense of ease and integration.

With this gift of slowness, participants are invited to reconnect with balance, restoration, and inner clarity. This retreat offers an opportunity to return to a pace of life that honors becoming—one rooted not in constant doing, but in presence, worthiness, and care.

Join the Mini Retreat

Winter Rituals for Self-Care: A Mini Retreat
Led by Sarah Lindgren

Sunday, January 11, 2026
12–3 PM

This experience is designed for anyone seeking a slower, more intentional pace—no prior experience needed. All are welcome.