There are so many different types of self care – Facemasks, bath bombs, or even taking a break from social media. Whenever I find myself stressed out and checking my phone at the end of the day, I try to change my routine by creating a peaceful environment and practicing yoga in my own apartment. I love to stretch at the end of the day because I feel like it releases all of my stressors and resets my attitude. An essential part of my self care is to spend some time creating this calming atmosphere and then taking the time to practice yoga. Here’s my guide to creating your own yoga session that will fulfill all of your self care needs.

The first thing that I do is set out the candles in my apartment. I currently have a candle with a crackling wood wick and the sound is so soothing. I highly recommend getting one next time you need a candle. I also put on the comfiest clothes that I can find for my yoga practice. A warm sweater and fuzzy socks make all the difference.

The next step is to set the mood by choosing a playlist for the duration of your practice. Sometimes I listen to traditional yoga music, and sometimes I change it up and put on Taylor Swift songs that I can fondly zen out to. The last step before I start the class is to make sure all of my yoga props are close by – A bolster, blanket, strap or block could come in handy if it is in close proximity. I would have to say that an eye pillow is the most important yoga prop for a self care night, so definitely utilize this gem if you have one.

The most gratifying yoga class for a self care evening is the Let It Go Yoga sequence. It’s the perfect balance of intense stretching and total relaxation. If you have done it before, you understand and appreciate the routine. If you have never tried it, you’ll discover how powerful each posture can be. It’s very rewarding to settle down on a yoga mat and spend the evening focusing on yourself. I often find that yoga is just what I need if I have done a strenuous activity like bouldering, spinning or lifting weights. I feel at ease immediately after the practice and it helps to calm my nerves. I find that holding this set of postures rejuvenates my body each and every time that I complete the practice.

An additional act of self care after completing the Let It Go Yoga sequence is to add a couple of restorative yoga postures with the props around you. It’s the perfect way to fully relax and let go. If you’d like some recommendations on which restorative yoga poses to try, click here to read an article that I wrote on some of my favorites.

After yoga practice, I drink some tea to prolong the blissful restored state that I’m in. And I like to draw a card or two from my favorite affirmation card deck. The whole experience is incredibly comforting, and I highly recommend trying this out whenever you feel like taking some time for yourself.

Feel free to share your Let It Go yoga experiences and preferred forms of self care below

Written by Emily Parsons, Certified Let It Go Yoga teacher.

Want to know more about Let It Go Yoga? Start here with our Diaphragmatic Breathing Video!