The Hinge of the Year: Finding Warmth in the Return of the Light

Yesterday, the 21st of December, marked the Winter Solstice, the still point of the year where the hours of darkness reached their peak. Today, the 22nd, we wake up to something different. Although the mornings are still dark, and the temperatures cold, the ‘hinge’ has turned. From today, the light officially begins its return, second by second.

Beyond the Festivities

While the world outside is often covered in forced cheer this week, the reality is that for many (including me personally), late December can be a complex time. With the shortest day just behind us, it is natural to feel the effects of the season. For some, the lack of sunlight impacts our serotonin levels, contributing to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and for others, the Christmas holidays can increase a sense of loneliness or weight of those no longer with us.

To be honest, I often find this time of year a bit of a struggle myself. The lack of light and the busy expectations of the season can feel heavy. If you aren’t feeling particularly merry and bright today, please know that you are simply in tune with the natural world. Like nature, it is okay to be in a period of rest, reflection, or even a little bit of shadow.

The Science of Shared Space

This is why community, true local community, s so vital as we move into the winter months. There is a fascinating branch of science called co-regulation. When we gather in a shared space, our nervous systems begin to talk to one another and furthermore when we move and breathe together in a yoga practice, our heart rates often synchronise, and our levels of Oxytocin (the bonding hormone) rise.

This biological hug happens even if we don’t speak a word. Just being in a room with others, feeling the collective energy of a group physically reduces the stress hormone Cortisol.

The Importance of Environment

There is a reason why, for thousands of years, humans have gathered together during the Solstice season. Physical warmth and a welcoming atmosphere are more than just comforts, they are signals to our nervous system that it is okay to soften. When we are in a space that feels inviting, our bodies move out of protection mode and into a state of rest and recovery.

My focus remains on providing a high quality environment where you can step away from the outside world and focus on your practice. It’s about creating that consistent time in the diary to reconnect (with ourselves and others) and recharge

Looking Ahead

As we look toward 2026, I am reminded that our yoga group is about so much more than the movement we do on the mat. It has become a reliable weekly anchor and a space where I have seen first hand relationships grown over the last eight years…..a space and time where we can reset for the week ahead. So as we move into these first few days of returning light, I encourage you to:

• Be Kind to Yourself: If you are tired, rest.
• Be Kind to Others: A small smile or a ‘how are you’ can be the highlight of someone’s week.
• Look for the Light: The days are officially getting longer from here on out.

Thank you for being part of this wonderful community, near and far. I look forward to us all starting the New Year exactly as we intend to continue: focused, refreshed, and moving forward together.

Warmly,

Claire x