“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” — Albert Camus

As we cross the threshold into mid-winter, we often find ourselves at odds with our environment. Our modern culture is built on a solar-obsessed model: constant growth, visible achievement, and the relentless pursuit of “light.” But the wisdom of Yoga teaches us that the universe is governed by the dance of the Trigunas—the three fundamental forces of nature. To ignore the quiet, heavy quality of Tamas (inertia/darkness) is to ignore half of the human experience.

In this first week of our 6-week journey, From Darkness to Seed, we begin with a radical philosophical shift: The Gift of the Dark...

The Philosophy of Tamas: Stillness as a Sacred Vessel

Tamas can often be misunderstood as something to be “overcome.” It is associated with lethargy, darkness, and stagnation. However, in the context of the seasons, Tamas is the necessary precursor to Sattva (clarity).

Think of the earth as a Hiranyagarbha (The Golden Womb). For a seed to germinate, it requires the pressurised, dark, and cool environment of the soil. This is the Pratyahara of the earth—a complete withdrawal of external senses and outward growth to consolidate energy at the core.

When we honor the darkness in our practice, we are practicing Santosha (contentment) in its most profound form. It is the ability to sit in the void of winter without the ego-driven need to fix, fill, or flee from it. We are learning to trust that the lack of visible movement is not a lack of progress.

The Practice: A Slow Radiance

Our physical practice this week honors the the downward-flowing energy that grounds and stabilises us. While we will build heat, we do so through the regulation of life force. We aren’t looking for an explosive fire, but rather the steady, radiant glow of a bed of coals.

The flow will be characterized by:

• Low Center of Gravity: Staying close to the earth to stimulate the Muladhara (Root) Chakra.
• Slow-Motion Transitions: Using the resistance of the air to build a deep, muscular heat that doesn’t agitate the nervous system.
• Isometric Holds: Building strength in stillness, mirroring the strength of the winter trees whose roots grow even while their branches are bare.

The primary teaching of Week 1 is Santosha (Contentment). Usually, we practice contentment when things are going well. The deeper “gift” is practicing Santosha when the external world is cold, quiet, or uncertain.

Ready to stop rushing through winter and start growing through it? Give yourself 6 weeks of steady heat, deep nourishment, and soulful reflection. Your mat is waiting…

Deep Inquiry: Journaling for the Fallow Season

These prompts are designed to bridge the gap between your mat and your life. Use them to investigate the “hidden” work currently happening within you.