It's December. It's cold and rainy. I feel like getting under a blanket and hibernating in my warm house. But I know it's also the perfect time to walk myself to the Bloomingdale studio and get back into a regular yoga practice.

The winter brings out something in all of us. For me and many others, seasonal depression kicks in when fresh air is rarer and the sun seems to have stayed in bed. For others, the holidays bring on stress over what to buy, how to decorate, and which holiday party to go to. There is a kind of natural lethargy that comes about, which is healthy, I think to an extent. I love having time to slow down, spend more time at home with my roommates eating delicious food.

However, while entering the winter it's important to create some space in our lives for yoga. Going to a class forces me to be present and connect with my body. If I'm feeling low, I can use yoga to appreciate my body and what it does for me. The yoga studio is a respite from everything else that's going on in our lives and outside. On top of all of that, it's a healthy and inexpensive indulgence.

Sometimes I look for a “pick me up” in the form of a cupcake, or watching my fave TV show (30 Rock), or reading a good book. And these are all usually enjoyable, but I really feel like an hour of yoga is more effective. Afterwards I feel rejuvenated, more balanced, and happier.

This blog post is as much for me as it is for you. Margaret! Go to yoga! That's what I'm saying to myself. You won't regret it.