December 2025 Newsletter – Dorchester Yoga and Therapy Centre

Stillness cloaks the land as we enter December; earth energy is under our feet. This time of stillness, this time of darkness, is a time to do nothing much!!! The earth energy draws down the life force of trees and plants, nourishing their roots and supporting them in a well-earned rest. The long hours of darkness encourage us to do the same.

A time to focus on the internal limbs of yoga, the last 3 of the 8 limbs of Patanjali’s yoga.

Pratyhara – sense withdrawal, being disconnected from the usual external objects, following the inward movement of the mind.
Dharana – concentration – one chosen place of focus. This may be tangible, eg a candle or firelight, or conceptual, eg peace. What is important is that it is an appropriate focus that supports us.
Dhyanam – meditation, this is when dharana is sustained on the same focus so that a more intimate connection develops between the meditator and the object.

Winter is our natural rest and restore. The need to rest so that we can rise again, the cycle of life. As the outer world surrenders its light, the inner world can sparkle and shine, and make space for healing inside.

These dark days of the year have been celebrated with many festivals and temples since ancient times. All looking towards and celebrating the return of the light. We have two events to celebrate the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year:

Saturday 20th 10.00-1.00pm – Winter Solstice with Sian Alcock
Saturday 20th 7.00-9.00pm – Candlelight Yoga With Kim Jones and Owen Lister

Many of our teachers and therapists will take time off this month for a well-earned rest, but we still have lots available to help you wind down, so check the events below.

Have a peaceful, joyful and restful time, and we look forward to welcoming you back in 2026.

Sharon and all

Looking forward to the New Year

We hope to celebrate the 10 years that Dorchester Yoga and Therapy Centre has been open, so watch this space for events.

April 3rd is the start date of the 3 year Viniyoga Teacher Training Course with Kim Burnham and myself. We have another Open Day on February 7th 2026, if you would like to find out more.

New Wednesday evening class starting January 7th with Katie Grace:
Yoga, Meditation & Sound