Gayatri Mantra

Gayatri Mantra
This Vedic mantra serves to illuminate our innate knowledge - our deepest and most unique Truth. The Gayatri is one of the most well-known and beneficial of ancient Sanskrit mantras as it is a mantra of healing.

I often sing this mantra to myself on days when I am experiencing an obstacle that is preventing me from being present - on days when I feel overwhelmed and need grounding and inspiration. The soothing rhythm of this mantra returns me to this moment and settles my mind for whatever task is at hand.

Aum Bhur Bhuva Svah 
Tat Savitur Varenyam 
Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi 
Dhiyo Yo Naha Prachodayat

On the absolute reality and its planes,
On that finest spiritual light,
We meditate, as remover of obstacles
That it may inspire and enlighten us.

Nadi Shodhana: Alternate Nostril Breathing

Nadi Shodhana, alternate nostril breathing, is my favorite pranayama for this time of the year. Winter is a vata season and I've found my mind spinning on many occasions with holiday parties, an increase in cookie consumption, and the incredible life changes happening all around me. Nadi Shodhana is how I find balance and invite joy back into the days that seem like an endless journey of crazy. When I'm feeling particularly distractible, I also like to accompany pranayama with the mantra "inhale-exhale."

http://www.curejoy.com/content/simple-pranayama-technique/