2026 - The Year of the Horse

This Newsletter has been on my mind for at least a week. At times I’m not too sure what is

appropriate to share. Those of you who know me know that I wear my heart on my sleeve and can at times “share” too much. When I was told it was the Year of the Horse and I went down the Google rabbit hole to investigate, I knew what I needed to share. Yoga and Horses are my favorite things.

The element is fire and energy, and as yogis, we know what that is about, especially you hot

yoga practitioners. We know what it takes to dig deep and give it all. The traits are dynamic,

energetic, passionate, and adventurous, encouraging bold actions and personal growth. This is all to be fulfilled carefully and with balance. The year of the horse is a time for bold decisions and setting goals. This high energy requires internal harmony, thus rest and calming practices, attention to your physical well-being, protection, and listening to the heart. Practicing the yogic traditions like ayurvedic medicine, take your dosha quiz, and those of you who always want the spicy might need to practice moderation. Meditation and journaling are also beautiful ways to reduce stress and create balance in the day. If you are a person who only goes hard on the yoga mat, you might want to visit a soothing class once a week. The body needs to work, thus the fire element, but also balance and rest, or burnout happens. (Keep in mind, just suggestions. Take what you want, and leave the rest.)

The Horse is very confident and agreeable. I love being around them. They are fit, intelligent,

and adore physical and mental exercise. This is the year to find your “herd” and strengthen bonds with family and friends. Find your people by expressing your true self and your inner truth. This year of the horse is a year to leave behind old patterns and embrace the transformation of your life. During the year of the Horse, boldness will be rewarded, always moving forward. We know this through the practice of asana. Now, how can we take all that we have learned and apply it to our lives with balance and integrity?

Some of you have been with me for going on 14 years, and you know this has been a rough year at the studio and in my personal life. I lost my mother, my best friend, and the person who knew me best. I love her, but she was trapped inside her body. The lord called her home on September 9. I have reinvested in my relationship with God and started praying again since her death.

“Do not pray for an easy life. Pray for the strength to endure a hard one.” Bruce Lee said. He also said, "that a good life is found in the flow. Be like water." We all know the flow; sometimes we feel it, it’s right there, and other days we cannot. As students of yoga and life, we are not afraid of failure. We fail by daring greatly now, lowering the bar, but by aiming High with great skill and strength like a horse.

Have a great 2026!

Love, Susan