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Summer Yoga to Soothe Seasonal Stress

As the temperatures rise and summer unfolds its vibrant tapestry, many of us eagerly welcome the season of sunshine, outdoor adventures, and leisurely days. Yet, for some, including myself, the summer's external intensity can also manifest a less desirous internal intensity, like feeling overstimulated and anxious. Join me in today's blog to explore how yoga can be a powerful tool to soothe this summer stress and how to embrace the season's unique energies.

Summer's Potential for Overstimulation:

Every year, as summer arrives with its heat and energy, I find myself navigating a delicate balance. While I adore the long days, outdoor festivities, and the joyous spirit that summer brings, I also experience a distinct sense of overstimulation. This feeling, akin to nervous-anxiety, manifests as a blend of restlessness and a peculiar paralysis that dampens my enjoyment of the season. Through my years as a yoga teacher and studio owner, I've learned that I'm not alone in these sentiments.

A 5 Element Perspective on Yoga and Summer Stress:

According to Taoist philosophy, each season embodies its own personality, complete with associated emotions and organs. Early summer corresponds to the Fire Element, a time when unconditional love flows freely through the heart. However, a Fire Element imbalance can lead to feelings of restlessness and tension, hindering our ability to fully embrace summer's offerings. Luckily, a mindful summer yoga practice can help remedy this imbalance in qi flow and regulate our emotional input and output.

Yoga Practices to Soothe Summer Stress:

1. Practice Mindful Speech and Quiet: The tongue, considered the sensory organ of the Fire Element, is stimulated by speech. During times of overstimulation, practicing mindful speech and embracing moments of silence can help calm the nervous energy within. Whether in a yoga class or in daily interactions, honoring the power of quietude can be profoundly soothing. Your yoga mat and yoga studio is a natural sanctuary of stillness, so lean into your practice this summer.

2. Extend Savasana: While traditionally savasana concludes yoga practice, extending this final relaxation period during summer can be particularly beneficial. Even a few extra minutes of savasana allows the body and mind to deeply integrate the benefits of yoga, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Adding a few moments of quiet and mindful breathing before you begin your physical practice can also works wonders to regulate the nervous system.

3. Hydration: It's no secret that staying hydrated is crucial during the summer months. Dehydration can exacerbate feelings of anxiety by increasing your heart rate and blood pressure, plus it affects your ability to regulate your body temperature. Take regular water breaks during yoga classes to support your physical health and enhances your overall feelings of wellness.

Best Practices for Yoga Teachers:

As yoga teachers, we play a vital role in supporting our students through seasonal transitions. Here are three practices your students will appreciate this summer:

Use Mindful Verbal Cues and Speech Patterns: Opt for clear, concise cues that facilitate mindfulness and reflection. Balancing verbal instruction with moments of silence can create a nurturing space for students to connect deeply with their practice. Students often absorb and then reflect back their yoga teacher's energy. This means that when you pracitce mindful speech and demonstrate silence is ok and even a welcome respite to overstimulation, your students will more easily absorb this into their own habits and apply it into into their daily lives.

Prioritize Final Relaxation: Ensure that every yoga class includes adequate time for savasana within the scheduled session. This allows all students, even those with tight schedules, to fully experience the benefits of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Promote Hydration: Lead by example by staying hydrated yourself and incorporating designated water breaks into your class sequences. Educate students on the importance of hydration and its impact on overall well-being, especially during these summer heat waves.

In Conclusion

Summer invites us to embrace boundless energy and revel in life's abundance. By integrating mindful yoga practices into our summer routines, we can navigate the season with greater ease and enjoyment. Whether you're a seasoned yogi, a yoga teacher, or new to the practice, may these insights help soothe your summer stress and cultivate a deeper connection with the radiant spirit of the season.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. Here's to a summer filled with peace, joy, and mindful living.

Namaste,

Lara