Seasonal Yoga for Mind and Body — A Moment of Cool Serenity

Summer is now in full swing. It is a season filled with vibrant solar energy, naturally inspiring both our minds and bodies to become more active.

When nature's energy reaches its high point, our focus easily shifts outward, and we tend to overfill our schedules. Yet, precisely because this is a time for activity, taking a step back for a moment of rest becomes more important than ever.

Balancing Summer with Yin and Yang

In the principles of Yin and Yang—found at the root of yoga and Oriental medicine—we balance summer’s strong "Yang" energy by intentionally bringing in elements of "Yin" (stillness, rest, and cooling).

Taking time to step away from the noise outside and turn your awareness inward, using deep breaths to relax the body and soothe internal heat, helps prevent summer fatigue.

Furthermore, factors like summer heat, air conditioning, and temperature differences between indoors and outdoors accumulate more fatigue in our minds and bodies than we might realize. It is essential to listen to your state each day and harmonize yourself through breath. By enhancing circulation and regulating the autonomic nervous system with deep inhalations and exhalations, you can refresh your body from the inside out.

Creating a Little Inner Space for Yourself

In daily life, remember to give yourself permission to ease up.

"I should be able to do more." "I have to work harder."

When you catch yourself having these thoughts, pause and return to your breath. Creating a little space and pause within yourself can work wonders.

To help you stay healthy every day, here is the Downward-Facing Dog pose—a wonderful practice to stretch your entire body and refresh your mind.

Pose of the Season: Downward-Facing Dog 

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Start on All Fours Position your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips.
2. Set Your Foundation Press firmly through the palms of your hands and gently engage your core.
3. Lift Your Hips Exhale as you lift your knees off the floor, reaching your hips up toward the ceiling.
4. Lengthen Your Spine Extend your arms and back straight, keeping your spine long.
5. Listen to Your Body Don't worry about forcing your heels to touch the floor; it is completely fine to keep your knees slightly bent. Prioritize a comfortable stretch along your back.
6. Breathe Deeply Maintain slow, deep, and steady breaths.
7. Release the Pose When you are ready to finish, gently lower your knees back to the floor.

 

Tips for Comfort

• Turn your awareness inward. Use each inhalation to comfortably lengthen your spine, and use each exhalation to connect with your core.
• Lift your hips high, pointing your sit bones toward the ceiling.
• Gaze gently toward your navel, relaxing your neck and shoulders while continuing to breathe deeply and smoothly.

Caring for Your Active and Restful Self

Give yourself a short yoga session to build a resilient body that withstands the summer heat.

This season, embrace both sides of yourself: the active you that enjoys summer, and the quiet you that takes peaceful rest. And remember to treat your hardworking mind and skin to plenty of nourishing moisture!

 

 

Mayuko | Yoga Instructor Active mainly in Saitama, Japan. Completed RYT200. Delivering gentle yoga for the mind and body. Cherishing moments to reset and find comfort in the midst of a busy daily life.