Embrace Summer with Ayurvedic-Inspired Yoga

As the summer sun graces us with longer days and warmer nights, it’s the perfect opportunity to align your yoga practice with the wisdom of Ayurveda. Summer is Pitta season, where the qualities of heat, sharpness, and intensity dominate. To balance these fiery energies, Ayurveda encourages us to embrace practices that are cooling, grounding, and calming—both on and off the mat.

Yoga Practices for Summer Balance

1. Slow Down and Cool Off
   Summer is not the time for intense, fast-paced yoga flows. Instead, focus on a slower, more restorative practice. Gentle asanas (postures) like forward bends, twists, and hip openers help to release excess heat while grounding your energy. Incorporate cooling poses like:

• Child’s Pose (Balasana)

• Supine Twist (Supta Matsyendrasana)

• Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani)

1. Prioritise Morning or Evening Practice
   Avoid practicing during the heat of the day. Early morning or late evening sessions help you harness the cooler energies of the day, leaving you refreshed and centred.

2. Incorporate Pranayama (Breathwork)
   Cooling breathwork practices are especially beneficial during summer. Try:

• Sheetali Pranayama: These techniques help to cool the body and mind, reducing Pitta’s fiery qualities.

• Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing): This balances the nervous system and promotes calm.

1. Stay Grounded with Meditation
   Pair your yoga with meditation to calm the mind and reduce summer agitation. Visualising soothing natural elements like water or moonlight during your practice can amplify the cooling effect.

2. Practice Under Nature’s Canopy
   If possible, take your mat outside. Practicing yoga under a shady tree or in a cool garden helps you connect with nature’s grounding and rejuvenating energies.

3. End with Shavasana
   Always finish with Shavasana (Corpse Pose) to allow the body to absorb the cooling and calming benefits of your practice. Consider placing a cool, damp cloth over your forehead for added relaxation.

Ayurveda and Festive Wellbeing

As we embrace the joy and togetherness of the holiday season, it’s important to balance the natural excitement with moments of self-care and mindfulness. Ayurveda reminds us to nourish both body and mind during this busy time. Stay hydrated, choose cooling foods and drinks, and don’t forget to pause amidst the festivities to ground yourself with your yoga practice.

A Heartfelt Christmas Wish

From all of us at VIDA Ayurveda, we wish you a joyful and peaceful festive season. May this summer bring you moments of calm, connection, and reflection, surrounded by your loved ones. Thank you for being part of our community and for trusting us on your wellness journey.

We’re excited for all that’s to come in the new year and look forward to continuing to support you in cultivating balance, vitality, and well-being.

Happy holidays and a beautiful start to 2025!

With love and gratitude,
Mariana and the VIDA Ayurveda Team