Yoga for daily life: Yoga to keep it cool!

Summer is sizzling away here on the island. And when our bodies are overheating, we tend to become more agitated, competitive and self-critical. This is an imbalance in the body and can also produce physical symptoms like rashes, itches, digestion issues and heart burn. Lovely. So here’s some suggestion on how to keep cool this August.

In the summer, our practice should be cooling, calming and slow. The slower the movement, the less agitated the body and mind. Try the following postures and focus on keeping your attention internally. Be conscious, be mindful and get the most you can from each one.

1) Ustrasana (Camel Pose) – This asana opens up abdomen, solar plexus, and chest, allowing for free movement of energy through these regions.

2) Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) and Dhanurasana (Bow Pose) – Also excellent solar plexus extension. Activates and supports the healthy thyroid gland function that is responsible for internal temperature regulation and metabolism. A better functioning internal thermostat makes hot weather more bearable.

Remember that a practice is always beneficial. Less is more if you can work consciously with full awareness. If you have a usual practice, then slow it down to half the speed and FEEL the difference to your mind and body (and heart) afterwards.

Namaste