6 ways to keep Cool, Calm & Contented this Summer
Ah summer, the season of ice cream in abundance, the nostalgic smell of sun cream, al fresco everything. A dream, until the weather ascends into the 30s or 40’s (!) and we begin to descend into discomfort, both physically and mentally.
Feeling hot ‘n’ bothered? You’re not alone.
In peak heatwave season, many of us (in true Brit fashion) do all we can to resist complaining about blue skies and sunshine. Often we feel guilty for not soaking up every moment of frolicking in the sun, but the grouchy feelings that bubble to the surface during heatwaves are underscored by science.
In hot weather, our cardiovascular system increases efforts to regulate temperature. The heart is beating faster than usual, which in turn triggers our sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight). Whilst many of us would like to take a flight directly to the nearest beach, if that ain’t accessible right now, here are five ways that will help keep you feeling cool, calm and connected during these hot summer days:
1 - Sitali (cooling) breath
Sitali pranayama is a cooling breathing technique. A subtle personal air conditioning to soothe both body and mind. Take a look at this tutorial and give it a whirl.
2 - Cooling of pulse points
If you begin to feel overwhelmed, a speedy way to lower body temperature is by bringing coolness to your pulse points. Run cold water over wrists, place a refrigerated flannel around your neck, plunge feet into a bucket of cool water.
3 - Gentle inversions
Inverting the body (heart higher than head) is an effective way to stimulate the rest and digest state (parasympathetic nervous system). As you lift your heart even just slightly above the head, the increased blood flow to the brain triggers a response to slow the heart rate down. A supported bridge pose, child’s pose or gently elevated legs up a wall are great poses to start with.
4 - Fancy water
For those who have never been great at guzzling the h2o, fancy water is a great way to stay hydrated. Hydrating the body is the absolute best way to prevent feeling poorly in the heat, grab your biggest jug - fill it with mint leaves, cucumber, lemons and limes, a pinch of sea salt, then top up with water. Pour over ice, sip on the regular throughout the day. Especially before you head out into the sunshine. Also, pop a shallow bowl of water outdoors (even just on your balcony) for wildlife who will also need the respite.
5 - Adapt your yoga practice
Our asana practice (what we do on the mat) will change as we move through the seasons. During the summer months, the body and mind craves cooling asana and pranayama, so be gentle with yourself. This practice of union is never intended to send the body into imbalance, or as a way to punish by practicing a power yoga class when we are already feeling fiery! Yoga is here to restore balance, so try not to attach to the way your practice usually looks like and allow it to align with what you need right now. That could be a few gentle salutations, or a long savasana beneath the fan.
6 - Wear what you damn well please
Choosing what to wear can be an anxious experience during summer, for so many reasons. Remember your comfort is the most important thing, find materials that help keep you cool (linen is always dreamy), go loose, easy and breezy. You are glorious as you are. There are so many summers that my internal dialogue has prevented me from truly feeling comfortable in my own skin - and building that relationship isn't an overnight shift. It takes continuous compassionate self study, kindness and patience.
If you are local, we will be soaking up cooling practices throughout these warmer summer days. Iced fancy water, fans, essential oils and plenty of space to stretch out. Come and join us on Monday and Thursday evenings. 😊