The summer solstice on June 21st marks the longest day of the year, providing more than 15 hours of sunlight for your yoga practice in the UK.
And as the first day of summer – and marking International Day of Yoga – it’s possibly one of the best days of the year to take your yoga practice outdoors, or start a new one!
Make more of the mornings
Take advantage of the longer day and create time for an early morning or late evening practice.
A morning practice has been shown to improve digestion, stimulate circulation and improve wellbeing. Watching a sunrise regularly can also improve circadian rhythms, which can help you sleep better and regulate blood sugar more effectively.
Sun worship
The word solstice derives from two Latin words, sol (sun) and sistere (to stand still). And many yoga practices revolve around the idea of the sun. With lighter, and hopefully warmer days, you can feel more awake and energised at this time of year. Sun salutations – a traditional way to honour the sun – are a lovely way to build flexibility and strength.
Find your fire
If you’re feeling sluggish, this might be a good time to connect with your inner fire with a breath of fire practice – and burn off those thoughts and emotions you no longer need.
The Solar Plexus Chakra is also associated with energy, willpower and digestion. Stimulate this with a Prayer Pose or Revolved Triangle.
Solstice celebration
But you don’t need to roll out a mat, of course. Create your own solstice celebration by taking a mindful walk in a wood, sitting by water or dancing in bare feet on dewy grass!
Just a few minutes of observing thoughts and noticing your surroundings can be enough. Soak up that Vitamin D and you’ll also boost your mood. Sunlight triggers the release of serotonin, which promote all those lovely feelings of wellbeing.
Consider a summer of self-care with my top tips for finding some me-time, or get in touch to book a summer yoga class.