summer notes

A gentle guide to seasonal yoga and wellbeing, created in collaboration with local yoga teacher Angela Thompson.

Summer is a season of warmth, connection and transformation. Energy is at its peak — expansive, rising and outward-moving, drawing us into the world.

In seasonal yoga, this is the season of the Heart and Small Intestine, linked to joy, communication and emotional balance. The element is Fire; the energy, Yang; the colour, red.

Here are a few gentle ways to move with it.

Joy & connection

Summer invites us to spend time with friends and family, laugh more, and put love into whatever we do.

When life feels overstimulating, breathwork, meditation and EFT (tapping) can help bring us back to balance.

Open your heart by opening your arms.

Breath practice

Sit comfortably and inhale slowly through the nose.

Exhale gently and fully, imagining a soft pink or pale green light entering the heart space along with feelings of love, joy and gratitude.

Continue for two to five minutes, allowing the breath to soften the body and steady the mind.

Hridaya (Heart) mudra

Bring the index finger to the base of the thumb, then lightly touch the thumb, middle finger and ring finger together.

Traditionally associated with opening the heart, emotional balance and compassion. Hold during meditation, or in quiet moments through the day.

Heart-opening pose

Summer practices often focus on opening across the chest, releasing the shoulders and balancing energy.

Lie back over a rolled blanket or bolster, with a small pillow under the head and the arms gently open wide.

Breathe smoothly into the chest and the heart space.

Seasonal nourishment

The body often benefits from lighter meals in the warmer months — cooling foods, seasonal fruits and vegetables, and an abundance of red and purple foods aligned with the Fire element.

Plenty of filtered water, perhaps with a dash of Celtic sea salt, keeps the system gently balanced through the heat.

Daily habits

Support the Fire element by spending time outdoors and grounding with bare feet on the earth, wearing bright colours, and communicating honestly.

Make time for joy. Learn to say no when needed. Don't become isolated.

And perhaps most importantly — have fun.

A seasonal intention

"I open to love, joy, connection and what makes me feel alive."

Summer reminds us that joy can be healing too.