Summer, oh summer. I have a love-hate relationship this time of year. I crave the freedom to play, to explore, change up my routine and get outside a lot more. But, I often find myself face to face with struggle during this season.

In the summer in particular I get closely acquainted with desire, craving and my ironic resistance to let myself rest.

Can you relate? It is often what we crave, but in our society we do not really give ourselves as much permission as we need to C H I L L  out and recharge deeply. We view it as a luxury. But it is so vital to our health and happiness.

 

As a fiery person (and a pitta dosha this time of year in Ayurveda, yoga’s sister science) by nature I crave excitement, activity and social gatherings. But I can easily overdo it and wind up feeling depleted. Also I am a bit of an overachiever by nature -- the list goes on. These tendencies have forced me more than once to stop, breathe and rest.

These are some of the many reasons why I was drawn to the yoga practice (restorative yoga, slow flows and meditation in particular) --- the ancient practices feed me from the inside out.

Here are 3 tips to keep yourself nourished, rested and bring a bit more joy into your life this summer!
 

1. Move your body in a way that feels good daily. Even if that means taking one childs pose, legs up the wall after traveling, or downward facing dog. A nice (even 5 minute) walk on the sand or in nature always nourishes more than you realize.
    

2. Feed yourself well. As a fiery person I enjoy a soothing cup of tea in the morning when I wake up as I am getting ready --- Numi’s Tumeric Tonic is one of my favorites. Also mid-afternoon I love a nice homemade glass of bubbly kombucha or an ice green tea with a bit of honey is lovely!.
    

3. Pay attention to your resistance to relax and take time off. I encourage daily “mini vacations” even if you are busy as heck --- especially if you feel you have no time. Take three breaths in and out before you eat your meals, and as you come home from work or stop your work for the day create ritual. I like to light a candle at home, and listen to John Coltrane when I am cooking dinner.
    

Good luck out there, and enjoy these dog days of summer!