Summer is the gorgeous season of energy, growth, and vitality, meticulously influenced by Ayurveda. But when temperatures begin to soar and humidity clings to our bodies like a surprise hug, working out can quickly feel more draining and mundane rather than energizing. Luckily, rolling out a yoga mat indoors offers a calming and cool way to escape the heat while giving your body a chance to stretch and we have just the space for you!
Effects of Extreme Heat on the Body
Your body works overtime to stay cool, especially when temperatures get up to higher digits. Along with exhaustion, sweating causes you to lose water and electrolytes, making your heart pump faster to regulate body temperature. Even with something as gentle as yoga outdoors, dehydration can sneak up quickly, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke can include dizziness or lightheadedness, headache, nausea, muscle cramps, confusion, and a rapid heartbeat. It is important to rehydrate immediately and help your body to cool down in these circumstances.
Yoga still remains a popular practice in the summertime for those looking to focus on their breath and experience a gratifying stretch, and it’s still beneficial if you bring it indoors, we promise! According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, a review of 12 clinical studies, which involved 672 healthy and active adults, found that yoga reduced stress in every study reviewed. Now imagine letting your worries melt away without the risk of overheating! Thankfully, yogis can minimize that risk by joining us in our temperature-controlled studio!
Safely Practicing Yoga in the Heat
Practicing yoga indoors is a simple way to stay active, to give your body the balance it craves, and to keep your wellness routine flowing all summer long when it gets too hot. Whether you start your morning with smooth, gentle poses, take a break midday to recharge, or hit the mat after a busy day, regardless, it’s important to protect yourself from extreme temperatures.
As the temperatures begin to climb, sessions can become more physically demanding, or even dangerous, if you’re not prepared. Some individuals may also have medical conditions that are worsened with the heat. Fear not, yogi! You don’t have to skip practice altogether; by making a few smart adjustments, you can continue to stretch, breathe, and beat the heat!
While the temperature can impact your enjoyment of an outdoor yoga session, you can still safely enjoy the beautiful sunny days during at-home sessions. If you’re heading out of the studio and looking to stretch out outdoors, keep these tips in mind.
Tips for Practicing Summer Yoga Safely:
Hydrate Before You Begin
Drink water throughout the day and continue sipping before, during, and after your stretch session. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty or heavily sweating. Consider replenishing electrolytes as well; there are many flavored water packets that make them a tasty addition to your water bottle.
Consider the Time
Practicing during cooler hours is the safest way to exercise outdoors. Early morning hours are ideal as are evening times. Avoid practicing during the hottest part of the day, between noon and 3 p.m.
Find Some Shade
Selecting a shaded spot with plenty of space is perfect! Whether you’re in the backyard, on a covered patio, or at your favorite park, protection from the direct sunlight can make a difference during your session and prevent becoming overheated faster.
Dress Smart
Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing that is also moisture-wicking. It will allow your body to cool naturally and sweat less. Light colored fabrics also reflect sunlight more efficiently than darker colors which is an added bonus when you want to stay cool.
Most Importantly, Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to how you feel! One of yoga’s greatest lessons is mindfulness and you know your own limits. Summer isn’t the time to push for the most intense power flow, so consider gentle yoga, restorative yoga or vinyasa sequences that allow movement that is most comfortable. If you begin feeling overheated, rest and rehydrate.
Enjoy Summer Yoga with Us!
Yoga is designed to help you feel stronger, calmer and connected - not leave you exhausted because of the heat. Consistency matters far more than intensity and you can enjoy a session just as much in our amazing temperature-controlled studio!
If you do head out into nature, remember that staying hydrated and listening to your body will help you manifest the many benefits of yoga all summer long without putting your health at risk. Let’s celebrate this season of radiant energy, embrace movement, cultivate joy, and find your balance.
While it’s true the sunshine inspires adventure, let these hot days be a gracious reminder that wellness can still flourish indoors - where a calming yoga session will help you stay refreshed and beat the heat. Join us in the studio for chilled weekly classes! Visit www.rootsyogamindbody.com to view the class schedule and book more self-care, such as massage therapy or sound healing. Stay cool!
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