Summertime R & R

Posted on June 30th, 2024

For those in the northern hemisphere, we are only ten days passed the longest day of the year and the shortest night. As we head into the peak of summer, there is great cause for celebration as the long days persist through the months of July and August. It is not surprising that around the globe, more positive energy correlates to longer days of sunlight. In much of Europe, midsummer is celebrated with bonfires, garlands to adorn homes and flowers are worn in the hair of girls and ladies. No matter where one may be, the long warm days of summer bring more time outdoors by day and by night. What better time for r & r than during the warm midsummer.

Besides the excitement that easily comes with long sunny days, summer is a time to bring balance to the short days of winter. In keeping with our natural rhythms and to cool the fiery hot energy of summer, one might make a point to rest and relax more, to bring more restorative activities into one’s day such as meditation or ‘yin’ yoga or to simply enjoy easy going gatherings with family and friends. The expansive nature of Fire energy naturally increases a propensity for connection, joy, love, compassion and encourages one to embrace life more fully.

The longer days of summer might create space for rejuvenation and supportive connection. I cannot over emphasize the importance of maintaining a counter balance to the productive lives many inevitably lead through every season. My favorite way to encourage a gentle cycle of renewal is through the practice of yin or or restorative yoga. The beauty of this gentle style of yoga is that it is easy to create a home practice. A seasoned yogi and student of Iyenger, Judith Lasater has a host of offerings, both in person and online as well as teaching yogis and aspiring yoginis through her beautifully illustrated book, Relax and Renew. If you are looking for a personal experience on the Big Island, I recommend taking advantage of the blessed opportunity to connect with a lovely group of yoginis who meet on Tuesday mornings and/or Friday evenings. A gracious goddess and yogi, Yvette Minear brings to life a lovely restorative experience in the heart of Kailua Village on the Big Island of Hawaii. If you are not in Kona, I encourage you to seek out classes in your area specializing in a supportive easy going gentle yoga practice to be the perfect counter balance to an active flow yoga practice or bringing harmony to the every day demands of our modern world.

Summer is the perfect season to restore. With no better time than now for r & r, may you make time everyday for YOU during these long summer days and nights. May peace and well being prevail for you in all of your endeavors.

Sources and Resources:

Sawe, Benjamin Elisha 2019 June 17 in Environment World Atlas: 10 Interesting Facts About Summer Solstice