Happy Summer! The summer solstice is a beautiful time to connect with the abundant energy of the sun, express gratitude, and celebrate the fullness of life. Here are some simple yogic practices to enjoy alone or with friends, or feel free to create your own Summer Solstice reset practices.
Adorn Yourself in Yellow or Gold
In yoga, color therapy is known to influence our mood and energy. Embrace the vibrant spirit of the solstice by wearing colors that reflect the sun’s radiance. Yellow and gold are perfect choices to uplift your spirit and align with the sun’s energy.
Sunlit Meditation
Find a quiet spot under the sun and allow its warmth to envelop you. Engage in a meditation practice, whether it’s seated meditation, mindful walking, or a special ritual. Focus on your senses: feel your feet on the grass, notice the scent of blooming flowers, and listen to the rustling leaves. Alternatively, try a fire gazing meditation to harness the transformative power of fire.
Fire Gazing Meditation
Light a candle and place it at eye level about 2-3 feet in front of you. Sit comfortably with a soft gaze fixed on the flame. Try not to blink for as long as possible. When you feel the need to blink, close your eyes and visualize the candle flame inwardly. This practice purifies the mind and awakens your inner fire and spiritual vision.
Joyful Activities
The summer solstice encourages you to embrace what brings you joy. What activities light up your spirit? Dance freely, walk barefoot on the grass, or engage in playful activities that bring you happiness. Step away from productivity and indulge in pure joy.
Acts of Giving
Giving is a beautiful way to honour the solstice. Share your love and gratitude by giving to your loved ones. This can be through gifts of food, drinks, or homemade treats. Offer compliments, express gratitude, or lend a helping hand to someone in need. Keep the flow of love and kindness alive.
Outdoor Gatherings
Summer solstice is an ideal time to connect with friends and family. Organize picnics, bonfires, or barbecues and enjoy the lush, vibrant outdoors. Turn off your phone, be present, and absorb the warm energy from nature and the company of others.
Bringing Nature Indoors
After spending time outdoors, bring a piece of nature into your home. Collect heart-shaped rocks, buy fresh flowers from the market, or gather leaves from your backyard. Creating a nature-inspired space in your home can refresh your environment and uplift your spirit.
Consider creating a personal altar as a sacred space within your home. Adorn it with offerings that hold personal and spiritual significance. These offerings express gratitude and honour the spirit of the solstice, creating a deeper connection with this special time of year.
Embrace these practices and let the energy of the summer solstice rejuvenate your body, mind, and spirit. Namaste.
And don’t forget to book in for our classes, in the studio or online with Leah, Greg & Ron! We’re looking forward to practicing with you this season!
Happy Summer from all of us at Studio Nine
By Leah Marie Serna, E-RYT 200, yoga practitioner, meditator, and co-owner / yoga instructor at Studio Nine. She teaches the Monday Move to Meditate classes (paused for the summer), the Tuesday and Thursday morning Foundations & noon Flow classes and Wednesday Yin & Kundalini classes. She also serves as the yoga studio manager.