Summer Lovin'

We live in a sunburnt country, and here in Australia right now don't we know it! With the soaring Queensland humidity, and our ocean drawing us closer, its finally time to step out and enjoy this fabulous time of year for sunrise surfing, daytime swimming, and sunset gazing with the ones we love.

However Summer is not only about island living and outdoor experience (although a major perk of living in Australia), but on the yogic calendar, it is a time of celebration as we arrive at Summer Solstice, the peak of light (depending on hemisphere tilt), and our longest day of year. Here in the Southern Hemisphere we've almost arrived, 21st December. So what are the best tips for summer time? And why do we practice them? Let's explore below:

• Summer solstice is for attuning to the essence of the sun, harnessing solar energy for personal growth, to embody the light of hope, and experience the joy of community.

• Many practice mindful eating and a focused ayurvedic diet at this time.

• Taking part in energising yoga and meditation for clarity and focus allows an increased strength of body and mind.

• Summer solstice allows us to recognise the full experience of Yang as well as the element of fire.

• Inviting vitality throughout the day and a restorative sleep at night can aide balanced energy.

• Staying hydrated with water as well as enjoying summer fruit such as watermelon supports inner health.

• Being aware that heat can exhaust us, fire overwhelm us, and that mindful practices, diet, as well as self-care can truly support our overall health and wellbeing is essential wisdom for summertime.

Bonus Meditation:

Find yourself in a restful position, breathing naturally and consciously, contemplating on words from the Radiance Sutras (Lorin Roche) "the air I am breathing was exhaled in ecstasy by an ancient sun; the Earth I'm standing on was born of cosmic fire." Repeat several times as you breathe. How do you feel?

For those who would love to come a little deeper for the Summer Solstice, check out the upcoming in person Kundalini Yoga workshop (14th December) as well as online Vinyasa workshop (21st December). Go to the 'workshops' and 'memberships' tabs via https://www.thesunshinechannel.com.au to join.

In love and health, Nicole x

Nicole Edwards is a Mental Health Therapist, Mentor, Yoga, Meditation, and Sound Teacher from the Gold Coast region of Australia. Contact TheSunshineChannel@outlook.com to connect or book a 1:1 session, class, program, or workshop, at https://thesunshinechannel.com.au today.