5 easy yoga poses to keep you cool, calm and balanced in summer

1. Palm tree pose

This pose helps to build focus and requires concentration. It also encourages grounding by shifting your weight to one leg, which can help to shift your attention away from the heat. Grounding can also help create a sense of calm and stability.

To practise this pose, stand on one leg and stretch the other leg out to the side, just like a palm tree.

Palm tree pose can help you to focus and feel calm. Photo: Doris Wai

2. Swaying palm tree pose

Once you feel comfortable doing the palm tree pose, you can add this extension: gently sway from side to side, while imagining a cool breeze brushing against your skin.

The swaying motion encourages deep, steady breathing as you need to balance yourself while rocking. This also helps to regulate your body temperature and calm the nervous system.

Swaying palm tree pose is all about deep, steady breathing. Photo: Doris Wai

3. Butterfly pose

You might engage in more physical activities and sports over the summer, and this can put extra strain on your hips. The butterfly pose opens the hips and releases pressure in this area.

Start by sitting on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Bend your knees and bring your feet together. Gently hold onto your feet with your hands and slowly bring your chest close to your feet.

This pose also encourages the body’s muscles to relax, which can help you feel calmer and less bothered by the heat.

Butterfly pose is great for relaxing your muscles. Photo: Doris Wai

4. Refreshing pool pose

Body temperature increases during hot weather, and this can cause dehydration if you do not drink enough water. This puts extra strain on your muscles and can even cause muscle cramps.

The refreshing pool pose is a great way to help the body cool down and relax your muscles.

This pose can also be done at the end of any exercise – simply lay down on your belly with your arms stretched out in front or behind, and imagine you are dipping your toes into a cool, refreshing pool of water.

Keep your head up! Photo: Doris Wai

5. Flame gazing technique

During hot weather, the tear film – which keeps the eyes moist and protected – dries up more quickly. This can lead to irritation. Being under a fan or air conditioning can also cause dry eyes and discomfort.

A good way to get your eyes to “unwind” is to focus on a single point. This helps your eyes to relax and produce tears that help cool them down. According to War War, some yoga teachers use a candle for this, but it should only be done under the guidance of an experienced teacher.

For those who want to try the flame gazing technique at home, place an LED candle at eye level about an arm’s length away. Find a comfortable position to sit in, and gaze at the flickering LED candle for a few minutes. Then, close your eyes and try to picture the “flame” in your mind.

Use an LED candle if you’re trying this at home. Photo: Doris Wai