Restorative Yoga for a hot day

Slowing down is necessary...

Homeostasis is hard work. On a hot day the body's neuroendocrine systems are busy working behind the scenes to regulate core body temperature, water loss and electrolyte balance.

You may feel sluggish or foggy even if you haven't exerted yourself. This is a natural response to heat, especially if we are not acclimatised. Restorative yoga can help to restore your energy levels and help your body cope with high temperatures.

To reduce the health impacts of heat, we all know that it helps to drink plenty of water, stay out of the sun, avoid alcohol and excess caffeine, and minimise strenuous exercise. Let's add an extra (and enjoyable) element to that list... taking some time out for restorative yoga.

Carve out 5 minutes, find a cool space, and try the following ever-so-simple restorative posture. This is a modified Viparīta Karaṇī (legs up the wall pose). I find this easy version is appealing, accessible and do-able at any time of day. All you need is a chair, sofa or bed to rest your legs on. You probably won't need a blanket (!) but of course do feel free to use an eye pillow, something soft underneath your head, rest your hips on a cushion, or incorporate any other props that work for you.

You may be surprised by how good it feels.... revitalising, cooling, and great for lymphatic and venous drainage in the lower limbs (helping to relieve tired achey sensations and puffy ankles). We are aiming for comfort and rest here, so less is more. Stay as long as you are comfortable here then gently stretch and return to your day. If this posture doesn't feel right for your body just bring the legs back down to earth and rest in a simple śavāsana.

Knees, calves, ankles and feet fully supported. Torso resting, grounded. Allow the shoulder blades to fully settle, head heavy, eyes closed or gaze soft. Stay for a while, sense the air around your armpits and throat, take a moment to wonder at the amazing ability of the skin to perspire. If your mind skips away just come back to the breath - sense cool air at your nostrils, follow the waves of your breath washing in, washing away.