Its great to be back in the summer sunshine, and in the company of friends and family we might not have been able to see in the colder months. But with an endless agenda of family gatherings, summer camp meetings, social outings, time on the roads and travel, it's easy to become overwhelmed and lose sight of our own needs and self-care in the summertime.
This is when finding balance becomes essential to maintain a sense of peace, relaxation and well-being. Taking the time to pause and reconnect with oneself is crucial. Whether it's through mindful practices like meditation, yoga, or simply unplugging from technology and immersing in nature, these moments of solitude can provide a much-needed respite. Prioritizing self-care and setting boundaries is key to managing the hectic pace of summer, allowing us to fully enjoy the vibrant energy of the season while nurturing our physical and mental well-being. Finding balance amidst the busyness is a gentle reminder to create moments of tranquility and restore equilibrium within ourselves.
We’ve curated a list of our very own go-to practices in the summer to find that all important balance….
Deep Breathing
Deep breathing techniques such as the Wim Hof Method and Pranayama offer profound benefits for the mind, body, and spirit. These practices involve intentional, controlled breathing patterns that can calm the nervous system, increase energy levels, and enhance mental clarity. The Wim Hof Method, popularised by the "Iceman" himself, emphasises a combination of deep breathing, cold exposure, and meditation to tap into the body's innate abilities.
On the other hand, Pranayama, a yogic breathing practice, focuses on regulating the breath to balance the life force energy, or prana, within us. Both techniques encourage conscious breathing, enabling us to activate the parasympathetic nervous system and reduce stress. By incorporating deep breathing techniques like Wim Hof and Pranayama into our daily routine, we can experience improved focus, relaxation, and a greater sense of overall well-being.
Here are a couple of videos for you to explore these techniques in your own time
Aromatherapy & Fragrance
Aromatherapy has long been recognized as a powerful tool for promoting relaxation and emotional well-being. And with all this extra time in the company of friends or out in large crowds we decided to focus on aromatherapy to help ease social anxiety, the calming and grounding scents of cedar wood and sandalwood can offer significant support. Cedar wood is known for its warm and comforting aroma, which can help alleviate anxiety and nervousness. It promotes a sense of security and stability, creating an environment conducive to social interactions.
Sandalwood, with its soothing and woody fragrance, is renowned for its ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress. It can help calm the mind, enhance focus, and instill a sense of inner peace, allowing individuals to navigate social situations with greater ease. Incorporating these scents into aromatherapy practices, such as burning (fire fragranced or earth fragranced candles) them in your home before you head out or blending the essential oil versions with carrier oils like coconut oil for topical application, can provide a natural and gentle approach to managing social anxiety, fostering confidence and well-being.
Hydration with a boost
In the hot summer months, rehydrating the body becomes crucial to combat the heat and maintain optimal health. A refreshing and effective way to replenish electrolytes and quench thirst is by using a simple combination of lemon and salt. Lemons are rich in vitamin C and provide a burst of tangy flavour. When mixed with water, they create a revitalising beverage that aids in hydration and promotes detoxification.
Adding a pinch of salt to the lemon water helps restore the body's electrolyte balance, replenishing essential minerals lost through sweat. The combination of lemon and salt creates a flavourful and rejuvenating drink that not only rehydrates the body but also provides a natural source of hydration during hot summer days. So, squeeze some lemon, sprinkle a pinch of salt, and enjoy this invigorating beverage to keep yourself hydrated and refreshed all summer long.
Sleep rituals
Sleep meditation is a practice that combines relaxation techniques and mindfulness to promote deep, restful sleep. It involves guiding the mind into a state of tranquility while preparing the body for rest. To use sleep meditation, find a quiet and comfortable space, dim the lights, and lie down in a relaxed position. Start by focusing on your breath, allowing it to slow down naturally.
Then, progressively relax each part of your body, releasing tension and inviting a sense of calm. As thoughts arise, gently acknowledge them without judgment and let them go, redirecting your attention to your breath or a soothing visualisation. The benefits of sleep meditation are numerous. It helps quiet a busy mind, reduces anxiety and stress, and promotes better sleep quality. By incorporating sleep meditation into your bedtime routine, you can create a peaceful and conducive environment for a restorative night's sleep, waking up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Example link to sleep meditation we like to use
Deep rest
Yoga Nidra, also known as yogic sleep, is a deep relaxation practice that combines elements of meditation and guided imagery to induce a state of profound rest and rejuvenation. To use Yoga Nidra, lie down in a comfortable position, close your eyes, and follow the instructions of a guided meditation. The practice typically involves systematically scanning and relaxing different parts of the body while maintaining awareness of breath and sensations. The benefits of Yoga Nidra are extensive.
It promotes deep relaxation, reduces stress, improves sleep quality, and helps manage anxiety and depression. Regular practice of Yoga Nidra can enhance self-awareness, increase mental clarity, and foster a greater sense of inner peace and well-being. It offers a sanctuary of tranquility amidst the busyness of life, allowing you to tap into your innate capacity for healing and restoration. It is said that even 30 mins of yoga nidra is the equivalent to a 5 hour sleep. If you're looking for a moment of respite and an overall boost in energy. Experiment with a regular yoga nidra practice.
Here is a sample of a yoga nidra guided meditation that we refer to often
Taking the time to care for yourself is not only a personal necessity but also a gift to others. In the midst of our busy lives, it is easy to neglect our own well-being while tending to the needs of others. However, prioritising self-care is crucial for maintaining physical, mental, and emotional health. When we make time to nurture ourselves, we recharge our energy, reduce stress, and cultivate a positive mindset.
This, in turn, allows us to show up fully for our loved ones, colleagues, and communities. By taking care of ourselves, we become better equipped to offer support, empathy, and kindness to others. It creates a ripple effect of well-being and serves as a reminder that self-care is not selfish but rather a foundation for being present and compassionate in our relationships and interactions.
So, let us remember the importance of carving out time for self-care, as it not only benefits us but also enhances our ability to make a positive impact on those around us.