Balance During Summer

By Jennifer Kelleher

I invite you to close your eyes, gather your mind’s attention onto your breath in your body, and take a series of intentional inhales and exhales. Stay with the breath and experience your system settling into a deeper state of calm. Feel yourself coming home.

Last week, I was a bit under the weather. As someone who loves to be active and push physical limits, yoga has taught me how important it is to listen to my body and balance activity with rest. I don’t catch a bug often, but when I do, I take it as a welcomed opportunity to clear my schedule and slow down.

There is a quote that says something like, “If you don’t pick a day to rest, your body will pick it for you.” Especially as the weather gets warmer and we are naturally drawn into more activity, it is important to balance the bustle and heat with meaningful rest to avoid burnout. Did you know that with every one degree rise in body temperature your heart has to beat an extra ten beats per minute?

As we transition into summer, I invite you to think about your intentions for the months ahead. How can you enjoy this extroverted season, while staying balanced and healthy? What are some of the things you visualize for your summer? Where do you want to be and how do you want to feel at the end of summer?

To me a new season is an exciting opportunity to check in and refresh my routine, taking into consideration any new future goals and priorities. After sketching out my weekly schedule, I then fill the extra pockets with self care that will keep me well-fed, well-exercised, and well-rested so that I can maintain my lifestyle.

Planning and scheduling ahead of time sets you up for success because it prepares your mind for what’s to come. Having a plan of what you are going to do makes the day less stressful and more enjoyable, and it also makes you more likely to carry through with your intentions. Smartly planning out your days will help you to stay balanced and healthy as you achieve and surpass your goals.

As you plan for your summer movement and relaxation, note that Ocean Bliss Yoga’s summer schedule begins on June 24 and includes early morning classes, late morning classes, and evening classes to accommodate a variety of schedules. For food, meal prepping is the best way to keep your diet in check no matter what circumstances arise. If your refrigerator is well-stocked with healthy, delicious, ready-to-grab options, you will be less likely to deviate from your plan. In terms of rest, a solid morning and evening routine can help you keep your sleep cycles regular. If you are someone who suffers from insomnia, there are many things you can do to help your body find its rhythm. Get curious, honestly look at your lifestyle and diet, and start experimenting with some changes! To inquire about nutritional guidance and health coaching, call or text me at 917-318-1168.

I look forward to seeing you all out and about, enjoying Rockaway this summer! As always, I invite you to join me and the Ocean Bliss Yoga community on the third floor of the Belle Harbor Yacht Club in our gorgeous, breezy studio space for yoga classes, Pilates classes, workshops, mini-retreats, and more. Check our schedule and sign up at oceanblissyoga.net.