When it feels like the summer temperatures skyrocket overnight, we seek ways to stay cool. From running barefoot to grab the mail and feeling like our feet might burn off to craving ice cubes in our water and a refreshing dip in a cold pool, we naturally search for relief from the relentless heat of summer.

Implement the Cooling Breath

As the temperatures rise, it’s time to incorporate a cooling element into your movement practice. Yoga offers a simple and effective technique called the "Cooling Breath," or "Sheetali Pranayama," that can help you beat the summer heat while bringing a sense of calmness to your body and mind. While this practice is beneficial for many, Sheetali Pranayama is contraindicated for those with low blood pressure and respiratory disorders like bronchitis. 

Benefits of this Breath

The Cooling Breath doesn’t just clear excess heat from your body and calm your mind. There are many benefits to this breathing practice including reducing blood pressure and inflammation throughout the body as well as overall benefits for the nervous system and endocrine glands.

And the best thing is, the Cooling Breath is incredibly easy to do!

How to Practice the Cooling Breath

Follow these simple steps to cool down, find your calm, and beat the heat:

1. Find a comfortable seated position on a chair or on the floor with your spine tall and rest the hands on the knees.

2. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to settle yourself.

3. Curl your tongue lengthwise, creating a tube-like shape. If you can't curl your tongue, no worries! Simply part your lips slightly, like a gentle smile.

4. Inhale slowly and deeply through your curled tongue or parted lips, feeling the coolness of the air entering your mouth.

5. Close your mouth and exhale completely through your nose.

6. Repeat this cycle of inhalation through your mouth and exhalation through your nose 5-10 times or as long as it feels comfortable for you.

My Favorite Tips for the Cooling Breath

As you practice the Cooling Breath, I find it works wonders to visualize the cool air energizing and refreshing my entire body, making its way from my toes all the way up my body and out the crown of my head. Notice how the breath helps calm your mind and create a peaceful state within.

I highly encourage you to incorporate the Cooling Breath into your movement, whether it's during a yoga or Pilates session or simply as a standalone practice to cool down! It's a wonderful way to find a moment of cool tranquility amidst the sweltering summer.

The Cooling Breath isn’t the only way to chill out this summer! There are a couple spots left for my women’s retreat, Rooted in Nature, happening August 25-27 in the Catskills! 

This retreat is going to be amazing—with movement sessions, delicious food, and being surrounded by nature all weekend, what more could you ask for?! Click here if you want to learn more or to sign up today.

Cheers to staying cool,

Lia