Welcome Summer
The first sun rays of the day sneak under our blinds, energizing us in our final moments of rest before the sound of birds chirping in swaying trees guide us to the beginning of our days. Deep green leaves collide in the gentle wind, a cool relief from the heat of the day that was and the day that will be. As shadows shift and the grounds warm, the peaceful morning grows into a lively afternoon, which then makes way for a rejuvenating evening and restorative night. Finally, summer is upon us.
For many of us, summer represents simplicity: a break from routine and an invitation for fun. Perhaps it isn’t a lighter workload that offers a change to your days, but rather the welcomed hours of sunlight warming the sidewalks and lengthening your days. Enjoying summer weather is essential to our health, both mental and physical. In fact, sunlight alone can introduce a variety of vitamins into our bodies, improve our bone health, lower our blood pressure and stimulate our happiness hormone (serotonin). There is even evidence that suggests sunlight can boost our cognitive functioning and increase our longevity.
Beyond the mere exposure to sunlight, the long days offer us the opportunity to move our bodies, explore the great outdoors and surround ourselves with each other and with the host of cultures that fill our communities.
If you’re able to, consider walking to your next yoga class and notice the people around you: the footsteps on the streets and the laughter in the air. Notice the elements around you: the freshness of the leaves and the lightness of the breeze. Notice the benefits within you: the ease of your strides and the tranquility in your spirit.
If you’re up for it, carve out the time to explore nature and all it has to offer, perhaps by hiking or taking a trip to the beach. Through whatever means are most relevant to you, give yourself the chance to slow down and observe life as it moves from the confinement of buildings to the freedom of the streets beneath them, giving appreciation to the earth that supports us and the season that brings us together.
