Summer can be a busy time, with holidays, activities, and events filling up your diary. Try this 30-minute summer yoga routine, to stay healthy and grounded even when you’re short on time. Whether you’re an experienced yogi or a beginner, this routine is designed to maximise your time, whilst maintaining your practice.
Sun Salutations – 10 minutes
Start your routine with the classic Sun Salutation sequence. This sequence is a great way to warm up your body and get your blood flowing. Begin by standing at the front of your mat and reaching your arms up overhead. Exhale and fold forward, placing your hands on the mat. Step or jump your feet back into plank pose, then lower down into Chaturanga. Inhale and lift your chest into upward-facing dog, then exhale and press back into downward-facing dog. Repeat this sequence several times, flowing with your breath.
Warrior II – 4 minutes
Warrior II is a powerful pose that can help you build strength and stability in your legs, while also stretching your hips and shoulders. To come into Warrior II, start in Mountain pose, then step your left foot back, turning it out at a 90-degree angle. Bend your right knee and extend your arms out to the sides, coming into a T-shape. Gaze over your right fingertips and hold for several breaths. Repeat on the other side.
Tree Pose – 4 minutes
Tree pose is a fun and playful pose that can help you improve your balance and focus. Begin in Mountain pose, then shift your weight onto your left foot. Lift your right foot and place the sole of your foot on your inner left thigh. Press your foot into your thigh and lengthen your spine. Bring your hands to your heart center and hold for several breaths. Repeat on the other side.
Boat Pose – 4 minutes
Boat pose is a challenging pose that can help you build core strength and improve your posture. Begin by sitting on your mat with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Lean back slightly and lift your feet off the floor, straightening your legs. Extend your arms forward and hold for several breaths. To make this pose more challenging, straighten your arms overhead.
Camel Pose – 4 minutes
Camel pose is a backbend that can help you stretch your chest, shoulders, and hips, while also improving your posture and breathing. Begin on your knees with your hips stacked over your knees. Place your hands on your lower back and lift your chest, arching your spine. If you feel comfortable, reach back, and place your hands on your heels. Hold for several breaths, then slowly release.
Corpse Pose – 4 minutes
Finally, end your summer yoga routine with Corpse pose, a relaxing pose that can help you release tension and quiet your mind. Lie flat on your back with your arms at your sides and your palms facing up. Close your eyes and take several deep breaths, allowing your body to relax completely. Summer doesn’t have to be a season of stress and chaos. Take a moment to unplug, unwind, and recharge with my 30-minute summer yoga routine. This sequence will help you find your inner peace and strengthen the body. So, grab your mat, breathe deeply, and move!
Come along to the Yoga Foundations For Men, the first men’s only class in the UAE every Thursday 7pm at Matcha Paddle, Al quoz. 04 548 8364
