Based on the “Yoga Sutras of Patañjali“. Patañjali was basically the original “mind coach” of yoga. His Yoga Sutras are short little wisdom lines that help us understand our thoughts, handle stress better, and feel more grounded — on and off the mat.
July — “Breathe Into Freedom”
July invites us into the warmth of summer. Long, light-filled days encourage us to make the most of every moment, but all that sunshine and activity can leave us feeling surprisingly depleted. One day we’re full of energy, the next we’re craving a little more rest and shade.
This month is a reminder that yoga isn’t about doing more—it’s about finding balance. Moving enough to feel energised, while creating space to cool, slow down and replenish.
The breath is one of the few things we can consciously change, and when we change our breath, we often change our experience. A slower, steadier breath is more cooling for the body, it sends a message to the mind to settle, for the shoulders to soften, to remind you to find a little more space within you and around you.
The earth is in full bloom right now, but even in all that energy, nature knows when to pause.
So should you.
This July, breathe deeply and slowly, soak up the warmth, and allow yourself to enjoy the season without feeling you have to squeeze every drop from it.
Rest before exhaustion arrives.
May your July be filled with steady breath, gentle movement, and moments that remind you just how good it feels to simply be.
“Freedom is available in every moment. The question is whether you choose to be there.” — Thích Nhất Hạnh
Enjoy a Quote:
“Live in each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit, and resign yourself to the influence of the earth.”
— Henry David Thoreau
Practice:
Use cooling breathwork techniques:
- Extended exhale breathing: Inhale for 4, exhale for 8.
- Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing): Calms your nervous system and cools the mind.
Memorize a mini poem:
He who binds himself a joy
Does the winged life destroy;
But he who kisses the joy as it flies
Lives in eternity’s sunrise.
William Blake (1757–1827
Repeat an Affirmation:
This breath is enough.
This moment is enough.
I am enough.