Beating the Heat: Preparing for Charleston Summer Outdoor Yoga Classes with Serenity Tree Yoga
Summer is here and with it comes more opportunities to practice outside with us in Charleston’s beautiful surroundings. At Serenity Tree Yoga, we understand that practicing yoga outdoors during the summer can be both exhilarating and challenging due to the heat. While we often enjoy a refreshing breeze during our sessions, there are several other ways to ensure you stay cool, comfortable, and safe. Here are our top tips for preparing for the summer heat:
1. Hydration is Key!
Hydration is key when it comes to outdoor activities in the heat. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your yoga class. Start hydrating well before you leave the house. Bring a large water bottle with you and take small sips throughout the session to keep your hydration levels up. Always bring more water than you think you'll need. It's better to have extra than to run out, especially in the summer heat.
Bonus Tips -
I always keep Cucumber water in the fridge during the summer.
GOODONYA Organic Electrolyte Powder: I LOVE this stuff! If I know it’s going to be a hot day I drink this before class. It is kind of pricy, but it’s organic and made with coconut water powder, Himalayan pink salt, and stevia. Tastes like lemonade :)
2. Choose Your Clothes Wisely
Light clothing is essential for staying cool. Avoid black yoga pants or mats, as dark colors absorb heat. Opt for light-colored, breathable fabrics.
Bonus Tip -
Wear your bathing suit under your clothes so you can jump in the ocean after. I’ve also jumped in with my yoga clothes on. They will survive :) Trust me, a dip in the ocean after a yoga class feels amazing!
*Please, if you plan to jump in the ocean, be mindful of your sunscreen. As a general rule for your overall wellness, I recommend using mineral or organic sunscreens. If you plan to be in the water, please make sure your sunscreen is reef/ocean-friendly.
3. Snack on Fruit
Eating water-rich fruits like watermelon, cucumber, or oranges before your class can help keep you hydrated and provide a quick energy boost. These fruits are not only refreshing but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
Bonus Tips -
Bring some fruit out to the beach with you. Feel free to snack during class if you need a pick me up. I love to bring cuties out to the beach. You can just throw them in your beach bag. Easy breezy :)
4. Bring Small Ice Packs
Consider bringing a little cooler with small ice packs. These can be a lifesaver in cooling you down quickly. Place them on your wrists, neck, or any pulse points for an instant refresh. I sometimes put them in my sports bra ;)
Bonus Tips -
I often use these. Admittedly they do not stay cold very long so I recommend bringing a few.
Here is another option I use. You can cut this sheet into smaller parts and bring out to the beach with you.
I also think Cooling Towels are a great option.
5. Invest in a Neck Fan
Portable neck fans are a great investment for staying cool during outdoor activities. They may be a little tricky in down dog, but they would serve as a quick cool down when needed.
Bonus Tip -
Here is the fan I ordered for myself. I think it works great! I will do my best to have it and ice packs with me at every class so please let me know if you need them.
6. Plan for Post-Yoga Cool Down
After class, it's important to cool down properly. Jumping into the ocean for a swim can be an amazing way to lower your body temperature and relax your muscles.
Bonus Tip -
The sound of the waves, the feel of the saltwater, and the vast expanse of the sea can have profound effects on our mental and physical well-being. Swimming in the ocean can help reduce stress, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. The minerals in seawater, such as magnesium, potassium, and iodine, can nourish your skin and help heal minor wounds and irritations. So, after your yoga session, take a moment to immerse yourself in the ocean's healing power. Let the waves wash away any lingering tension and leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Folly Beach Bonus ~ If we are on 6th West on Folly Beach, stop at the outdoor shower and rinse off. Even just wetting your hair or your tank can help.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your summer yoga practice with Serenity Tree Yoga, staying cool, comfortable, and hydrated. Remember to listen to your body and take breaks as needed. We look forward to seeing you at our outdoor classes, enjoying our connection to nature and the peace it brings.
Wishing you all a beautiful year filled with love, joy, and moments of peace both on and off the mat.
We also kindly ask that if you plan to jump in the water after class, please use reef-friendly sunscreen such as Native Sunscreen, Hello Bello, MyCHELLE Dermaceuticals Solar Defense and Thinksport. These are just a few of our favorites, there are many other great options available.
Serenity Tree Yoga welcomes all levels and ages, and we LOVE yoga newbies. We offer Beach Yoga classes all around the Charleston area as well as Bachelorette, Wedding, Birthdays, Small Groups and private classes catered to your specific needs. Please continue to follow and interact with us on Social Media, otherwise, we disappear from your feed. There we will post any Pop Up classes and any FB lives I plan. You can also sign up for our Beach Yoga and Events Newsletter here.
