How to Stay Cool During Summer Yoga Sessions

Jun 30

Summer in Brooklyn means rooftop gatherings, outdoor markets, and plenty of sunshine. But when the temperatures soar, staying cool during yoga—especially in a heated studio or outdoor class—can be a challenge. Whether you're practicing indoors or flowing under the sun, here are some expert tips to keep your body refreshed and your energy balanced.

1. Choose the Right Class for the Heat

During the hottest months, you might want to adjust your yoga routine to avoid overheating. While hot yoga is still a great option for those who love a deep detox, consider mixing in Yin yoga, or slow Vinyasa flows to prevent excessive strain on the body.

If you love outdoor yoga, early morning or evening classes are ideal times to practice when the sun isn’t as intense.

2. Hydrate Before, During, and After Class

Proper hydration is key to maintaining energy and preventing heat exhaustion. Follow these hydration tips:

Drink plenty of water throughout the day, not just before class.
Add electrolytes to your water, especially if you’re sweating a lot.
Snack on water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges before class.
Sip coconut water post-yoga for natural hydration and replenishment.

3. Wear Breathable, Sweat-Wicking Clothing

Ditch the heavy fabrics and opt for light, breathable materials like moisture-wicking leggings and tank tops. Loose-fitting clothing can also allow better airflow, keeping you cooler during your session.

If you’re practicing outdoors, wearing a wide-brim hat or UV-protective clothing can help shield you from the sun.

4. Modify Your Practice with Cooling Poses

Some yoga poses naturally generate heat, while others have a cooling effect on the body. Incorporate these refreshing postures into your summer routine:

Seated Forward Fold (Paschimottanasana): Helps calm the nervous system.
Supine Twists: Release tension and slow down your heart rate.
Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani): Encourages circulation and deep relaxation.
Reclining Butterfly Pose (Supta Baddha Konasana): A gentle, cooling stretch.

At our studio, we offer cooling Yin yoga classes that focus on deep relaxation and mindful stretching—perfect for balancing out the summer heat.

5. Practice Cooling Breathwork

Pranayama (breathing techniques) can naturally lower your body temperature. Try Sitali Breath, a cooling technique where you inhale through a curled tongue or pursed lips and exhale slowly through your nose. This can be a game-changer after a sweaty session or on an especially hot day.

We often integrate this breathwork into our Vinyasa and Yin classes, helping you feel refreshed from the inside out.

6. Find Shade and Keep Air Flowing

If you're practicing outside, choose a shady spot like Prospect Park’s tree-covered areas to keep your body from overheating. For indoor yoga, position yourself near a fan or an open window to improve air circulation.

Our studio is designed with comfort in mind, offering temperature-controlled rooms that help you stay cool while still getting the benefits of an energizing practice.

Stay Cool and Keep Moving

Yoga and summer go hand in hand, but it’s important to listen to your body and make small adjustments to prevent overheating. With the right hydration, breathable clothing, cooling poses, and mindful breathwork, you can maintain a steady practice while keeping cool all season long.

Join us for a refreshing summer yoga class at our Brooklyn studio and stay balanced no matter how hot it gets!