Happy Summer!!

But friendship is precious, not only in the shade, but in the sunshine of life. –Thomas Jefferson

Hi All,
We made it through May Madness and are full on into the light-filled, laid back vibe of June and Summer break. I know at our house it comes not a moment too soon. It was a great year but packed to the brim as always.

We look forward to a more casual schedule and some time away from our disciplined routines. We work hard and tend to play hard too.

With the tendency to ramp things up a bit in June, I thought a few words of wisdom might be in order before we all jump off the diving board!

The climate in June ayurvedically is classified as hot and damp. It can get so humid in early Summer in Atlanta that it can be a shock to some, especially if you work indoors. Resist over adjusting the air conditioner, our bodies do not like these drastic temperature differences between indoors and outdoors. Our thyroids need time to adjust and to do their job of regulating as naturally as possible.

Speaking of humidity, it is actually extremely beneficial for your body to sweat. Sweat is nature’s most natural detoxifier. Your skin is your largest eliminatory organ and sweating moves toxins from inside to outside. Get outside in the earlier part of the day or later after the Sun’s hottest rays have diminished some, but don’t fear the sweat. Nothing beats the post exercise serotonin glow that accompanies a good sweaty workout or yoga practice.

June is also called the height of the heart season. We know that with every 1 degree rise in body temperature, the heart beats 10 extra beats. The hot temps coupled with summer outdoor play can give you a rosy flush, a sure sign that your heart is working hard to keep you cool.

And cool is the operative word for June. June houses the longest days of the year culminating in the Summer Solstice on June 21st. With all this light we get enticed to stay out and up longer and longer. We are filled with feelings of excitement, playfulness, and invincibility. We want to be with others enjoying the lush beauty of full gardens and warm summer breezes.

We tend toward passion and impulsivity. Remember to keep your cool and pause before jumping in head over heels.

The trick to summer in HotLanta is to eat light and green, stay hydrated, seek shade, exercise in the early morning, and have some down time for just you. With all this fullness we can get irritable and run ourselves into complete exhaustion. Try not to get overly committed or over served in either food or drink. The body is working hard to deal with the higher temperatures and has a hard time digesting anything that you put in it.

Okay that’s all for now, stay tuned for some great smoothie recipes and green drinks to keep you hydrated and nourished without being overly full.

Stay cool, calm, and collected.

Yours in the Shade,
RuthAnn