Cool Down Naturally: 6 Easy Yoga Poses to Beat the Summer Heat

Let’s face it—summer can be a lot. Between the blazing sun and the never-ending quest for the nearest AC, it’s easy to feel like a human popsicle that’s slowly melting. But what if I told you there’s a way to cool down that doesn’t involve cranking the thermostat or chugging ice water? Enter yoga.

Yep, you heard me right. Certain yoga poses are like your body’s natural air conditioning system. These moves don’t just help you beat the heat—they leave you feeling refreshed, energized, and ready to tackle even the stickiest of days. Ready to give it a try? Let’s dive in!

1. Sitali Pranayama (Cooling Breath)

Okay, we’re starting with a technique, not a pose, but trust me on this one. Sitali Breath is a quick chill pill for your whole body.

Here’s how you do it:

• Sit comfortably, whether that’s on the floor or a chair.
• Stick your tongue out (yes, really) and curl the sides upward like a little taco.
• Inhale deeply through your “tongue taco,” then close your mouth and exhale through your nose.

Feel that cool sensation? Repeat this for about 10 breaths, and you’ll notice a drop in your internal thermostat. Bonus: It’s weirdly satisfying.

2. Cat-Cow Stretch (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana)

This one’s a crowd favorite for a reason—it’s gentle, soothing, and great for releasing tension.

• Start on all fours with your wrists under your shoulders and knees under your hips.
• As you inhale, drop your belly, lift your chest, and tilt your tailbone up (that’s Cow).
• On the exhale, round your back, tuck your chin, and let your head hang (hello, Cat).

Flow through this for 8–10 breaths. It’s like giving your spine a much-needed stretch after hours of slumping in the heat.

3. Forward Fold (Uttanasana)

This one’s as simple as it gets, but wow, does it work? A forward fold helps release tension in your back and legs while calming your mind.

• Stand tall, then hinge at your hips and let your upper body hang forward.
• Bend your knees slightly if your hamstrings are feeling tight.
• Let your head hang heavy and take a few deep breaths.

Pro tip: Imagine all the heat and stress dripping out of you as you fold forward.

4. Wide-Legged Forward Bend (Prasarita Padottanasana)

Think of this as Forward Fold’s cooler cousin. It’s perfect for opening up your hips and getting that sweet cooling effect.

• Stand with your feet wide apart and toes pointing forward.
• Hinge at your hips and let your upper body fold down.
• Place your hands on the ground or a yoga block for support.

Stay here for a few breaths, and don’t forget to relax your shoulders. This pose is all about letting go.

5. Legs-Up-The-Wall (Viparita Karani)

Feeling drained after a long, sweaty day? This pose is your ticket to instant relief.

• Sit sideways next to a wall, then swing your legs up as you lie back.
• Adjust so your hips are as close to the wall as feels comfy.
• Rest your arms by your sides, close your eyes, and just… chill.

Stay here for 5–10 minutes, and let the blood flow away from your legs and back toward your heart. It’s like pressing the reset button on your whole body.

6. Corpse Pose (Savasana)

We’re ending with the ultimate cool-down move. Don’t let the name scare you—Savasana is all about finding total relaxation.

• Lie flat on your back with your arms at your sides and palms facing up.
• Close your eyes and take slow, deep breaths.
• Focus on letting every part of your body sink into the floor.

If you want to take it up a notch, place a cool towel over your eyes or spritz some refreshing facial mist before you settle in.

Final Thoughts

Yoga isn’t just about twisting into impossible shapes or mastering a handstand. Sometimes, it’s simply about finding ways to feel good—and staying cool when the temperature’s rising is part of that.

So, the next time the summer heat has you feeling like you’re about to combust, roll out your mat and try these poses. Who knows? They might just become your new summer survival strategy.

Now, your turn—what’s your favorite way to stay cool during summer? Share it below or tag me when you try these poses!