Summer is here! That means longer days, brighter sunshine, vacations, and for some of us—a lot of sweating. While summer brings a fun, easygoing vibe, it can also be a bit much. Ever tried doing a hot yoga class in July? Yeah, no thanks.
But here’s the good news: You don’t have to ditch your yoga practice just because it’s boiling outside. In fact, yoga can help you feel cooler, stay grounded, and enjoy the season even more. This blog is all about the best yoga poses for summer—think cooling, calming, and refreshing. We’ll also toss in some fun tips and a sprinkle of yoga humor, because sweating in silence just isn’t our style.
Get your mat, grab a cool drink, and let’s flow into a summer that feels good from the inside out.
Why Do Summer Yoga at All?
Before we jump into the poses, let’s answer a question that may be lingering like a mosquito at a picnic: Why do yoga in summer at all?
- Reduces body heat: Certain yoga poses help cool your system and reduce internal heat.
- Boosts energy: Light yoga can refresh you when the sun drains your energy.
- Improves mood: Sunshine is great, but yoga adds that extra mood boost (without the sunburn).
- Encourages hydration and mindfulness: Summer yoga makes you more aware of your body’s needs, like water, rest, and movement.
Okay, now that we’re all in agreement that yoga and summer can totally be BFFs, let’s get into the poses.
Top 15 Summer Yoga Poses to Try This Season
These yoga poses are handpicked for their cooling, calming, and easygoing nature. Whether you’re by the beach, in your backyard, or hiding in front of a fan, these poses are here to help you chill—literally.
1. Sitali Pranayama (Cooling Breath)
Okay, technically not a pose, but this breathing technique is pure magic for hot days.
How to do it:
- Sit comfortably.
- Roll your tongue like a taco (or pretend to, if you can’t).
- Inhale through the tongue tube.
- Close your mouth and exhale through the nose.
Why it’s cool:
- Lowers body temperature
- Refreshes your mind
- Feels like sipping air through a straw of calmness
2. Child’s Pose (Balasana)
Simple, soothing, and feels like a mini nap.
How to do it:
- Kneel and sit back on your heels.
- Fold forward, arms stretched or tucked.
- Breathe deeply.
Why it’s cool:
- Calms the nervous system
- Releases back tension
- A great “pause” when you’re feeling overheated
3. Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana)
Stretch your spine while creating a gentle internal breeze.
How to do it:
- On hands and knees, inhale and arch your back (cow).
- Exhale and round it (cat).
- Move with your breath.
Why it’s cool:
- Helps release tension
- Brings awareness to your breath
- Feels nice without being too intense
4. Seated Forward Fold (Paschimottanasana)
A gentle forward bend helps turn your focus inward.
How to do it:
- Sit with legs out.
- Reach forward with a long spine.
- Let your head relax.
Why it’s cool:
- Encourages introspection
- Calms the mind
- Stretches your body in a chill way
5. Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani)
Literal feet up, stress down.
How to do it:
- Lie on your back.
- Scoot your bum to the wall.
- Send legs up, relax arms.
Why it’s cool:
- Reduces swelling from summer heat
- Calms the heart rate
- You can do it in bed. Enough said.
6. Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)
A gentle backbend that energizes and opens.
How to do it:
- Lie on your back, knees bent.
- Lift hips as you press feet down.
- Roll shoulders under.
Why it’s cool:
- Stimulates thyroid (hello, energy!)
- Opens the chest
- Feels amazing after sitting in the heat
7. Supine Twist (Supta Matsyendrasana)
Twisting out stress and heat.
How to do it:
- Lie on your back.
- Hug one knee in.
- Let it fall to the side.
Why it’s cool:
- Massages your organs
- Releases spine and back
- Soothing for the nervous system
8. Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana)
Stretch your front body and feel more awake.
How to do it:
- Lie on your belly.
- Hands near shoulders, lift chest.
- Keep elbows slightly bent.
Why it’s cool:
- Opens the lungs
- Encourages full breathing
- Energizing without being sweaty
9. Reclining Bound Angle Pose (Supta Baddha Konasana)
The ultimate lounging yoga pose.
How to do it:
- Lie down.
- Soles of feet together, knees apart.
- Arms relaxed, maybe add a pillow.
Why it’s cool:
- Opens hips gently
- Super relaxing
- Perfect for cooling down
10. Tree Pose (Vrksasana)
Balance with a breeze.
How to do it:
- Stand tall.
- Place one foot on your ankle, calf, or thigh (not the knee).
- Hands at heart or overhead.
Why it’s cool:
- Builds focus
- Keeps energy light
- You get to pretend you’re a shady tree
11. Happy Baby (Ananda Balasana)
A playful way to open up.
How to do it:
- Lie on your back.
- Grab your feet, knees bent.
- Rock gently.
Why it’s cool:
- Opens hips
- Relieves tension in the back
- Feels silly (in a good way)
12. Butterfly Pose (Baddha Konasana)
Stretch those inner thighs and let go.
How to do it:
- Sit tall.
- Soles of feet together.
- Let knees fall open.
Why it’s cool:
- Great for warm, tight hips
- Easy to breathe in this position
- Very relaxing
13. Ocean Breath (Ujjayi Pranayama)
Feel like you’re at the beach, minus the sand in your shorts.
How to do it:
- Slightly constrict your throat as you breathe.
- Inhale and exhale slowly.
- You should hear a gentle ocean-like sound.
Why it’s cool:
- Calms the mind
- Helps you focus
- Makes your yoga practice feel smoother
14. Corpse Pose (Savasana)
Because every practice deserves a peaceful ending.
How to do it:
- Lie down flat.
- Let your arms and legs fall open.
- Close your eyes and just be.
Why it’s cool:
- Deep rest
- Body cools and resets
- The perfect excuse to do nothing
15. Walking Meditation or Outdoor Yoga
Because summer is too beautiful to ignore.
How to do it:
- Walk slowly, barefoot if possible.
- Breathe with each step.
- Or do your favorite pose outside!
Why it’s cool:
- Connects you to nature
- Boosts happiness
- You might even get a tan (bonus!)
Tips to Make Summer Yoga More Enjoyable
- Practice in the morning or evening when it’s cooler.
- Stay hydrated. Keep water nearby and drink often.
- Use a fan or cool towel during practice.
- Wear light, breathable clothes.
- Practice in the shade or indoors if it’s too hot.
- Take it slow. No need to push. Summer yoga is about ease.
Closing Thoughts: Let Yoga Be Your Summer Chill Pill
You don’t need to twist yourself into a pretzel or sweat buckets to enjoy yoga in summer. With the right poses and the right mindset, your mat can be a cool, calm space—even when the world outside is sizzling.
So take it easy, breathe deep, and remember: yoga is about balance, not burnout. Let these poses help you relax, recharge, and maybe even enjoy the summer just a little bit more.
Namaste, and pass the iced tea!

Theo is a dedicated yoga instructor with over six years of experience guiding individuals toward balance, strength, and inner peace through the transformative practice of yoga.As the founder of Pure Yoga Vibes, Theo offers expert insights, inspiring routines, and a wealth of knowledge to support your wellness journey. Committed to fostering a space for growth and mindfulness, Theo’s mission is to make yoga accessible, enjoyable, and meaningful for everyone.
For inquiries or collaborations, feel free to reach out at contact@pureyogavibes.com.