Since we, at Second You, are big fans of yoga, today we want to encourage you to consider starting the practice of this very activity. In this article, I will share with you some tips on how to add some yoga to your spring and summer routine to get energized and stay active for months to come.

The benefits of practicing yoga

Practicing yoga is a great way to keep fit. Yoga helps to strengthen muscles, improves body flexibility and balance, which is also great for all other forms of physical activity. Yoga can also be used as a form of post-workout stretching, which helps to increase range of motion and prevent injuries. The special property of yoga is that it increases energy levels. In addition, in spring and summer, when the temperature is high and the sun is shining brightly, practicing yoga will help regulate body temperature, as well as regulate digestion and strengthen the immune system.

Yoga vs. running - do you really have to choose between these activities?

Running and yoga are two very different activities, but both are perfect for spring and summer. Running is a great way to burn calories and improve your fitness, but it can be difficult in really hot weather. It is then worth going for a workout in the morning, when the air is not too warm yet, or in the evening, when it gets a little cooler. Yoga can be practiced both indoors and outdoors, so you can avoid the heat that is outside or take advantage of the beautiful sunshine on those moderately warm days. But do you really have to choose between these two disciplines? After all, yoga helps to reduce muscle tension, which is especially important after an intense running workout.

Combining yoga with other sports activities is the perfect recipe for complete workouts

Yoga is also a great addition to other sports activities, not only for running, but also for cycling, swimming or climbing. By strengthening the muscles, improving flexibility and balance, performing other forms of physical activity will not only be more comfortable, but above all, it will bring a lot of satisfaction. Also remember that you can also use yoga as a form of post-workout stretching. This will help to increase your range of motion and prevent injuries. In addition, the variety of yoga poses allows you to adapt the practice to your needs.

Which yoga poses to choose for a good start?

Yoga offers many poses that can be used as part of your workout. Here are a few that are especially effective in the summer:

- Mountain Pose - improves posture, reduces back pain, strengthens the abdomen, buttocks, thighs, knees and ankles.
- Downward-Facing Dog Pose - helps regulate body temperature and improves digestion.
- Warrior Two Pose - strengthens muscles, improves flexibility and balance.
- Bridge Pose - strengthens the muscles of the abdomen, back and buttocks, as well as improves flexibility.
- Happy Baby Pose - stretches the groin, increases awareness of the hips and pelvis, calms the mind, helps relieve stress and fatigue.

 Tips and tricks for spring-summer yoga practice

Here are some tips to help you stay motivated and energized while practicing yoga in spring and summer:

- Practice yoga in the early morning or late evening to avoid the heat of the day.
- Drink plenty of water before, during and after yoga to keep your body hydrated.
- Choose breathable and comfortable clothes that allow a wide range of movement.
- Practice yoga in the correct sequence of asanas - from easier to more difficult - to avoid injury.
- Turn on music that motivates you to keep your energy and enthusiasm during practice, but music that calms you down to focus on being here and now.

Yoga can become a regular habit if you take a few simple steps. Here are some tips to make yoga part of your daily routine:

- Try different forms of yoga such as Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Iyengar, and Yin Yoga.
- Find your favorite yoga style and learn the basic poses.
- Plan your practice at regular intervals and stick to it.
- Choose different yoga poses to avoid a routine.
- Practice yoga in a group or with an instructor for motivation and support.

 Convinced? Then see you with the mat in the meadow, in the park or in one of the many yoga studios!