Summer is here! The caterpillar has constructed its chrysalis, and while it may seem like nothing is happening, a quiet transformation is taking place. Inside the chrysalis the caterpillar digests its old form and breaks down into a goo. Yes, goo! This goo contains cell clusters called “imaginal discs” that carry the technology to rebuild its form into a butterfly. To the outside observer, this process is imperceptible — all that is visible is the cocoon.
In Austin, the summertime feels like a chrysalis. It is the season to go inward, both metaphorically and literally — because it’s hella hot out! Justin and I just harvested the last of our tomatoes, cucumbers and melons from our backyard garden. Now it is time to cut down the plants, cover the beds, and allow the soil to rest. In the darkness, the old plant material will break down and the compost will replenish the soil microbiology.
Nature reminds us that sometimes the best thing to do is nothing. Slowing down, doing less, and resting is an essential part of the transformation. The intentions we set in Spring are in motion and now we just need that special ingredient to work its magic — time.
This is a potent time to revisit the intentions we set during the energetic new year and acknowledge the alchemy that has taken place — no matter how subtle.
What have you cultivated so far this year that you want to acknowledge and celebrate?
What quiet metamorphosis are you undertaking?
What desires feel alive & burning?
Is anything draining your energy that no longer aligns with your intentions and values?
What would giving yourself permission to slow down look like?
What is bringing you joy this season?
How are you replenishing your energy?
Ritucharya: Summer Season Routines
The summer season is associated with the elements of fire and water, and Pitta dosha. During this time of year, the intensity of the sun’s rays weaken our energy and digestive capacity. So it is important to adopt a new routine in order to prevent common seasonal imbalances like indigestion, heartburn, skin rashes and redness, anger, irritation, and burnout.
An Ayurvedic summer routine can prevent imbalances by pacifying Pitta, cooling the mind, body, spirit and staying hydrated.
Here are a few tips to try this season:
🌞 Wake up by 6:30 am and watch the sunrise
🌸 Take mindful morning walks before it gets too hot
🧼 Practice tongue scraping before you brush your teeth in the morning
🌿Favor cooling herbs like coriander, fennel, cardamom, and mint
💦 Stay hydrated and incorporate natural electrolytes like fruit juices and teas
🫚Drink cooling herbal teas like mint, rose, hibiscus, lemon balm, and turmeric
🍜 Eat light, cooling and hydrating foods like watermelon, sweet grapes, cucumber, summer squash, asparagus, bitter greens, and coconut to prevent seasonal imbalances
🌻Favor restorative and yin yoga to replenish your energy
🌬️Favor cooling breath work like sitali and Chandra bhedana pranayama
✨ Refresh your altar with symbols of summer
🙏🏽 Write a daily gratitude list and prioritize contemplation practices
💛 Do less and rest
If you’d like to learn more about Ayurveda and how to prevent seasonal imbalances. I’ve created a free Ayurvedic Summer Guide that you can download here.
Looking for 1:1 support? I am accepting new Yoga Therapy and Ayurveda clients in person and online. Click here to learn more.
I would love to hear about your Summer rituals and routines! Leave a comment, or if you’re in Austin, come take class with me.
Or if you’re looking for your next adventure — we’ve opened up our 2027 retreat application! Discover our next destination, Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
It is an honor to walk this path with you sweet friends. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if I can support you this Spring!
From my heart to yours,
Kaytee
