Right now, we’re immersed in blazing days, sunlight pouring overhead, and energy crackling in the air—hello, Fire Season. The world is alive with heat, movement, and the pulse of vitality. It’s the time to fly high, engage deeply, but also to stay cool and centered amidst the spark.

So what is Fire Season in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?

In TCM, the year unfolds across five seasons—not just four. Summer aligns with the Fire element: the peak of warmth, vibrancy, and outward expression. Fire rules the Heart and Small Intestine, igniting joy, connection, and movement. This season is all about radiance, heat, and the lively dynamism of life.

  • Organs: Heart (emotions, warmth, circulation) and Small Intestine (distinction, assimilation—not just of food, but of experience)
  • Element: Fire—bright, expansive, transformational
  • Emotion: Joy—inner light, community bonds, playfulness
  • Seasonal tone: Active, open-hearted, expressive—and sometimes hot and a bit flurried

How This Season Shapes Our Yoga Practice
The Fire Season invites us to channel heat, passion, and light—while cultivating calm presence, mindful breath, and inner tranquility.

Things to try:

  • Heart-opening poses like Camel, Bridge, and Wheel to embody warmth and expansion.
  • Backbends and arm balancing to spark energy and find balanced expression.
  • Gentle forward folds to regulate the heat buildup
  • Controlled breath work (like Ujjayi or Lion’s Breath) to stoke inner fire without burning out.
  • Creative flows—inviting play, uplift, and spirited movement.
  • Moments of stillness—meditation, savasana, or gentle seated cooling to settle the heart’s heat.

In the Studio (and in the Heat)
Summer’s here, and it might feel like the studio is melting—or outside, for that matter! This season can be both invigorating and a bit overwhelming.

Be mindful of your limits: sweat, fatigue, and restlessness can jump in if you’re not careful.

Hydrate and cool: sip water, use fans or light props, take breaks when needed.

Balance your fire: pair dynamic flows with restorative or cooling postures.

Share joy: laughter, warmth, connection—that’s Summer energy in action.

This is the season to shine—not to burn out. Celebrate your inner fire; share your warmth; move with ease and brightness.

See you in class,

Posted in Yoga