Summer is the perfect time to shake off the rigid schedules and sweaty indoor gyms. But if boutique Pilates or pricey group fitness classes feel out of reach, or just not in alignment, you’re not alone. The good news? You can create a powerful summer wellness routine without setting foot in a gym. I wanted to share some ideas on five creative ways to stay active and connected to your body during the summer season.
1. Stretch Outside (Barefoot if You Can)
There’s something so grounding about pressing your feet into the earth and letting your body soak in the sun or moonlight.
How to do it:
- Head to a backyard, park, or balcony.
- Try seated side bends, forward folds, or gentle heart-opening shapes.
- Focus on your breath and the sensations beneath your feet.
Benefits:
- Regulates the nervous system
- Supports hip and spine mobility
- Connects you with nature and body awareness
2. Try Walking Meditations for Mind-Body Balance
Not every walk has to be about tracking steps. Walking in silence or with soulful music can become a moving meditation.
Try this:
- Walk at sunrise or sunset for gentle light exposure
- Ditch the phone or put on a playlist that brings you peace
- Breathe intentionally and notice sounds, textures, and air on your skin
Why it works:
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Improves circulation and mood
- Encourages mindfulness without needing a mat or studio
3. Dance Breaks (Seriously, Try One)
If you’ve been feeling stuck or disconnected, a 3-minute dance break might be just what your body needs.
How to do it:
- Play one feel-good song
- Close the door and let yourself move freely
- Shake out tension, jump around, or move like no one’s watching
Why it helps:
- Releases stagnant energy
- Boosts dopamine and joy
- Requires no equipment, just rhythm and release
4. Move With YouTube: Free Yoga and Exercise
YouTube is filled with expert instructors offering high-quality, full-length workouts that are completely free.
Here are some of my top YouTube channels for summer movement:
- Yoga with Adriene – Approachable yoga for every body- https://www.youtube.com/@yogawithadriene/videos
- Yoga with Flowjo – A friend of mine and an excellent Yoga and Barre instructor! https://www.youtube.com/@Flowwj0
- Yoga with Kassandra – Yin Yoga, Pilates, and Vinyasa, led by an awesome instructor who knows her stuff! https://www.youtube.com/@yogawithkassandra
- Claire’s Wellness Corner – Yes, that’s me! Yin yoga and stretch routines to add to your weekly routine.https://www.youtube.com/@ClairesWellnessCorner
- Flow with Mira – Sculpting and Pilates workouts. https://www.youtube.com/@FlowWithMira
- Isa Welly – Pilates with very clear and helpful cueing. https://www.youtube.com/@Isawellypilates/videos
- Move with Nicole – Challenging and fun Pilates and yoga flows. https://www.youtube.com/@MoveWithNicole
- WalkwithJo – Cardio walks and dance workouts for all levels. Break a sweat and have fun! https://www.youtube.com/@growwithjo
- Izzy Samuel – More intense full-body plates challenges when you’re feeling strong! https://www.youtube.com/@izzy.samuel
Pro Tip: Bookmark your favorite 10–30 min flows for easy access when your motivation dips.
5. Make Movement a Form of Self-Connection
The biggest shift in my summer wellness practice? Asking what kind of movement feels good for me today.
Not punishment. Not “shoulds”, but what feels good and beneficial to my body.
That might mean:
- A 10-minute stretch
- A mindful walk
- A leg day workout at the park.
- A solo dance session
- Or a full-length class on YouTube
Remember: you don’t need a gym to feel strong, grounded, or whole.
This summer, give yourself permission to move in a different way. To flow more, force less. To stretch, walk, and dance your way into clarity, peace, and presence. Want to explore more intentional movement?
Subscribe to Claire’s Wellness Corner on YouTube and check out my latest Yin Yoga flows and stretch sessions for every body and season!
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