By Jade McSorley for Summersalt Yoga

Sure, I can lay on a beach on my vacation, working persistently on a tan that will probably never appear on my pale-ass British skin, reading some cult fiction I usually convince myself I never have time to read, whilst secretly checking the Daily Mail for a bit of mindless news. And sure, I can taste the local tipple (which is a punchy fruit brandy called Rakija here in Croatia), sample the delicious fresh fish caught that very morning by the fisherman of Vis Island, purchase some local olive oil from local vendors for my family back home and an ankle bracelet I’ll probably never wear out of holiday context. It all sounds delicious and blissful… And it is here on Vis Island, home to Summersalt’s Yoga and SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) retreat.

The Deeper Need for Yoga Retreats

Yet, I have noticed with travellers that beach life isn’t the only experience we crave when we choose to leave the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. There seems to be a growing need for yoga retreats, in particular, to diffuse the energy imposed by city-living which has resulted in a constant state of angst and adrenaline. We basically need a stronger chill pill that won’t just numb the stress but deal with the source of the problem. And it is at yoga retreats, I feel, that this can be achieved—or at least give some space and time to really focus in.

After spending some time amongst the Summersalt Yoga family, I couldn’t help pondering what we need in order to make the most of yoga retreats and why they are so much more than just your average vacation. Not only do we want to leave feeling relaxed, but also energised, balanced, and healed in some way.

So, as writers do, I focused on the words that come to mind when considering yoga retreats—what they can offer, and what, as travellers and yogis, we should consider when turning up to our mats no matter where we are in the world. From my own personal experience of yoga retreats, and my stay here at Summersalt Yoga, I thought I would share some of my own words to contemplate that may help you make the most out of your next retreat.

Honesty at Yoga Retreats: Starting with Self-Reflection

Turning up and being honest with yourself is probably the first and most challenging thing I found at the start of any yoga retreat: What do I need from this experience? How do I feel? And what would I like to work on? Initially, it is usually the hardest thing to focus on something that could be potentially painful, mental or physical, staring it right in the eyes and thinking, I am ready for you! Bring it on.

Connecting with Others Authentically

As most yoga retreats go, and certainly at Summersalt Yoga, you are surrounded by new people from different countries and walks of life. Sometimes you feel social and sometimes not, and that’s OK. Yoga retreats are about focusing on your energy levels and what you have to offer in that moment. I am generally super quiet at the start but as you spend time with your new social circle, you naturally open up, joining in the conversations and learning more about others, realising people are always offering fresh perspective and new knowledge.

How Yoga Retreats Help You Reflect and Reframe

It is so hard to turn off your brain. Well, it is for me and I am hoping I am not the only one. Even in Savasana my mind is swirling with thoughts. Being reflective is cosy and familiar, but can also be detrimental when working through something, so I think it is always great to use a yoga retreat, based within new settings, to reframe past events and establish new foundations to move forward.

Boosting Your Health Through Yoga

Basically, you are going to walk out of a yoga retreat fit and that is always a big bonus. I swear, by the fourth day into SUP’ing (Stand Up Paddleboard with Yoga) I found my water bottle too heavy to lift. At least I knew it was working and I became very excited to see the mini muscles brewing in my sparrow-like limbs. Whilst being fit is definitely a positive, the effect on your mental health is tremendous! Being active in the morning and evening boosted my energy levels instead of feeling lethargic from a day baking in the sun. Meaning you can go home feeling ready for life, instead of forcing yourself out of holiday mode.

Breathing with Intention

Yes, I know every single yoga teacher goes on about this thing called ‘the breath’. You know, the thing we forget to think about and sometimes don’t do at a healthy pace in our stressful lives. Breath is the key. If your muscles are tight—breathe into the spot and your muscles gradually and magically relax. If your anxieties are rising—breathe and your body and mind calms itself. If you can’t stop thinking—breathe and focus on the breath alone. Yoga retreats can be useful in removing yourself from chaotic surroundings to a new destination more in tune with a slower and steadier pace of breath.

Finding Balance on and off the Mat

This is the aim really. The feel-good factor. To feel balanced and grounded both physically and mentally is what our bodies and minds are crying out for. Yoga retreats provide the grounds to achieve this through a balance of exercise, meditation, healthy food and relaxation, meaning your body just needs to become in sync with this way of living. As well as a holiday, they become a beneficial necessity for us heightened human beings that just can’t seem to chill the f*** out on our own!

How to Sustain the Benefits of Yoga Retreats

I am a huge fan of sustainability across all fields—fashion, travel, food. But we never really relate it to ourselves and I believe it is so important to figure out how we can sustain this balanced feeling, as well as give and receive in a healthy, sustainable way to others and our planet. The ultimate test after living blissfully at a yoga retreat is to remain balanced and considered when we step into the land of Yang. I am not going to lie, it’s definitely going to require more effort than was needed spent at the tranquil setting of Summersalt Yoga, or any other exotic destination. So many times I have left my yoga mat and stepped into the hedonistic atmosphere of crowds, traffic, phones and social media and instantly forgotten that calm feeling I have just established throughout my practice. To sustain, we need to constantly practice and form positive habits in order to rest and digest in any setting. So that lessons learnt in the beauty of a yoga retreat can stick with you wherever you may move forward to next.

How Yoga Retreats Can Stay With You Long-Term

Yoga retreats are more than just a relaxing escape—they are a space for inner work, connection, and growth. Whether it’s reconnecting with your breath, nourishing your body, or simply stepping out of your routine, the benefits of yoga retreats can follow you long after the last Savasana. The key is to carry those lessons into your daily life—to breathe, to reflect, to sustain. Because the true transformation begins when the retreat ends.

The post Why Yoga Retreats Are More Than Just a Vacation appeared first on Summersalt Yoga.

Despite its juicy name, the Strawberry Moon won’t be blushing pink—unless you’re watching it through rose-colored glasses. This full moon in June gets its charming name from Native American tribes like the Algonquin, who marked this time as the peak of strawberry harvesting season.

This year, the Strawberry Moon rises in a blaze of golden glory on June 11, 2025, lighting up the sky and inviting us all to pause, breathe, and maybe dream a little bigger.

When & Where to Catch the Show

The Strawberry Moon peaks at 3:44 AM ET on June 11, but you’ll want to start watching the horizon as early as the evening of June 10. As it rises, this full moon will appear extra large and golden—a low-hanging gem in the night sky.

Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Find a wide-open space with an eastern view
• Watch around moonrise for the biggest wow factor
• Use binoculars if you’ve got them—but wonder works without gear too

The Astrological Magic Behind the Strawberry Moon

Big energy, big dreams

This Strawberry Moon arrives in bold Sagittarius, the zodiac’s explorer and truth-seeker. It’s a moon that says: take the leap, write the book, plan the trip, confess the thing. Sagittarius energy dares us to imagine life beyond the ordinary—and this moon beams it into every corner of our lives.

While it harmonizes with expansive Jupiter and dynamic Mars, it also squares off with dreamy Neptune and serious Saturn. Translation? Dream big, but build wisely.

This moon isn’t just about manifesting wishes. It’s about anchoring those wishes in real momentum.

Who Will Feel the Strawberry Moon Most?

While everyone gets a dose of lunar magic, these signs may feel it more intensely:

• Fire signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius): Confidence gets a boost. Time to act on bold ideas.
• Water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces): Emotional release is on the menu—journaling or gentle movement can help.
• Earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn): Themes of home, money, and grounding come up. Reassess and re-align.
• Air signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius): Expect sparkling conversations, wild inspiration, and new connections.

The 2025 Strawberry Moon also has a rare low-horizon arc, meaning it will appear unusually large and close to the Earth—adding even more drama and delight to the moment.

Ways to Celebrate the Strawberry Moon

You don’t need a ritual robe or crystal grid (though bring them if you’d like). Just open your heart and your senses to this lunar sweetness. A few ideas:

• Moonrise picnic with strawberries, of course
• Write down goals or wishes and release them under the moon
• Host a stargazing gathering—solo or with kindred spirits
• Do a letting-go meditation for things that no longer serve
• Take a spontaneous evening walk and let your thoughts wander

This full moon is about joy, clarity, and bold momentum. Let your inner adventurer come out to play.

The Strawberry Moon Is a Cosmic Reminder to Live Fully

The Strawberry Moon of 2025 is more than a pretty face in the night sky—it’s a gentle cosmic nudge toward courage, creativity, and authenticity. Whether you watch it from your balcony, a city rooftop, or a quiet meadow, let this moon remind you of all that’s ripe, real, and ready to bloom.

Let go of what you’ve outgrown. Say yes to your next chapter. And above all, make time to look up. The universe is always offering us magic—we just have to be willing to meet it halfway.

The post Strawberry Moon 2025: A Cosmic Celebration appeared first on Summersalt Yoga.

By Ana Jovicic

There are quotes about mindfulness mediation that we’ve all heard so many times that we’re not sure what they mean anymore, much less who said them first.

In the same way that we can suddenly identify with countless love songs after experiencing heartbreak, we start to realise the deeper meaning of these cheesy quotes only when new lessons emerge in our lives.

Below are five overused sayings that we’ve all rolled our eyes at, that start to make sense as we find ways to live our lives more mindfully—especially through the lens of mindfulness meditation.

“What we do today is what matters most”

The human mind likes to go places non-related to where the body currently is, so it doesn’t like the phrases that emphasise the importance of being “here and now”. That’s why it puts them in the “Nonsense” box.

If you would stop to observe what your mind actually does when you are not entirely present, you’d notice its wandering patterns. It jumps from one thing to another, asks questions, answers them, relives moments long gone, imagines what it would be like if something went a different way, wonders about things that didn’t happen yet, gives excuses, tells stories, makes plans, holds onto some things, skips over others. Every mentioned mental process has nothing to do with the place you are currently in – the crossroad of here and now.

If your mind went off track and you kept following its spinning chain of thoughts throughout the day, there are just a couple of possible scenarios. If you were working, you weren’t really productive. If you were resting, you were getting in your own way of enjoying life.

So this quote simply reminds you about the importance of bringing yourself back to where you already are. Mindfulness meditation helps train your mind to return to the present again and again. We really tend to forget that.

“Embrace the glorious mess that you are”

First of all, what’s glorious about anyone’s mess and why would you embrace it anyway?

This was the first step for all of us who grew from self-loathing masked egomaniacs into more authentic and self-loving versions of ourselves.

With recognising and accepting your messy parts, you’re creating foundations for personal growth. It is natural to judge, run from, feel guilty about, or simply ignore that inner confusion. It is more challenging to pause and truly hold that uncensored chaos in awareness, feel it, experience it, and thereby come to understand it better.

Mindfulness meditation teaches you to recognise the humanness in yourself and in others, and all that goes with it. It allows you to see the beauty within the messy and the unknown. By giving yourself permission to be as you are in this very moment, fully awake and open-hearted, you are practicing the love that has no conditions to attain unto. Embracing your mess is a step closer to, well, another form of mess – but more peaceful, loving, and kind.

“Let go of what was, surrender to what is”

At first, this worn-out quote sounds give-me-a-break-ish. After giving it some thought and questioning how it relates to your life, it probably sounds like the most difficult thing ever. How can you let go of something that is over if you still want it? How to surrender to a reality that is uncomfortable or simply unpredictable? Answers, again, lie in mindfulness meditation.

Being able to completely surrender to whatever life has to offer is an ability that requires presence, receptiveness, faith in your capacities, a healthy dose of independence, and who knows what else. This process starts with observing what is happening moment by moment and then learning how to let go of the need to control the things unrelated to your own choices.

It’s a long-learning process, not just a shift of perception. When it comes to mindfulness and emotional intelligence, a simple decision can’t be a game-changer. Practice is key.

“Practice and all is coming”

In today’s world, committing yourself to practice has never been so difficult and so easy at the same time. On the one hand, the fast high-tech world is designed to distract you. On the other, there are some awesome mindfulness meditation apps waiting to be downloaded by a simple click on your phone – which is always within your hand’s reach anyway.

Taking five minutes a day to practice can actually change the course of your life to a more peaceful reality. Mindfulness meditation teaches you to drop the expectations or regrets and stop the hunt for certain goals. Not to be confused with giving up on something you want to achieve, it simply invites you to hold present moment in awareness, reminding you that your only goal is to keep practicing.

Without forcing or avoiding anything, simply by coming back to yourself one breath at a time, all is coming.

“7 billion smiles, and mine is my favourite”

Okay, I may have changed the trashiest quote in the world – but only one word of it!

The biggest lesson we can take from mindfulness meditation; the wisest thing we will ever get to learn and live, is self-love. It’s the cornerstone of the way we choose to live our lives, the foundation for our happiness.

Everything in life unfolds from a place of abundance or lack of self-love.

Every relationship we invest in, run from, sabotage, force, learn from, hold on to – is a testimony of the relationship we have with our own selves.

Why do we let something hurt us? Why are we feeling addicted to something or over-attached to someone? It is all about lack of self-love.

How can the world be a better place? Gazillions of self-lovers in different shapes, colours and sizes!

So, to quote the words of Mr Bieber, you should (definitely) go and love yourself.

A Mindful Takeaway on Mindfulness Meditation

If these quotes have ever made you cringe or roll your eyes, don’t worry—they once did for me too. But when you begin a consistent mindfulness meditation practice, their meaning quietly unfolds. You begin to live more consciously, let go more gently, and relate to yourself with more kindness. And suddenly, the cheesy quotes start to sound like wisdom.

The post 5 Quotes for Mindfulness Meditation appeared first on Summersalt Yoga.

We all love the thrill of discovering new places. But with the climate crisis looming, sustainability in travel and tourism matters now more than ever. When disasters strike or choices feel overwhelming, it’s easy to feel small—but every journey we take can make a positive impact. Here’s how.

Choosing Thoughtful Destinations

Start with mindful planning. Avoid over-touristed spots where locals suffer from rising prices or environmental strain. Instead, choose places where:

• Tourism supports the local economy sustainably
• Communities are respected and compensated fairly
• Nature is preserved, not exploited

These steps align with the GSTC’s sustainable tourism principles: balancing economic, environmental, and socio-cultural well-being.

Offset Your Carbon Footprint

Planes and rental cars contribute significantly to emissions. Calculate your carbon footprint using tools like ClimateCare’s calculator, then offset it with certified programs sustainabletravel.org. Investing in reforestation or clean energy projects makes your travel more responsible.

Ten Practices for Sustainability in Travel and Tourism

Here are top tips to reduce your impact:

1. Go off the beaten path
   Explore smaller towns and rural areas to avoid overcrowding and spread economic benefits.
2. Travel slower and longer
   Fewer but longer trips mean less transport stress and deeper connections with local culture.
3. Choose cleaner transport
   Take trains or buses when possible. For airport travel, AI route optimization helps cut aviation emissions.
4. Conserve local resources
   Use energy and water mindfully in your accommodation—shorter showers, turning off AC, and reusing towel.
5. Stay at sustainable certified hotels
   Look for Green Key or EarthCheck certifications for eco-conscious lodging/
6. Offset unavoidable emissions
   Compensate your footprint via trusted offset platforms.
7. Support community-focused initiatives
   Choose businesses that benefit local people directly and avoid companies practicing greenwashing.
8. Use eco-friendly products
   Bring reusable razors, reef-safe sunscreen, solid shampoo, and menstrual cups to reduce single-use plastic.
9. Educate yourself on climate effects
   Learn through resources from Conservation International, WHO, WWF to travel forward with awareness .
10. Engage responsibly
    Ask if experiences benefit hosts and ecosystems, observe local customs, and respect environments.

Travel Gear for Sustainable Travel

Look for travel gear that lasts and protects nature:

• Safety razors (EcoRoots, Jungle Culture).
• Solid shampoo or multipurpose soap bars.
• Reef-safe and plastic-free sunscreens.
• Reusable menstrual cups like DivaCup.
• Bamboo toothbrushes and zero-waste personal care.

Technological Solutions for Greener Tourism

AI and digital innovation are reshaping sustainable tourism:

• Smart route planning and reduced fuel use in air travel.
• AI-driven tools to cut food waste and energy in hotels reuters.com
• Apps that help travelers find truly green accommodations and services

Systemic Support & Industry Standards

Broader frameworks help drive change:

• Certifications like Green Key and EarthCheck guide sustainable hotel practice/
• WTTC promotes climate strategies and decarbonization for tourism.
• UNWTO and Travalyst are raising awareness and enabling greener consumer choices.

Taking those first steps

• Research destinations and certifications
• Calculate and offset your emissions
• Pack light and choose reusable travel gear
• Support local and certified businesses
• Educate yourself and share sustainable travel stories

Moving Forward with Sustainability in Travel and Tourism

By adopting sustainability in travel and tourism, we transform individual trips into meaningful actions. Choose thoughtful destinations, reduce footprints, pack responsibly, and support eco-conscious businesses. Every traveler has the power to shape tourism’s future—ensuring that our adventures don’t cost the planet.

The post Embracing Sustainability in Travel and Tourism appeared first on Summersalt Yoga.

By Ana Jovicic

The post How to Create a Personalized Yoga Flow appeared first on Summersalt Yoga.

By Rosie Markwick, Summersalt Yoga teacher

SUP yoga is a fairly new craze that is hitting the US, Asia and slowly creeping its way over to European shores.

So what is SUP paddle board yoga? It is essentially yoga on a paddle board. That’s right – a yoga class on a large, 10ft long floating platform in the middle of the water.

Sound bonkers? It does a little yes. As a SUP teacher, often the first question I get is; really, you do yoga on that? On the water? Is that even possible?

The answer is YES YES YES!

Stand up paddle boarding is currently the world’s fastest growing water sport and has been established in the last 5 years especially, as a fun and accessible way to get fit and spend some time on the water.

So perhaps it isn’t surprising that SUP related activities are popping up left right and centre. SUP touring, SUP racing, SUP surfing, SUP fit, SUP angling (for reals) and SUP paddle board yoga. Turns out there are lots of things you can do on a paddle board in addition to standing and paddling.

Discovering the Magic of SUP Paddle Board Yoga

My own discovery was random and brilliant and the love affair that took my practice and teaching out to the water was fast and furious. I remember my first ever SUP class coming to a close and feeling so present, focused, strong and deeply relaxed. And on top of this it was almost as if my body and subsequently mind had fused and blended with the environment, no longer separate entities. Wholeness in its complete form. It was magic.

Needless to say, I am a convert. Having said that, I am aware it is still a relatively lesser known practice and so we thought it would be helpful to compile a few of the reasons you might want to give SUP paddle board yoga a go this year…

Why SUP Paddle Board Yoga Is Incredible for Your Core

CORE CORE CORE! I cannot stress this enough, SUP paddle board yoga is amazing for developing stability and strength in the core. And stability and strength in the core = injury prevention, spinal health, self-confidence, finding your centre… and the list goes on and on.

Essentially akin to being on a floating Pilates plate, the balance required means that you have to activate the core just to stay on the board. SUP paddle board yoga will help you to connect to this part of the body like no other. And because the core isn’t just activated with repetitive movement here but the entire time i.e. you breathe whilst it is activated, it is a real game changer for improving strength and balance. You will leave the board feeling stronger and more stable in your mat practice and beyond.

SUP and the Water Element

The 2nd chakra, Svadhisthana is located in the pelvic area. And the element associated with this chakra? WATER. When I first started practicing and teaching SUP paddle board yoga I realised I was really drawn to poses that got deep into the hips and legs – lizard lunges, pigeon, half hanumanasana, even full splits (side note: the latter is not a pose I am normally drawn to AT ALL). After a bit of exploring, it appeared that students typically also felt more openness in these shapes when on the water. It’s a bit of a theory of my own, but I believe there is something about being on the water—the element of Svadhisthana—that inspires the body to move as the water does – fluidly, thus mirroring the element of the chakra and promoting a depth in the related body parts that might not be so easily reached on land.

Practicing SUP Paddle Board Yoga in Nature

When you practise SUP yoga, you get to be outside. Take your practice out of the confines of a studio and the sky becomes your ceiling, the water your ground and the air / sun / rain / wind your walls. There is just something about water that is so good for us humans and now the science is backing this up as well. Research has shown that being on, near and in water has been found to release Serotonin and Relaxin. The hormones associated with happiness and relaxing. How delightful! Nature is so good for the soul and trust me floating away during savasana out on the big blue is reason enough alone to try SUP paddle board yoga.

I have taught SUP on lagoons in Indonesia where sea turtles come and say hello and canals in east London (no sea turtles but a lot of ‘urban charm’). The environment changes but a few things remain the same; we are outside, learning to let the water hold us, allowing ourselves to wobble (inevitable), to fall (highly likely) and then to get back up again. The ego literally gets washed away (pun intended) during SUP paddle board yoga whether you like it or not and the best thing you can do is laugh, clamber back aboard and keep on trying – now what a lesson for life that is.

Why You Should Give SUP Paddle Board Yoga a Go

Plus it will make you feel a bit like a mermaid for a morning and who doesn’t want a bit of that.

If you’re looking for a unique, challenging, and nature-connected practice, SUP paddle board yoga might just be your new favorite obsession. Whether you’re chasing strength, serenity, or simply a new way to experience yoga, the water is ready to meet you where you are.

The post Why You Should Try SUP Paddle Board Yoga appeared first on Summersalt Yoga.

By Rosie Markwick, Summersalt yoga teacher

Why do I love water so much? It’s a question I’ve found myself asking more and more lately. It’s not exactly new news that many of us feel an irresistible pull towards the water. Across time and cultures, water has been used to cleanse, tocelebrate, to heal, and to move. Civilizations have flourished around it, and we travel far and wide just to be near it. But what’s really going on behind this connection?

As a lifelong water lover, I know the feeling intimately. I can sit for hours watching waves roll in—something I rarely do anywhere else. Whenever my mind is anxious or busy, I find instant relief the moment I dive into a pool. Unsurprisingly, my work has led me to become both a SUP yoga teacher and a SUP instructor, fully immersed in the magic of water—literally and figuratively.

Why Do I Love Water So Much? The Science and Soul Behind the Feeling

In this work, I get a front-row seat to people’s transformations. In the heart of a bustling city like London, I’ve seen clients show up to paddleboarding sessions nervous, quiet, or tightly wound—and leave noticeably calmer, brighter, and more grounded. Yes, trying something new can boost confidence. But what unfolds on the water often goes deeper. Conversations spark more freely, and openness flows more naturally. It’s not just about activity—it’s about atmosphere.

And this isn’t just anecdotal. The more I observe, the more fascinated I’ve become with the why. Why does water affect us so profoundly?

My ongoing research has surfaced two powerful explanations.

First, there’s biology. Just being near water—let alone in or on it—can stimulate the release of relaxin and serotonin: the hormones responsible for relaxation and happiness. In other words, water calms us on a chemical level.

The Psychology of Why We Love Water: Blue Mind & Beyond

Then there’s the work of Wallace J. Nichols, who coined the term Blue Mind—a state of calm, peace, and contentment sparked simply by being near water. According to Nichols, our brains are hardwired to respond positively to water, unlocking creativity, connection, and even healing.

The second explanation comes from the realm of transpersonal psychology. Water is not just an element—it’s nature, mystery, and metaphor rolled into one. When we step slightly out of our comfort zones and into nature, we gain perspective. We realize our smallness and strength at the same time. That moment of awe—that “I’m okay even here”—can become a powerful inner resource.

Wilderness therapy already leans on this principle. But I’d argue water-based activities like SUP and SUP yoga may offer an especially potent dose. Floating, balancing, breathing—you feel alive, capable, and calm, all at once.

Why Do I Love Water So Much? Here’s What I’ve Learned

So, why do I love water so much? Because water does something to us—on a physical, emotional, and spiritual level.Whether it’s the calming effect on our nervous systems, the honest conversations that seem to flow more freely, or the deeper self-realizations that rise to the surface, water connects us to something profound.

If you’re already a certified water baby—now you know there’s real science and psychology behind it. And if you’re not quite sure yet, I invite you to give it a try. Step onto a board, dip into a pool, or simply sit near a body of water and notice how you feel. You just might start asking yourself the same question: why do I love water so much?

Wallace J Nichols’s book “Blue Mind” explains why we love being by the water so much!

The post Why Do I Love Water So Much? appeared first on Summersalt Yoga.

You keep hearing, reading, dreaming about it (ok, maybe not that), but you’re still not sure – what is the mighty SUP (stand up paddling) and more importantly – why should you care and start doing it? Well, we sat down and put together a short introduction to this fun and active sport that has taken the world and the yoga world by storm.

What Is Stand Up Paddle Boarding?

To put it shortly – stand up paddle surfing or simply SUP is a form of surfing where the surfer uses a paddle to move through the water while standing on a surfboard (a specially designed surfboard). The sport is quickly gaining popularity all over the world because of its simplicity and quick learning curve.

The History of Stand Up Paddle Boarding

The history of stand up paddle boarding comes from its Polynesian roots. The Hawaiian translation is Ku Hoe He’e Nalu which means – to stand, to paddle, to surf a wave. So it’s no wonder that the modern version of this sport has originated in the Hawaiian Islands where in the early 1960 surf instructors would stand on their long boards and paddle out with paddles to take pictures of the tourists learning to surf.

Why You Should Try Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Today, stand up paddle boarding is popular around the world and holds an advantage over surfing or windsurfing – you do not need to wait for waves, good winds, as well as no special preparation or physical condition, is needed to practice it.

SUP – An Incredible Exercise

The full-body workout SUP provides is just unbelievable – it offers a combination of balance, strength, and endurance which are exercised at all times, whether you are paddling or just balancing on your board. It’s not only an excellent core workout but it also makes your legs, back, shoulders, arms, and toes work together.

For those who are new to any water sports, it’s important and good to know that SUP is a very low impact exercise, which means that the chances of you damaging your tendons, ligaments, or joints is very low. So yes, you can relax and just enjoy the workout and the ride! And what a ride – in addition to the mere pleasure of being on the water you are actually doing a cardio exercise, burning calories and hey – lowering the chances of a heart attack and a stroke.

But you know what we love about SUP so much – it’s not just these incredible benefits, but also a unique way to escape, relax, relieve stress and just chill!

SUP and Yoga

Today’s wellness world is incredible – it constantly provides us with new experiences. And so do SUP boards. We’re talking SUP yoga, of course. Why do it? Performing yoga while on a paddleboard adds an extra dimension of balance and challenge to the practice as well as a whole lot of fun! In addition to that, having a SUP yoga class is far more pleasant and relaxing than being in a crowded studio or gym. We’re talking yoga on the water, right, does this get any better?

Try it This Summer

Stand up paddle boarding is a versatile and enjoyable sport that offers numerous health benefits and a unique way to connect with nature. Whether you’re looking for a full-body workout, a new way to practice yoga, or simply a fun activity to enjoy on the water, SUP has something to offer everyone. So why not give it a try and discover the joys of stand up paddle boarding for yourself?

The post What Is Stand Up Paddle Boarding? appeared first on Summersalt Yoga.

Ahh, the New Moon – the magical reset button of the sky

This celestial moment is all about fresh starts, quiet reflection, and planting energetic seeds for the future. It’s a time to pause, check in with yourself, and ask: What do I want to welcome into my life?

That’s where new moon intentions come in. These are focused, heart-led desires we set under the clean slate energy of the New Moon. Think of them as soulful goal-setting, wrapped in ritual and moonlight. Whether you’re flying solo or gathering with your cosmic crew, a New Moon intention-setting ceremony is a powerful way to reconnect with your inner compass and manifest with clarity.

Prepare Your Space to Welcome New Moon Intentions

Your ceremony doesn’t need to be elaborate to be meaningful. What matters most is that the space feels sacred and special to you. If it’s warm, head outdoors—your garden, balcony, or a nearby forest clearing can be magical. If you’re indoors, cozy it up in your favorite room.

Cleanse the space physically and energetically. Use sage, Palo Santo, or essential oils. Add candles, crystals, shells, flowers—whatever makes your soul hum. You can even lay a scarf or special cloth to create a mini altar. If you’re doing this with a group, let everyone contribute something to the space. Shared energy makes it even more beautiful.

Don’t forget to prepare yourself too—shower, dress in something that makes you feel radiant, and arrive as your most present self.

Set the Mood with Intention

Sound has power. Put on a meditative playlist, tune into the natural sounds around you, or strike a singing bowl to mark the beginning of your ritual. This is the time to drop into presence. If you’re with others, nourish yourselves with simple snacks—fruit, herbal tea, or whatever feels grounding before you begin.

Meditate Before You Set Your New Moon Intentions

Before diving into intention-setting, take a few moments to just be. Close your eyes. Breathe deeply. Notice where your mind goes. Invite stillness. This helps clear mental clutter and opens the door to what really matters to you right now.

The Ritual of Writing New Moon Intentions

Now for the magic part.

Take a beautiful notebook and a pen that feels special, and start writing your new moon intentions. Be honest. Be specific. Let your heart lead.

You can even reflect on these a few days before the New Moon so you’re not scrambling for inspiration. Instead of micromanaging the Universe (tempting, we know), stay open. For example:

• Instead of: “I want to get the job at X company,” try: “I welcome a fulfilling, well-paying job where I feel valued and inspired.”
• Instead of: “I want Alex to love me,” go for: “I attract a loving partner who is aligned with my values and life path.”

Remember: The intention should feel expansive and true—not like a “should.” Trust that what’s aligned will come.

Say a Mantra, Visualize, and Soak It In

Once your new moon intentions are written, close your eyes again and feel the energy of them. Imagine what life will look and feel like when they come true. Speak a mantra, a prayer, or just say “thank you” to the Universe for what’s already unfolding.

If you’re with others and it feels safe, share your intentions aloud. Speaking them can add power and accountability.

When you’re done, gently blow out your candles or incense. Wrap yourself in a soft blanket, sip some tea, and let the ritual settle into your soul.

Put Your New Moon Intentions into Action

Even with all the moon magic in the world, nothing changes unless you do.

So yes, write it down—but also take aligned action. Want better health? Stretch tomorrow. Want a career shift? Update that LinkedIn profile. Want more connection? Reach out to someone.

The New Moon gives you clarity, but the Universe loves a partner who shows up and does the thing.

Why New Moon Intentions Matter

New moon intentions aren’t just pretty words on paper—they’re a powerful practice in self-awareness and creation. They invite you to pause, listen inward, and take conscious steps toward a more aligned life. Each New Moon is an invitation to dream, reset, and evolve.

So go ahead—light the candle, write the thing, and trust the magic in motion.

Namaste and happy manifesting.

The post How to Set Powerful New Moon Intentions appeared first on Summersalt Yoga.

By Jade McSorley for Summersalt Yoga 

Walking through the narrow, winding lanes of Vis Island, every turn reveals a fusion of stone and green, of human life and nature. This Mediterranean beauty—where gardens intertwine with ancient walls and iron gates—whispers the same nostalgic charm as The Secret Garden. Whether it’s laundry hanging under palm trees or cats drifting in the midday heat, Vis Island offers a gentle reminder of discovery and simplicity.

Hidden Gardens & Stone Streets

Botanical life flourishes on Vis Island, seeping through cracks in the centuries-old masonry. As you wander beneath archways and alongside iron gates, you’ll stumble upon vibrant patches of green—jasmine, olive saplings, and creeping vines—intertwining with the island’s winding paths. Each secret garden feels like a treasure revealed, a living tapestry woven into the stone walls.

Washing lines hanging overhead, scattered chairs, and tables set for long Mediterranean meals suggest lives recently paused—moments frozen in time. Meanwhile, sunbathing cats complete the scene, their stillness offering a peaceful counterpoint to the island’s bustle.

Architecture Meets Nature

The interplay between architecture and garden on Vis Island creates a unique harmony. Medieval stone buildings, humble homes, and flowering courtyards stand side by side. You’ll find stairways peppered with wildflowers, ancient wells encircled by potted succulents, and arches draped in bougainvillea. It prompts the question: did the greenery grow after the walls, or did these walls grow around the gardens?

A Journey Through Time & Texture

Roaming Vis Island feels like playing hide-and-seek through history. Every corner invites you to discover forgotten corners and botanical surprises. The texture of stone, the scent of rosemary, and the dappled light under olive trees evoke a sense of timelessness—transporting you to simpler, more curious days.

From laundry strung between palms to the rhythmic lull of distant waves, every detail of island life reveals itself gradually, and beautifully, to those walking slowly enough to notice.

How to Embrace Vis Island Quiet Wonders

• Explore on foot: Give yourself permission to get lost, because every alley leads to something magical.
• Watch for gardens: Many courtyards are hidden behind unassuming gates—just a gentle knock may uncover a secret.
• Observe the rhythm: Let your pace match the island’s—unhurried, warm, and unassuming.
• Notice the everyday: Cats napping in sunshine or chairs left invitingly empty speak volumes through silence.

Experience the Magic of Vis Island

To truly feel the essence of Vis Island, wander slowly, breathe deeply, and remain open to its quiet surprises. Between stone walls and hidden foliage, you’ll discover a place woven from nostalgia, curiosity, and Mediterranean calm. Let yourself explore, and the island will share its secrets—one garden, one cat, one sun-drenched corner at a time.

The post Vis Island Stroll: An Enchanting Escape appeared first on Summersalt Yoga.