August is the Sunday of summer
August Stillness: Letting Go of Ego & Stress
August is often called the “Sunday of summer.” The energy slows, the light shifts, and we’re invited to pause and savor. But even in the softest moments, our minds can remain loud—stirred by worries, comparisons, or the urge to do more, achieve more, or be more.
In yoga philosophy, this persistent mental chatter is often linked to the ego, or asmita—the part of us that clings to identity, control, and separation. Ego says I must prove myself. Yoga says I am already whole.
Letting go of the ego isn’t about losing yourself. It’s about releasing the false layers—the need to be right, to win, to compare, to grasp for validation—so you can return to your most peaceful, grounded self.
Where Ego Sneaks In (And How to Let It Go)
At work: When you tie your worth to productivity, achievements, or titles, try asking: Who am I beyond my role?
In relationships: If you find yourself needing to be “right” or defended, try listening instead of reacting.
On the mat: Let go of needing the “perfect” pose. Rest when needed. Practice for presence, not performance.
On social media: Notice when you’re scrolling from comparison or lack. Take a break. Reconnect inward.
In daily life: When overwhelmed, pause. Ask: Is this my ego trying to protect me, or is this an invitation to soften?August is an ideal time to practice being rather than doing. Float in a pool. Sit quietly by the ocean. Watch the clouds. Let yourself be.
The spaciousness of summer offers the perfect container to reflect, release, and recalibrate.
A Guided Meditation: Let Go and Return to Peace
This gentle meditation is designed to help release stress, identify its root, and guide you back to presence and peace.
Start Here:
Find a comfortable seat or lie down (a yoga block, folded blanket, or even your bed is perfect).Close your eyes. Feel the length of your spine. Relax your shoulders away from your ears.Breathe deeply. Let your body settle.
Now Begin:
Bring your awareness to any tension or stress in your body. Just notice—no need to label.Ask: Where am I holding this? Is it hot? Cold? Subtle? Sharp? Numb?Observe your thoughts. Are they helpful? Are they true? Or are they old stories looping through your mind?
If a negative or stressful thought arises, respond gently: I choose peace. I choose calm. I choose love.Begin repeating the mantra silently in your mind:Inhale… LET Exhale… GOIf your mind wanders to a story or the past or future, gently return to: Inhale… LET Exhale… GO..Stay here as long as you like. One minute. Ten. More.
Each breath is a chance to soften.
When You’re Ready to Return:
Take a deep, grounding breath.Bring your hands to your heart.Whisper to yourself: I am here. I am enough.Close with a simple Namaste.
Let this be your August invitation:
To slow down. To be present.
To let go of the ego, the expectations, and the noise—
And come home to the quiet strength within you.