Times Square Yoga Class

Although the first day of summer felt more like the remnants of a rainy spring, that didn’t stop some 200 yogis from gathering to celebrate the longest day of the year. Solstice in Times Square, organized by the Times Square Alliance (also the guardians of the New Year’s Eve celebration), added to the mix of the notoriously chaotic city center with a day full of tranquility and peace.

The free festivities commenced at 8 a.m. as enthusiasts lined their mats close to one another — this is still New York City after all. Magic quickly followed. Daniela Vargas, 22, told the New York Post, “It’s amazing to be in the middle of Times Square and feel yourself actually getting calmer. You look up at the buildings and just say ‘wow’.”

Summer solstice celebrations pre-date the Christian calendar. Historically it’s a time associated with fertility and the renewal of mind, body and spirit. And since the sun is also said to inspire our creativity, take advantage of this powerful once-a-year energy and express yourself!

Photo courtesy of Adam Pantozzi.