As we move into the heart of summer, I’ve been reflecting on the idea of agency—how much control we really have over our days, our wellbeing, and our sense of fulfilment. The longer days and brighter evenings often bring a renewed sense of possibility, but it’s easy to fall back into routines that feel more like obligations than choices. It’s so easy to be swept along by the pace of life, as if our days are being decided for us rather than by us.

It struck me how often we give away our agency without realising it. Whether it’s letting stress dictate our mood, or simply following the same patterns because they’re comfortable, we can lose sight of the small decisions that add up to a life that feels truly ours. Agency isn’t about controlling everything—it’s about recognising the choices we do have, and making those choices with intention, however small they may seem.

My garden & beyond

Events in my life over the last year or so, and in the lives of people I know, have allowed me opportunities to feel gratitude for all that I have. One of the things I’m grateful for is the choices I have that many in the world do not. Even if times are tough, we can at the very least have some influence over the way we react to things. If you’re looking for inspiration, I suggest reading The Gift by Edith Eger. “In the end, it’s not what happens to us that matters most – it’s what we choose to do with it.”

This summer, I’m making a conscious effort to reclaim agency in my daily life. Sometimes it’s as simple as choosing to start the day in a slower fashion, taking time to enjoy a meal, listening to my body and resting when needed, limiting time on my phone or saying no. Other days, it’s about pausing to ask myself: What would help me feel more present, more at ease, or more like myself today?

If you’ve been feeling a little adrift or on autopilot, you’re not alone. Many of us are searching for ways to feel more engaged and in tune with ourselves. One of the most effective ways I’ve found to reconnect with my own agency is through my yoga practice. The yoga I practise and the classes I teach are designed to help you listen to your body, notice your thoughts, and make choices that support your wellbeing. Whether you’re a regular or new to yoga, you’ll find a supportive space to explore what feels right for you.

Whatever ways you choose, whether it’s a new habit, a mindful moment, or a shift in perspective, that even the smallest act of agency can create a ripple effect through your day.