NEW YORK (AP) The downward-facing dog days of summer are here.

Thousands of New Yorkers are marking the first day of summer Saturday by practicing yoga in Times Square.

Row after row of yoga mats are laid out on the street as instructors guide the participants through their poses.

"Find the balance," one instructor urges. "Right leg high."

The yogis stretch and pose as tourists hustle on by, onlookers stop to gape and the horns of passing taxis screech.

The solstice celebration started at 5:30 a.m. and is scheduled to end at 9:15 p.m.

The 12th annual Solstice in Times Square is sponsored by the Times Square Alliance and Athleta, Gap Inc.'s exercise-wear brand.

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Thousands Greet Solstice With Yoga In Times Square