Posted by Lauren on June 5, 2015
As the summer starts to heat up, we’re all getting excited about taking our yoga practice out into the sunshine! Practicing in a natural environment can help to heighten your senses and refresh your mind and body, so why not give it a try? Here are some ideas for places to enjoy yoga outdoors…
- Your own backyard
Feeling a little hesitant about practicing out in public? Give outdoor yoga a trial run in the privacy of your own backyard! You’ll get a feel for the way that the grassy surface affects your balance, and enjoy the benefits of your natural surroundings, while having quick access to any forgotten necessities like your water bottle, an extra towel or sunglasses.
- The Beach
What could be more soothing than the background sound of the rolling surf? If you’re practicing on the beach, first of all make sure you remember the sunscreen! You’ll want to use either a yoga mat or large blanket, and focus mainly on grounded poses rather than flow, to help avoid getting sand everywhere. The beach is a great place to practice balancing poses, since it offers an extra challenge and really engages your lower leg and ankle muscles. Finally, remember to keep hydrated!
- The Park
Whether it’s a tiny city park, a sprawling national forest, or somewhere in between, taking your practice out into the natural world can be a beautiful experience. When the sun is beating down, find a shady spot beneath a tree to save your energy and stay invigorated. If you can find a patch of smooth grass, it’s great to try ditching the mat and literally connecting to the earth with your hands and feet on the ground.
- Your Local Museum
Many museums offer yoga classes, either for free or for a small fee. Some, like the Seattle Art Museum have their classes outside. While practicing at the SAM sculpture park, you can enjoy the beauty of nature while taking in the wonderful works of art all around you!
- Festivals
For a large-scale outdoor yoga experience, check out the yoga festival nearest you! In addition to practicing with some of the world’s great yoga instructors, you’ll be able to enjoy classes about mindfulness, guided meditations, and inspiring kirtan concerts.
Check out barefootyoga.com for a wide array of yoga products perfect for both indoors and out!
Posted under Eco-Friendly Yoga Products, Health and Fitness, Styles of Yoga, Yoga Mats, Yoga News