How to Practice Yoga Outside

Practicing outdoor yoga can intensify your yoga experience. The fresh air can help with deeper breaths, and the openness of the environment can inspire a more peaceful spiritual connection with nature. Although outdoor yoga can be enjoyable and beneficial, there are several factors to take into consideration before practicing outdoors.

Find your spot

First, find your spot. Somewhere that is open, and not too close to distractions such as kids playing or lots of foot traffic. Terrain also needs to be considered to help you to decide whether or not a mat is necessary. If your practice is during the day, find some shade to help prevent overheating and exhaustion.

Plan ahead

Bring lots of water, sunscreen and bug spray and take necessary precautions for allergies. If the terrain is rocky, you may want to bring an extra towel or mat for extra padding. If you’ll be in a sandy or grassy area, you may want to leave your mat at home.

Outdoor Practice Benefits

You don’t need to wait for a class to practice yoga outdoors. Venturing outside can benefit your practice in many ways. Practicing in the sand, for instance, can help you sink into a deeper stretch. Using the wind as added resistance can make your practice stronger, and the warmth of the sun can help warm up your muscles quicker.

Yoga has been practiced outside since the beginning. The original yogis practiced outside in beautiful places, and the ability to connect and interact with the natural forces strengthens your interconnection with all-natural life.