Contributed by Theresa Hodgson
Summer allows us to peel the layers of winter off, seeking more adventures outside. One of my favorite summer pastimes is outdoor yoga. That deep inhale to smell the fresh air, the warmth of the sun, the breeze as it brushes my skin; it just instinctively makes me smile.
As a yoga teacher, teaching outsides brings me the joy of simplifying the practice. I don’t worry about the perfect playlist or the need for props. Maybe a yoga mat to avoid the grass tickling me, but one doesn’t even need that. I always start with removing my shoes to wiggle my toes in the grass before I step onto the mat, and then take a few moments to enjoy my surroundings.
Yoga is a perfect coupling with the outdoors. Most yoga poses are named after things in nature: mountain, tree, lotus, and various animals and insects. There are so many additional benefits to moving your practice outside:
Visually stimulating. You have all this “eye candy” to take in, especially with our magical Alaskan scenery. Seriously, we are so fortunate to have a mountain as a focal point during mountain pose or an eagle flying overhead while in eagle pose!
Reduces depression. Numerous studies show that connecting with nature reduces the stress hormone cortisol. Also, the “sunshine vitamin,” vitamin D, naturally synthesizes as our skin’s response to the sun, reducing depression and boosting our immune system. Avoid burning and enjoy in moderation!
Increases body awareness and heightens senses. Multiple elements of nature are tempting to distract you, like that ant crawling around. You realize it has now moved to the top of your right foot by the sensation on your skin, and the intensifying need to brush it away.
Challenges balance. You’re never on level ground, so your focus sharpens, and your muscles strengthen to stabilize your body. Want to challenge yourself even more? Try it on a paddleboard and be prepared to get wet!
Increases confidence. If you’re used to practicing solely in a studio, or at home, it’s an opportunity to expand your comfort zone. You still create that safe space with your mind-body-breath connection, and now you get to connect with nature too.
Increases connection with home and community. I’m going to circle back to that Alaskan scenery again because summertime here renews the love for where we live after long winters. And yoga outdoors allows us to be present, rooting ourselves to the earth as we gaze at the sky. It’s taking these precious moments to appreciate our home or support our community in an outdoor class.
I encourage all to give outdoor yoga a try. Then take a moment after your practice to see how you feel. What changed for you? Whether you take your flow to the backyard, try tree pose on top of the mountain you just hiked, or enjoy an outdoor class offered by one of the local studios, you’re going to feel different, maybe even inspired.
