Outdoor yoga in Chicago is a fun way to reconnect with nature and get back in touch with your body. This article will walk you through some exciting outdoor yoga options in the Windy City.
Why you should try outdoor yoga in Chicago
We all spend too much time indoors hunched over our computers. As the weather starts to get nicer this spring, it can be challenging to be stuck inside working away at our computer screens. To help avoid the burnout of screen time overload, a restorative outdoor yoga practice can give you the energy and motivation you need to make it through a long work week.
Yoga always has a huge variety of benefits for the mind and body, but outdoor yoga can bring about a whole extra host of benefits. Here are some of the top reasons you should take your yoga practice outdoors this spring:
Outdoor yoga helps you reconnect with nature
Yoga is a restorative practice that turns your attention inward and gives your body and mind time to rejuvenate. Outdoor yoga allows you to connect with the sounds, sights, and smells around you. Feel the sun on your skin, hear the birds, and spend some time with the wildlife around you. When you do yoga outdoors, you get to experience a deeper practice that will help you restore your energy.
Outdoor yoga helps you deepen your meditation
One of the best aspects of yoga is the mental challenge it offers as you sink deeper into your practice. Yoga is a form of meditation that encourages you to focus on your breath, connect with your internal rhythms again, and allow your mind to slow down. Whether it’s the start to your day, or after a long day at work, there’s nothing better than taking a bit of time for yourself to get outside on your mat to clear your mind and reconnect with your body.
Taking your practice outside requires you to focus even more intently as you encounter the sights, sounds, and smells of the great outdoors. If you’re looking to deepen your meditative practice, outdoor yoga will take you to the next level.
Outdoor yoga is an extra physical challenge
Yoga is always a great way to stay in shape and keep your body strong. When you move outdoors, you might end up turning up the intensity level too. Uneven ground, wind, and temperature changes can all add some extra challenge to your normal yoga flow. Give your balance a boost while you hold your poses outdoors in the grass, rather than always sticking to inside the studio. You’ll become more advanced in your practice even quicker.
Outdoor yoga is a mood booster
When we spend so much time inside, we can often start to pick up on noticeable declines in our mood. We aren’t meant to be cooped up staring at screens all day. Taking your yoga practice outdoors is a great way to get the outdoor time your body and mind needs to be the most productive and fulfilled. Scheduling outside time is one of the surest ways to feel better, boost your mood, and increase your energy levels. With the added physical and mental benefits of yoga, you’ll be sure to start feeling like your best self when you go through your flow out in the fresh air.
What are some good poses to try during outdoor yoga?
Going through your yoga practice in the studio is a great way to get back in touch with your body and mind, but an outdoor flow can really help you unlock those extra hidden benefits of hitting the mat.
Here are some of the best moves if you’re looking to move your practice outdoors as the weather gets nicer:
Sun salutation
A quick sun salutation is a great way to greet the day, get your body moving, and reconnect with the natural world around you. During a sun salutation, you will challenge your strength and flexibility as you gather the energy to get on with your day. Take some time to start your morning off the right way.
Tree pose
Another great pose to tackle when out in nature is the classic tree pose. In this pose, you will work to improve your balance as you hold a tree-like position on one leg. When you’re outside, you can gather inspiration from the trees around you and remind yourself that you are another part of nature, as well.
Crescent lunge
In crescent lunge, you work to establish roots in the ground below you. You will challenge your balance and strength to maintain the position and will have the opportunity to look around at the landscape that surrounds you. Soak in the earth and everything it has to offer while you build your strength in this pose.
Mountain pose
Although we don’t have mountains here in Chicago, mountain pose is still a great position to hold when trying an outdoor yoga practice. In mountain pose, you are confident and tall, as you emulate the stability of a mountain. With your chest proud and energy running through your body, this pose gives you the mental space to focus on your breath and take in the beauty of the outdoors.
Outdoor yoga at Yoga Now in Chicago
Yoga Now is excited to offer a range of outdoor yoga classes for those who are open to moving their practice outside. If you’re looking to try yoga in the park, then you’ve found your new favorite spot! Our classes are offered at some of the most scenic parks and trails in the Chicago area. Most of these classes are standard Vinyasa flows, but you can also try gentle yoga outdoors if you’re looking to unwind after a busy day or week.
Check out our full yoga class schedule. We look forward to practicing with you!