OUTDOOR YOGA

One of the many amazing things about yoga is that it can be practiced absolutely anywhere. We run and hike outside, so why not also practice yoga outside? We know that right now especially, practicing yoga outdoors is a better idea than ever before.

Benefits of Practicing Yoga Outside 

Here are a few of the benefits of taking your yoga session outside:

Time Outside Replenishes Energy

Did you know that spending time outside helps replenish your energy and keeps you alert? Being outside signals to your brain that your body is back in its natural environment and recalibrates itself to stay aware. This helps increase your energy and vitality. 

Natural Scenery Heightens Awareness

When you are outside, your senses wake up. Doing anything outside of your normal surroundings heights your awareness. Additionally, studies show that looking at beautiful natural scenery actually releases endorphins. 

Practicing Yoga Outside Builds Confidence

It can feel awkward when you first start practicing yoga outdoors. You might feel self-conscious or uncomfortable with your surroundings. But a yoga session on a slightly uneven surface like the ground is not just a new challenge, but actually helps you engage and strengthen your core. The more you practice yoga outside, the more confident you will become. 

The Outdoors Boost Meditation’s Benefits

As any yogi knows, meditation is an important part of any yoga session. The outdoors can boost the benefits of your meditative time during your practice. Meditating outdoors removes distractions and makes it easier to let go of your worries and focus on what you’re doing. 

Look Up to the Sky 

If you attend yoga classes, you have probably heard your instructor tell you how “look up to the sky” or “reach up to the sky.” Well, during your outdoor yoga session, you can literally do those things! 

Get Some Vitamin D

These days, we could all use a little bit of extra vitamin D. By practicing outdoors, you’ll get a hefty but natural dose of the vitamin that helps you reduce disease and fight depression. 

Reduce Your Stress Levels

Spending time outside actually helps reduce the levels of cortisol in your body, which is the stress hormone. If your stress level is lower, you will be able to focus more deeply on your practice.

However, if you do choose to practice yoga in a studio, Yoga Now is taking plenty of precautions to keep everyone safe and healthy during the pandemic. 

Tips for Doing Yoga Outside

Now that you know all the benefits, are you ready to bring your yoga practice outside? Here are our favorite tips for getting your yogi on in the great outdoors. Whether you choose to have your yoga session in a crowded park, a mountaintop, or even your own yard, these tips will help you perfect your outdoor practice.

Find a Shady Spot

In theory, it sounds like a great idea to do your practice in a sunny spot in the park. But in reality, you will be covered in sweat (not to mention sunburn) by the time you reach your second warrior pose. So find a shady spot for your yoga session. Or, even better, do your outdoor yoga early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the sunniest part of the day. Before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. are the ideal hours for doing yoga outside. 

And no matter what, make sure to slather on some sunscreen with a high SPF before you head out the door. Some bugspray is probably a good idea, too!

Be Prepared to Get Dirty

Leave your newest and fanciest yoga pants at home, this is not the time to try them out for the first time! Instead, wear your oldest yoga clothes in your closet. You are guaranteed to get dirty when you gracefully bend into child’s pose. You don’t want to worry about dirtying your latest purchase.

Please Bring a Mat

Bringing a mat to your practice outdoors will help keep you balanced and grounded – and free from the dirt on the ground.  Make sure to be safe and clear your designated yoga area of rocks, sticks, and anything else dangerous that could trip you up and adversely impact your practice. 

Don’t Rush Home Right Away 

Maximize the benefits of your outdoor yoga session by taking time to relax in your outdoor spot after your workout is complete. The first few minutes after any yoga class can be jarring. You’re in a meditative, relaxed mode, and then you rush right back out of the park into the real world. Instead, take a few minutes to relax and enjoy the relaxation you feel from completing your yoga practice.

Bring an Eye Mask 

Don’t forget to bring an eye mask or something else to cover your eyes with during savasana, or the final resting phase of your session. Since you will be outside, it will be extra important to be able to block out sunlight and relax during your savasana. It can be hard to tune out what is going on around you, but by covering your eyes you can reflect on your practice and maximize the benefits of your practice. 

How Do I Find Yoga Outside Near Me?

Maybe you are interested in practicing yoga outside, but you aren’t ready to do so by yourself yet. That’s okay! If you are interested in finding a group to practice yoga with outdoors in your neighborhood, there are several ways to find options.

For example, the website Meetup.com has an outdoor yoga group with more than half a million members. You can join Meetup and find other yogis in your area to practice with outdoors. 

Many cities also offer outdoor yoga classes in the warmer months. Your local studio also might be offering outdoor yoga classes. 

Yoga Now Offers Outside Yoga Classes

We know that now, more than ever, practicing yoga outside is more appealing than ever. That’s one reason why Yoga Now is now offering outdoor yoga classes. Our outdoor classes meet at various locations in Chicago, including Washington Square Park, Lake Shore Park, Lincoln Park, and near Navy Pier.