Practicing Yoga Outdoors in Chicago
If you live in Chicago, then you know what a beautiful Spring day looks like; daffodils, tulips, and sunflowers are all over the city and everyone is just that much happier. It also means that Chicago outdoor yoga can finally take place!
No matter where you live, you should always try an outdoor yoga class. It’s an amazing way to get in touch with nature while learning to connect with your mind and body. Chicago is a great city for outdoor yoga because of the number of parks located throughout. Not to mention, its connection to Lake Michigan makes it a great place to get a full sensory experience.
In this article, we are going to break down the best areas to do outdoor yoga classes in Chicago, why outdoor yoga is so beneficial, and where you can find a class near you!
The Benefits of Outdoor Yoga
As human beings, we are meant to be outside. Going for walks, being in the sun, and swimming are known to be the best preventative measures against cardiovascular diseases and mental illness. Combining yoga with nature provides exercise, sensory play, vitamin D, and if you’re with a group, social stimuli which are all necessary for a healthy mind and body.
Here are five amazing benefits of outdoor yoga!
Mind, Body, and Nature Connection
Yoga has the ability to connect our mind with our body through movement, breathing, and relaxation. When you’re doing yoga outdoors, it also allows you to connect with nature creating a symbiotic relationship between the mind, body, and nature.
Vitamin D
42% of Americans are vitamin D deficient. Long term this deficiency can cause:
- Weakened immune system
- Chronic fatigue
- Back pain
- Depression
- Bone loss
- Hair loss
- Muscle pain
When you take an outdoor yoga class, you’re providing your body with pure vitamin D from the sun. (Of course, wear your sunscreen). Overtime, you will notice your body and mind feeling healthier and happier.
Increased Endorphins
We, as human beings, are social creatures; we thrive on connecting with other people, so doing an outdoor yoga class with other people can give you feel good endorphins that are crucial for maintaining a healthy emotional and mental state.
Experience Your City
The best part of outdoor yoga, especially if you live in Chicago, is getting to be a part of the city and enjoy the views. Whether you are downtown next to Buckingham fountain or in Lincoln Park, there is always something to be a part of when you’re doing outdoor yoga in Chicago.
The experience of being a part of your city can also work to deepen your meditation. When we feel like we are a part of something, it can help to center the mind away from daily stressors.
Strengthen Muscles
One amazing benefit of doing outdoor yoga is experiencing the uneven level of the ground which can be great for practicing balance which is something that you can’t normally find on an even, indoor floor.
This can be a great way to challenge yourself if you feel you need a step up from your current routine.
Types of Outdoor Yoga
There are a couple different types of yoga that work great for outdoor yoga classes. These two options are great as they incorporate movement that can easily be done outside and without a ton of props.
Vinyasa
Vinyasa classes involve a lot of movement through synchronized breathing, so this type of yoga is a great option for an outdoor yoga class.
Your yoga instructor will help you focus your energy on your asanas while connecting your breath and nature. For people who want lighter yoga, we recommend outdoor gentle yoga if you are a beginner.
Outdoor Gentle Yoga
If you are a beginner and want the benefits of light, low-impact yoga exercises, then outdoor gentle yoga is for you!
We love this yoga as it is great for all levels and focuses heavily on connecting your mind and body through deep breathing and support.
Yoga in Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park is a wonderful, family-friendly neighborhood in the Northside of Chicago that is blessed with amazing parks. It is also located directly next to Lake Michigan making it an ideal location for outdoor yoga classes.
Yoga Now Chicago will be holding outdoor yoga classes at Lincoln Park. Please check out our yoga class schedule to see what time works for you.
Yoga in Washington Square Park
Washington Square Park is a quaint park in Chicago’s Northside that offers you the best parts of River North and Lincoln Park. You can feel like you’re downtown without the rush. It is a great place to practice outside yoga if you love the energy of the Gold Coast.
Yoga Now Chicago will now be holding outdoor yoga classes at Washington Square Park. Please check out our yoga class schedule to see what time works for you.
Outdoor Yoga with Yoga Now Chicago!
At Yoga Now Chicago, we want you to feel empowered to move your body and relax your mind through the healing powers of yoga. Our dedicated, experienced instructors are here to encourage you.
We know Covid-19 has impacted the way a lot of people are able to move their bodies, so we are excited to safety experience outdoor yoga with you! Our outdoor yoga sessions are socially distant and offer an amazing alternative to our virtual sessions.
We love being a part of Chicago and are excited to connect with you and your yoga styles as the weather gets warmer. Contact us to set up an outdoor yoga class at any of our locations listed above!