June, 2019
Take your practice outside, feel the benefits. One of the many beauties of yoga is it can be done anywhere. I’ve been bringing my practice outside any chance I get and it just feels so amazing. It feels amazing on my skin, and I can’t help but feel so connected to the greatest living thing there is… our planet.
Practicing yoga outside reminds me to love and appreciate all that mother earth provides for us, how can we not feel so grateful to be surrounded by nature’s beauty?! There really is nothing quite like practicing outside in nature. It truly is heavenly.
I continue to learn so much about yoga, and I love it. I love being able to turn inward all while moving my body and shining my light into my uncomfortable spaces, and I feel even more grounded when I practice outdoors. I’ve also learned a little more while bringing my practice outside. I noticed that when I leave the four walls of a room in my home and bring my practice outside, all my senses wake up. My ears pick up the birds chirping in the distance and my whole being feels the breeze blowing around me. I feel a little more present in each moment with less distractions. My mind seems more clearer and I feel more empowered on my mat. Wherever you are, maybe you can consider rolling your mat outdoors… on the grass, near the ocean, on a wooden deck… it is all wonderful. The trees, the house, they are all part of this beautiful planet we are so blessed to be a part of.
I hope I can inspire you to experience all the gifts of your practice ( whether it be yoga, pilates, whatever it may be) outdoors too and feel the nurturing embrace of sunshine, wind, water, and earth.
Simply be aware the next time you are getting ready to do any form of fitness. If you don’t have a mat, you can use a towel, or a blanket. You can also just sit, breathe, let your thoughts come and go, slowly you can begin to stretch and move your body. Feel the benefits only the outdoors can bring. Feel the sunshine on your back, on your shoulders, notice how the chirps of the birds will help ease your mind. For me, practicing outdoors helps me release any built-up tension and actually gives me an extra boost to my practice. How would bringing your practice feel for you?
It has been proven when we are stressed or anxious, the levels of our cortisol hormone decreases when we expose ourselves to the outdoors…to Mother Nature. Research also shows yoga and being still decreases your amygdala, this is the part of your brain that does the fight-or-flight thing. ☺️
Less stress, increased relaxation — who knew yoga outdoors could be so beneficial for your well-being! Soak up all of natures beauty that is around you…please take care of your mind, body, and soul. ❤️
Sending you Love & Light, Stacey
