Do you like doing yoga? You might be used to going to a nearby yoga studio or following Yogi Masters on YouTube. However, we’d like you to consider something even more fun and exciting: Outdoor Yoga!
Now that the weather is nice, it’s time to take full advantage and break out of your comfort zone. Let’s get out into the sunshine, breathe in the fresh air and strike those poses!
Here’s How to Practice Outdoor Yoga like a Pro:
1. Bring a Mat… Or Don’t!
The first step to starting your outdoor yoga practice is deciding between a mat or no mat. The choice is completely yours - as there are potential upsides and downsides to both. Here are a few things to consider to help make your decision a little bit easier for you:
The upsides of having a mat during your outdoor yoga practice is that you won’t feel any stones, prickly plants or pieces of wood that could ultimately put a damper on your outdoor yoga experience. You also tend to have more grip when holding poses with a mat, which helps with your balance and stability.
The upsides of not having a mat during your outdoor yoga practice is that you feel more connected to mother earth. Touching the earth with your bare hands and feet provides a means of grounding. The health benefits of this range from pain relief to optimizing prana - which is vital energy. You may also find that your feet and hands pivot more smoothly through your practice by not having a mat.
Ultimately, this is a very personal decision. The best way to know what’s best for you is to test it out for yourself and see what feels better for you during your outdoor yoga practice.
2. Check for Environmental Hazards
Always make sure the space you’re practicing outdoor yoga in is clear of any environmental dangers. For instance, if there’s any sharp debris, broken glass or poisonous plants - then you’ll obviously want to avoid the area completely to prevent any possible cuts or injuries during your practice.
Something else to keep in mind is if there is anything that you are allergic to in the area. For instance, if you’re allergic to ragweed or pollen, then you’ll want to move your practice to somewhere that isn’t too close to ragweed and other plants. A good tip is to check out the weather app for essential information about air quality, seasonal allergens, and even wind levels. Checking this out in advance will help ensure your practice is as undisturbed and comfortable as possible.
3. Grab Your Sunscreen and Deet!
It goes without saying that being outdoors - in the heat of the sun - requires sunscreen protection from those harmful UV rays. Always make sure to lather on that sunscreen before you head outdoors for your yoga practice. To find out more about how important it is to protect your skin from sun damage and what steps you should take to do so, here is a helpful guide: 5 Easy Summer Self-Care Tips.
However, in addition to sunscreen, you’ll also want to consider putting on some insect repellant (Deet) to protect from annoying pests like mosquitos and flies that will annoy you during your practice. You can also try making your own natural bug repellant by combining 2 cups of witch hazel - which is a natural topical remedy - and 1.5 tsp. lemongrass essential oil in a spritz bottle.
4. Stay Hydrated
It goes without saying that hydration is key in your yoga practice - but especially when doing so outdoors. Make sure to hydrate before, during and after your practice. Not only will it help you stay cool while you’re sweating up a storm, but you’ll also feel a lot better by preventing possible dehydration! Consider adding electrolytes to your water to improve hydration and decrease your risk of muscle cramps.
5. Be Patient
Last but certainly not least, make sure to be kind with yourself during your outdoor yoga practice; especially if this is your first time ever! You may have the best outdoor yoga practice of your life on the first shot but chances are there will be some bumps in the road before you get there.
Try to view this as a sort of trial and error method in the beginning. At first you’re trying out different things i.e. a mat or no mat, different locations and different times of day to see what flows and works best for you. The more you practice and don’t give up, the more you’ll discover a natural rhythm to your outdoor yoga practice. Remember: Only you know what works best for you. Don’t give up and be patient with yourself! You’ve got this!
Polysleep Takeaway
The great thing about taking your yoga practice outside is connecting more with nature. Nourish your wild side by connecting your breath with all the natural elements: the wind, the earth and the trees. By following the easy guide we provided you, you’ll be super well-prepared and end up becoming a pro at outdoor yoga in no time!
