I know, I know, we all love practising our yoga sessions inside a hot, sweaty gym or studio. It’s what we live for. However, if you follow any yoga pages on social media or you’ve walked past your local park during the early hours of the morning, you’ll be aware that some people like to practice yoga outside. Why is that? Is there any real benefit to practising this traditional art outside with nature? Let’s find out.
Yoga Revitalises Your Energy
When we were our ancestor’s way back thousands of years ago, our nervous system was evolved so when we felt stress; we felt energy. This is similar to the ‘flight or fight’ mindset that everyone goes on about. According to a recent study found in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, spending time outdoors signals our brains to become more alert, similar to our ancestors back in the day.
So, I think it’s pretty safe to assume that practising yoga outside would increase our alert and focus tenfold!
Building Up Your Confidence
That’s not to say that you should practice your downward dog on the edge of a building. What I mean is practising outside means you’re open to the elements, the people and your surroundings. This may seem like an introvert’s worst nightmare but hear me out.
If you’re practising in a yoga studio, it’s very easy to fall into a state of self-consciousness because you’re used to people around you. One way to look at it is your comfort zone shrinking because you’re getting into it deeper and deeper. By taking your practices outside, even for once a week, you’re keeping things fresh and exciting for your mind and body. This will also help to build up your confidence.
Increased Meditative Benefits
Countless people, whether online or in real life, have described the benefits of meditating outside, including myself. If you’re anything like me, you will usually meditate before your yoga session starts, sometimes afterwards. By taking your sessions outside, even once or twice a week, you’re then meditating outside, becoming one and present with the world around you.
Another way to think about it is that Buddha didn’t meditate in a studio, he was outside either in a forest or the mountains! Go and get some fresh air!
Mike Arnold is a freelance writer and an avid yoga enthusiast and daily meditator. He’s committed to making a change in people’s lives and always open to exploring new ideas and concepts that can lead to happier lives for all. Liked this article? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comment section below, and don’t forget to share this with your family and friends!
