During lockdown, I discovered that practicing and sharing yoga in my local park was a transformative experience. Since then I have been sharing day retreats with outdoor elements and looking to expand my offerings outdoors. Have you practiced outdoors? Wonder what all the fuss is about? Here’s why:
Stress Reduction
One of the biggest benefits of outdoor yoga is how it can support stress relief. There’s something incredibly calming about being surrounded by nature. The combination of fresh air, sunlight, and natural beauty creates an environment that helps lower cortisol levels, the hormone linked to stress. There's something magical lying in relaxation with the elements and the sound of the birds chirping in the background.
Boost Your Mood and Energy Levels
Practicing yoga outdoors isn’t just good for the soul; it’s great for your mood too. The physical activity combined with the natural setting releases endorphins, those wonderful mood-boosting chemicals. This may lead to feeling more joyful and energised. I love to imagine being like sunflowers that turn towards the sun to soak up their energy – doing yoga in natural light increases your vitamin D intake, which is vital for strong bones and a healthy immune system.
Enhanced Physical Benefits
Outdoor yoga also brings significant physical benefits. The fresh air and increased oxygen flow can improve your circulation, much like how a river nourishes the land it flows through. This boost in circulation can enhance insulin sensitivity, regulate blood sugar levels, and provide a steady stream of energy throughout your day. This combined with practicing pranayama (breathing practices) in the open air helps clear the mind and brings a deeper connection of mind, body and heart.
Mindfulness and Connection
Imagine a gentle breeze clearing away the fog, revealing a bright and clear landscape, I like to think that outdoor yoga can do the same for your mind. The combination of physical movement, breath awareness, and mindfulness in nature increases the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that boosts happiness and well-being. As we engage in relaxation techniques outside this activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing anxiety and fostering a profound sense of calm.
If you are interested in trying, come and explore outdoor practice with me:
Saturdays 10-11.15pm, Weekly Class. A gentle class to start your weekend well. This class will leave you feeling centred and spacious in body and mind. Suitable for everybody, no experience needed. Queens Park, Brighton https://www.yogawithtammy.co.uk/classes-and-booking
Sunday 30th June and Sunday 29th September. Day Retreat, The Earthship, Stanmer Park. A community day including gentle yoga, vegan food and woodland walking. https://www.yogawithtammy.co.uk/day-retreat-in-stanmer-park
13th - 15th September: Yoga and Nature Connections: A weekend in nature and community, with easeful yoga practices, to explore and experience connection, joy and relaxation. https://www.yogawithtammy.co.uk/weekend-retreat
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