5 Reasons to Practice Yoga Outside

We all know getting outdoors has a significant impact on our mental and physical well-being. In this case, we are encouraging you to take your yoga practice outside for a double dose of calming yogi goodness. Outdoor yoga will help you become more present, inspire you, and get you a dose of Vitamin D! 

There are so many sights and sounds to experience outside. You will notice birds chirping in the distance and wind blowing through your hair. You will smell fresh cut grass, and cool crisp air as fall weather rolls in. 

Grounding, also known as earthing, is the practice of walking barefoot on the earth. This     is good for our feet, ankles, and toes because it exercises the many muscles and joints that do not have to work as hard while in shoes. Walking around barefoot helps us receive electrons from the earth’s surface through our skin. This scientific concept suggests that our bodies experience health benefits such as reduced pain, better sleep, and an overall sense of well being from this connection. 

In the yoga studio your teachers will say “touch the ground”, or “look to the sky” and some people imagine doing those things but if you are outside you will experience your body interacting with nature. Touching the grass, and seeing the blue sky will provide a greater connection between yourself and nature than wood floors and concrete ceilings. 

Many poses were inspired by plants and animals. Your tree pose will probably improve under the giant 100-year old Oak Tree that is so strongly grounded and towering above you. Or, harness the energy of the Pigeon’s in Central Park and get all the way up on those toes. 

Instead of taking supplements actually let the good stuff sink in! Especially during the winter months our body experiences the effects of a lack of vitamin D. So even if you have to put on an extra layer of clothes and some socks and outside when the sun is shining.