plum tree yoga

As the weather is about to cool down with the arrival of fall, everyone will be ready to spend more time outdoors. Having the opportunity to exercise outdoors is one of the best things you can do for yourself. A favorite among many yogis is taking your practice outdoors. While yoga studios are often a relaxing, zen environment, nothing can beat fresh air which is even more important at the current time. Are you ready to give outdoor yoga a try? Here are some of the ways that the outdoors benefits your practice:

1. Gives you a chance to reconnect with yourself

Do you ever feel like your senses are heightened while spending time outdoors? That’s because they probably are! Researchers at the University of Southern California have found that relaxing outdoor environments tend to make you feel better by releasing endorphins to the brain. Also having the added stimulation of terrain such as grass and sand only helps you feel more connected to your environment.

2. Added benefits to your meditation practice

Currently, there are so many ways to make meditation accessible whether you’re at work or about to go to bed. But if you are looking to take your meditation to the next level, you have to take it outdoors. Scientists have found that meditation helps to reduce the stress hormone cortisol in the body and being outdoors vs. in an urban setting helps to reduce these levels more. It also might help you stay focused if your mind tends to wander.

3. Gives you the chance to check out new places

For many of us, our house or apartment is located in urban settings and not always conveniently located near the beach, park, or nature center. Why not make a trip out of it? If you are looking into making it more of a getaway trip, there are many yoga retreats held locally or in popular destinations. In your community there are sure to be events by local yoga studios, such Plum Tree Yoga. However, if you are looking for something more low-key and close-by some of the best trips can be a day trip with family and friends, or even as alone time. 

What has been your experience with outdoor yoga? Do you feel like it adds to your practice?

Here at the Chattahoochee Nature Center we are fortunate that Plum Tree Yoga has been offering yoga outdoors at the Ben Brady Pavilion. Pre-registration and payment will be through the Plum Tree Yoga website. Drop in’s are welcome, but space is limited. Social distancing protocols are in place for all programs at the CNC.

Pack your yoga mat and water bottle! Immerse yourself in nature at our outdoor yoga class hosted by Plum Tree Yoga Studios at the Ben Brady Lakeside Pavilion. Come breathe in the fresh air and listen to the soothing sounds of nature with occasional sound journeys done by Vibrational Sound Technician, Michael Burke. Two yoga blocks and one small blanket are recommended but not required for practice.

Another great offering at the Chattahoochee Nature Center to get outdoors and get your nature on!