Make like a tree...
The benefits of yoga outdoors
By Stephanie Fortener-Atwood |
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After practicing yoga indoors all winter, why not spice up your routine by taking it outside? It's easy to forget that yoga is supposed to be more than a physical activity cramped into an hour at the studio. Yoga is meant to be a somatic practice - one that joins the body and the mind. There is no better way to participate in this holistic activity than by uniting it with nature.
Nature inspires many of yoga's poses, such as the tree pose and mountain pose. Yoga instructor Beaker Prince teaches at the Village at Schiller Park Recreation Center, and in the summer, her classes move outdoors. Although the outdoor classes were born out of necessity (the recreation center isn't air conditioned), they have gained popularity because they lead to a different type of practice. "Being outdoors changes the yoga experience; you draw inspiration from your surroundings," said Prince. "You can do tree pose while actually looking at a tree. It's incredible."
The outdoor experience isn't without surprises. Students must be easy-going and able to adapt to the unpredictability of nature. Prince explained that students need to be prepared for a visit from a curious dog or the unexpected wail of a fire truck's siren. What is the worst example of nature's folly? Without missing a beat, Prince replied, "The day the beehive found us!" Fortunately, students are able to move indoors if the weather doesn't cooperate or the bees make another appearance.
The Schiller Recreation Center offers eight or ten class passes. Since so many people have summer travel plans, students do not have to commit in advance to which classes they plan to attend. Rather, it's a 'drop-in' policy. If you're new to yoga, Prince recommends taking a beginner class before jumping into the more advanced outdoor class. Summer registration will take place between May 18 and May 22. The class schedule has not yet been released, but Prince says the outdoor classes are typically in the evening. Check out the recreation center webpage for the latest schedule.
These classes just might help you to slow down and more fully appreciate each day, while getting some sunshine and fresh air in the process. Namaste!
Originally Published: May 1, 2009
