A gentle breeze tickles your nose, the wind blows through the trees, the birds chirp, and you breathe in the fresh scent of the forest. Outdoor yoga touches all your senses and provides deep relaxation for body and mind. Let your soul unwind in nature, find yourself in peace, and recharge your batteries.
We'll tell you why yoga and meditation in the fresh air are so beneficial and why it's ideal for both beginners and yoga professionals.
Why yoga in the forest and in nature is so good
A trip to the forest is always an experience. It's the perfect way to quickly escape from everyday life and recharge. Yoga in the open air is a mini-vacation for body, mind, and soul—and it's completely free. The bodywork under the trees provides additional relaxation and makes us feel very close to Mother Earth. But why, in particular, does the forest have such a calming effect on us?
Excursion into color psychology: Green color
Sometimes subtle, sometimes bold, but always present in the forest and in nature: the color green! It has a particularly calming effect on us and our bodies. We perceive green as tranquil and natural. From a psychological perspective, we associate it with things like hope, happiness, contentment, and regeneration. It can boost our creativity and help us regenerate muscle and tissue cells. In short: The forest simply makes you happy!
Benefits for our immune system: terpenes
In the forest, we are surrounded by particularly high levels of terpenes. These substances are secreted by plants and trees outside. They use them to protect themselves from pests. A positive side effect: They stimulate the positive development of our immune system. Scientists have discovered this in studies. For example, they compared groups of people who breathed normal room air with air enriched with terpenes. The effects of the terpenes were measurable just one day later. The number of active immune cells was increased in those who had inhaled them. So, whether for a walk or for yoga exercises: it's best to get out into the forest as often as possible and enjoy the fresh air!
This is how time in the forest affects your body:
- the production of stress hormones is reduced
- blood pressure is lowered
- the heart rate drops
- the immune system is strengthened
- the body generally gains new energy and strength
- blood circulation is stimulated
- the vitamin D stores are recharged by the sun
What you need for outdoor yoga
During our outdoor yoga practice, we feel a deep connection with Mother Earth especially strongly. You don't need a lot of yoga equipment for a relaxing outdoor outing:
- A sufficiently thick yoga mat or a non-slip blanket.
- Depending on how much time you spend in the forest, you should remember to bring enough water and provisions.
- Sun or wind? Depending on the weather, you'll need the right clothing and sunscreen, for example.
- Think about appropriate footwear for rough terrain.
- Protect yourself from ticks and other insects with insect repellent.
- Take your phone with you and set it to silent! If you're alone in the woods, this is definitely a good idea.
The perfect place for outdoor yoga
What may be a great spot for outdoor yoga for one person may not be for another. Therefore, you should decide for yourself what is important to you. Do you prefer to be as alone as possible? Then a quiet forest, away from busy hiking trails, is perfect for you. It doesn't bother you if other people are in your field of vision or even walking relatively close by? Even a busy public park is suitable. The distance from your home is also important. You don't want to drive halfway across town for a spontaneous yoga session... Lay out your yoga mat under a tree and begin your exercises in peace. Then all you have to do is take a deep breath of the wonderful forest air, feel the nature, and enjoy it to the fullest.
By the way: practicing on uneven floors challenges your sense of balance. Some yoga poses will therefore be easier on the smooth surface of a yoga studio.
Outdoor yoga: beautiful alone and in a group
Are you more of a solo yogi or a group yogi? Outdoor yoga is always a treat. If you want to be completely alone and celebrate the journey to your yoga spot in silence, solo yoga is best. If you prefer to share the joy and enjoy practicing yoga in a group, you're sure to find yogis who would be happy to join you for a little outing. Why not try both? Some days you feel more comfortable alone, others you'd like to share your yoga joy with someone.
Off into nature with your yoga teacher
By the lake, in the park, or in the forest... many yoga teachers take advantage of the warmer months of the year and simply move their yoga class outdoors. The great advantage, especially for beginners, is that you have the security of your teacher. They will guide you through the exercises as usual, correcting your asana posture as needed. Many yogis also prefer guided meditations. The interplay of nature and the soothing voice of the teacher will allow you to sink deeply into meditation.
Which yoga exercises in nature?
Outdoor yoga is a wonderful way to escape everyday life in good weather. Just like indoor yoga, a secure footing is important for yoga exercises in nature. Therefore, the surface should be as level as possible. Avoid laying your mat on large roots or piles of leaves. This could cause you to twist your ankle or hurt yourself during the exercises. If you follow this tip, you can practice all the exercises you enjoy at home or in the studio. Whether you're a beginner or a professional, practicing yoga outdoors in the forest is simply fun!
Do you enjoy practicing yoga in nature? Or would you like to try it soon? We'd love to hear about your experiences!
