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Tuesday, July 05, 2011
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Yoga Moves Outdoors for the Summer |
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As we move into summertime, the warm days naturally draw yogis around the country to practice yoga outdoors. While practicing yoga in nature is indisputably becoming more common, sunnier climes—from Florida to Boulder—have offered outdoor yoga as a staple over the past decade. And of course, the concept of yogis practicing outdoors is perhaps as ancient as sadhana itself, age-old clichés of yogis in caves notwithstanding. As modern American yogis begin to increasingly embrace outdoor practice, a briefing on the benefits of time spent outdoors is in order.
Yoga practiced anywhere is highly beneficial to health, but when executed outdoors (especially in green settings) such benefits may be compounded. Scientists have shown that exposure to sunlight improves eyesight and decreases the likelihood of poor vision. Another obvious benefit to increased sunlight exposure is Vitamin D uptake, a serious consideration for those of us north of Atlanta GA. A shout out to sunscreen is a must here; optimal time for Vitamin D uptake is roughly 10-20 minutes, after which it’s recommended that sunscreen be applied to avoid excessive UV ray exposure. Time spent in nature—called “forest bathing” in Japan—has been found to correlate with improved immune function as well as lower concentrations of cortisol, lower pulse rate, lower blood pressure, and optimize parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system function. Improved recovery time from surgery can also be added to the list of nature’s benefits on health. Researchers have also found cognitive benefits to be associated with time spent in nature, including improvements in directed attention and cognitive performance, decreased mental fatigue, restored mental clarity, and improved sense of well-being. While extensive, these benefits are but a sampling of the many perks of spending time outdoors. Some yogis may find it challenging to practice yoga or otherwise exercise outdoors, due to pollen, insects, or other factors. Never fear; the benefits are still accessible! Simply practicing in a space where green plants may be viewed has also been shown beneficial to health. An additional benefit for those with allergies? Many plants, whether in or out of doors—such as philodendron, Chinese evergreen, or bamboo palm—have been shown to “improve air quality, increase humidity, and reduce the quantity of mold spores and airborne germs.” How has practicing yoga outdoors effected your yoga practice, your physical health or your mind? 3 Comments
Yoga outdoors is my favorite thing in the world! There's nothing better than feeling the earth and soft grass under your feet, cool summer breezes and the warmth of the sun. I love it!!
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July 18, 2011
Sand in my toes, water splashing in the background, morning sun on my face....it simply feels good!
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August 11, 2011
I am doing gym work and I am interested to learn and practise yoga along with my building objective,So what you suggest here???Thanks.
chicago gym 3
October 03, 2011
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The best things in life are nearest: Breath in your nostrils, light in your eyes, flowers at your feet, duties at your hand, the path of right just before you. Then do not grasp at the stars, but do life's plain, common work as it comes, certain that daily duties and daily bread are the sweetest things in life. Robert Louis Stevenson |
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Ahimsa, the yogic practice of non violence must be adhered to when engaging in the practice of hatha yoga. Respect your body's limitations and inner wisdom, if something feels wrong or dangerous, please do not do it.
Please consult your health care practitioner before starting a yoga, pranayama or other exercise program.
All contents copyright 2001-2012 Timothy Burgin and Yogabasics.com. All rights reserved. Om shanti peace.
Please consult your health care practitioner before starting a yoga, pranayama or other exercise program.
All contents copyright 2001-2012 Timothy Burgin and Yogabasics.com. All rights reserved. Om shanti peace.
