'Live in the sunshine,
Swim in the sea.
Drink in the wild air.'
R. W. Emerson
Research shows that there are a variety of benefits from exercising outdoors e.g. reduced stress, anxiety, and depression, improved cognitive function and creativity and even enhanced physical fitness since different muscles might be engaged differently if you're moving on a flat and hard surface, or on a sandy beach or soft grass. Being outdoors in nature has always been a source of peace and joy for me, and taking my wellness practice outside has added a whole new layer of magic and I've been known to unroll my mat under the open sky come rain, come shine - and yes even SNOW (it must be the viking in me) and here are a few more reasons why you also might want to 'move out' this summer:
1. The Beauty of Natural Surroundings
Practicing outdoors means I’m constantly surrounded by nature’s beauty. There’s something profoundly soothing about doing my sun salutations while the sun rises, painting the sky in hues of pink and gold. Every session feels like a celebration of the world’s natural wonders.
2. The Melody of Nature
Forget recorded meditation music; the real symphony is outside. Birds chirping, leaves rustling, and the gentle hum of the breeze create the perfect backdrop for my practice. It’s like Mother Nature herself is guiding my practice.
3. Connecting with the Earth
Feeling the grass beneath my feet and the cool ground against my palms grounds me in a way that’s impossible indoors. Each move and pose feels more connected, more intentional, as if the earth is supporting every movement I make.
4. Sunshine and Fresh Air
There’s no better way to soak up some vitamin D than by practicing outside. Sunlight exposure helps the body produce vitamin D, crucial for bone health and immune function and the natural light and fresh air enhances your mood and boosts serotonin levels. .The warmth of the sun on my skin and the fresh air in my lungs revitalizes my body and mind.
5. A Sense of Freedom
The wide-open spaces give me a sense of freedom and expansion hat’s hard to find indoors. There are no walls to confine me, no ceilings to limit my stretch. I can reach for the sky in tree pose and feel like I’m truly touching the clouds, or even kickng them around in a double leg stretch.
6. Adorable Wildlife Encounters
Outdoor exercising often comes with cute, unexpected visitors. Squirrels scampering nearby, birds fluttering overhead, and the occasional butterfly landing on my mat make each session feel like a whimsical adventure. They remind me to find joy in the little things.
7. Mindful of Nature’s Rhythm
Moving my body outdoors helps me attune to the natural rhythm of the world. I’m more mindful of the changing seasons, the shifts in weather, and the cycles of the day. This deep connection with nature enriches my practice and my daily life.
Practicing outdoors has brought an abundance of joy, peace, and connection into my life. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate the wonders of nature while nurturing my body and soul. If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend taking your mat outside and experiencing the magic for yourself - after all summertime is here, let's make the most of it!
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