“How Engaging in Yoga on the Shore Aided Me in Reestablishing a Connection with Reality”

"How Engaging in Yoga on the Shore Aided Me in Reestablishing a Connection with Reality"


### Rekindling the Bliss of Yoga: A Joyful Comeback to Outdoor Practice

The pandemic altered numerous aspects of daily life, compelling us to adjust and change our routines in numerous ways. For yoga enthusiasts, this frequently involved shifting their practice from tranquil studio environments to the limited space of small homes or virtual classes. For some, these modifications were a struggle and diminished their connection to yoga. However, with the relaxation of public health measures, many have rekindled their passion for in-person yoga, especially in outdoor locations like beaches, parks, or other natural settings.

One inspiring tale describes a joyful return to yoga—this time at the beach—and underscores how a change in scenery can revitalize an otherwise stagnant practice. This article delves into the pleasures of reinstating yoga in an outdoor context, from the physical advantages of practicing on sand to the calming atmosphere offered by nature.

### **The Much-Anticipated Reunion With Yoga**

For numerous practitioners, the path back to yoga after months of pandemic-related breaks has been filled with expectation and relief. Nonetheless, it hasn’t been without its obstacles. Online classes provided a practical alternative but often fell short of replicating the immersive, soothing atmosphere that live sessions offered.

The shift back to in-person yoga classes has paved the way for the exploration of outdoor yoga—and for one person, yoga at the beach felt like returning home. After nearly a year of inconsistent online yoga mixed with resistance training as a temporary substitute, the chance to practice outdoors revitalized not just their physical relationship with the practice but also the mental and emotional ties to the yoga community.

### **Yoga on the Beach: A Distinct Joy**

Engaging in yoga by the seaside presents an array of benefits that indoor settings cannot imitate. With every session, practitioners have the opportunity to reconnect with the origins of traditional yoga, which was frequently practiced outdoors in natural environments. Let’s examine the unique features of beach yoga:

#### **1. The Sand: A Natural Cushion and Challenge**
One of the most unexpected aspects of beach yoga is how the sand alters the experience. It acts as a soft surface that conforms to the body, providing cushioning for poses that can be tough on studio floors. Meanwhile, the uneven sand adds a challenge to balance and stability, prompting practitioners to activate different muscle groups and enhance posture in ways they might not experience in a studio.

“The sand felt like it was embracing me,” remarked one practitioner, reflecting on how it provided a sense of comfort and grounding during her practice. For others, the sand offers creative possibilities, allowing for modifications to poses or the excitement of trying something new.

#### **2. The Soundtrack: Waves Crash as Nature’s Melody**
Yoga studios often attempt to create a serene atmosphere with soft instrumental music or natural sound recordings. On the beach, the waves provide that soundtrack naturally, immersing participants in a rhythm that aligns with the flow of their breath.

“The sound of crashing waves helped calm my mind,” noted a yoga lover. For many, the ocean’s soothing rhythm has a therapeutic impact, aiding in deeper relaxation and enhancing mindfulness during practice.

#### **3. The Environment: Joyful Distractions**
Practicing yoga in public venues, such as a beach, introduces an element that indoor studios lack—onlookers. While some might find this off-putting, others welcome the lightheartedness and humanity of comments from those passing by.

From bewildered glances to supportive smiles, this interaction adds an unforeseen layer of joy. Laughter acts as an additional balm, and the amusing reactions of beachgoers remind practitioners not to take themselves too earnestly. As one practitioner humorously responded after hearing a comment about her sandy appearance, “Did I look silly? Yes. Did I mind? Not at all.”

#### **4. Connection to Nature**
At its essence, yoga embodies unity—of body, mind, spirit, and oneself with the universe. Practicing outdoors nurtures this connection in a tangible way. The warmth of the sun, the caress of the sea breeze, and the scent of salty air invigorate the senses and elevate consciousness. This, combined with the physical demands of yoga, creates a profoundly revitalizing encounter.

#### **5. The Ultimate Reward: A Swim in the Ocean**
Following an intense yoga session on the sand, nothing is more refreshing than plunging into the cool, welcoming waters of the ocean. It offers not only physical relief from heat and perspiration but also a symbolic purification—a method of washing away any residual stress or tension. For many, this becomes the ideal conclusion to a rejuvenating and centering practice.

### **Rediscovering Strength and Community**

Returning to yoga also presents new opportunities to build on the physical progress achieved during lockdowns. For some, stepping away from yoga led to unexpected strengths in other areas, such as resistance training or cardiovascular workouts.