There is a reason why Yoga teachers use so many metaphors and associations with nature when guiding a class in asana or meditation. Whether it be inspired by the beauty of trees, the steadfast nature of mountains, or the gentle power of a river, essentially all we really need to know about the teachings of Yoga, nature already is.  So not surprisingly, over the years, I, along with many others, have found that my outdoor pursuits and sporting activities have truly shaped and guided my Yoga practice, and vice versa.

As I observe a number of people being attracted to the practice of Yoga asana as a balanced means of cross training for various sports and activities, I recall how that was the initial draw for me to an asana practice. A more focused mind, dynamic physical strength, isolation of key muscles, a good stretch after a long day skiing, biking, boating or playing offered an instant improvement to the strength, stamina and recovery time of my body.  As I became more committed to my Yoga practice I noticed that my other activities were vying for time and I found myself conflicted between time spent on my mat, and time spent watching the weather conditions.

Like any natural evolution it didn’t take long before the practice of Yoga began to permeate the way I approached my time spent playing in the backcountry. I began to truly embody my practice while experiencing the meaning of going with the flow and surrender while kayaking a whitewater river.  The meaning of being present and connected to breath became alive while staying focused on a fast downhill single track. I didn’t need to read any books on impermanence at the end of a long ski-tour climb that seemed to never end; or the self-reflection necessary when pushing myself past physical and emotional boundaries in clutch moments in the backcountry.

I have often said that Nature is the best teacher. My time spent on the mat continues to deeply inform, guide and prepare me for the moments off my mat where life gets lived. As the warming weather calls you to dig out your hiking boots, bikes, kayaks, climbing shoes, and call up our favorite play partners – observe how your practice makes a subtle shift in the way in which you approach your outdoor pursuits.

Get out there and get stoked!
Ally Bogard