Athletes know the importance of working on flexibility and mobility. A great way to do this is through yoga. June 21 is National Yoga Day, a perfect way to honor the body and practice mindfulness—all while getting those get stretching and relaxation benefits.
Whether you are an athlete who regularly practices yoga, or someone trying it for the first time, today is a great way to work on balance with a tree pose or relieve muscle tension in a cobra pose.
1. Take A Group Yoga Class
Participating in a group yoga session is a wonderful way to practice yoga. Offered at gyms and private yoga studios, drop in for a class today. Many communities and yoga studios organize special classes on National Yoga Day. These sessions often include a variety of yoga styles, from Hatha and Vinyasa to Ashtanga and Kundalini, catering to all levels of practitioners. Group sessions foster a sense of community and collective energy, enhancing the overall experience. Grab a teammate or friend and get your stretch on.
2. Practice Yoga Outdoors
Celebrate National Yoga Day by taking your yoga mat outside and practice in nature. Whether it’s a park, beach, or your backyard, outdoor yoga allows you to connect with the environment and enjoy the fresh air. The natural surroundings can enhance your practice, helping you to achieve a deeper state of relaxation and mindfulness. Have a workout planned outdoors today? Use your cool down to practice yoga, which helps to make sure you get your stretches in.
3. Try a New Yoga Style
National Yoga Day is the perfect time to explore different styles of yoga. If you’re used to a particular type, such as Vinyasa, try something new like Yin Yoga, which focuses on deep stretching and relaxation, or Power Yoga, which is more dynamic and strength-building. Exploring various styles can broaden your understanding and appreciation of yoga.
4. Practice Yoga At Home
If you prefer practicing at home, create a dedicated yoga space. Find a quiet area, add some calming elements like candles, incense, or essential oils, and set up your mat. A peaceful and inviting space can enhance your practice and make it a regular part of your routine. This is a great idea after practice or a workout.
Opt to do our own press and stretches if familiar with yoga or stream a class using on-demand platforms like those provides by CorePower Yoga. Classes include core work in Core Power, Yoga Sculpt that is a great high-intensity workout, or Core Restore that is more geared towards stretches.
Practicing yoga before bed can help rest the body and then mind.