These days, yoga classes can be held in so many cool locations and sometimes even far away from a yoga mat. You'll find yoga classes in breweries, wineries, museums, malls, parks and courtyards, airports, rooftops...the list goes on and on.
The accessibility of yoga has grown in the past few years that these locations allow those who may not feel comfortable going to a yoga studio to try yoga in a space that they're more familiar with — a space where their practice can blossom.
Another location that's becoming popular for yoga classes is the pool. That's right! More and more people are leaving their mats behind and heading to the pool for some Aqua Yoga. Here are 5 reasons why you should start finding comfort in the pool as a new venue for your asana practice.
Water provides buoyancy, so those balancing postures become a little less difficult. Now everyone can explore Tree Pose and Warrior III with all the confidence in the world!
2. It can be extremely therapeutic & relaxing.
As the water provides support to the body, you start to physically feel lighter and therefore feeling less strain on muscles and joints.
3. Props are still at your fingertips.
Say hello to the pool noodle! This little life-saver provides for additional stability and makes classes a lot more fun. Use the noodle to hold those balancing postures a little longer, get help getting your body into Dancer Pose, or creating a fun moment in class by using the noodle as a sword in Warrior II.
4. It CAN improve your flexibility and challenge you.
Though it is low impact, Aqua Yoga can be challenging and can help you increase flexibility and breath awareness. In Aqua Yoga, you can hold the postures a little longer while focusing on your breath and keeping the entire body engaged.
5. Savasana is sooo much sweeter.
Ahhh...that moment of yoga class that most (if not all) yogis look forward to – sweet Savasana. If the only reason why you try Aqua Yoga is to experience Savasana in the water, I would not blame you.
Floating in the water with a pool noodle supporting you almost gives you the feeling of floating on air. As you close your eyes and find stillness, you'll be surprised that when it time to bring back your awareness to the present moment, you've floated off into another space in the pool. Such a beautiful feeling.
Aqua Yoga class it truly an experinece that should be explored. Finding peace, stillness, gratitude and strength has never felt so good. Have you tired Aqua Yoga? Share your experience in the comments below!