Yoga in the Wild
By Kelly Fisher
My nephew recently graduated from college. He went to James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA, so we went down to help him celebrate with his family. It is an exciting time to see his promise and potential, and we drove home on Skyline Drive. Taking the scenic route home reminded me that we do not have to go far to have wonderful experiences. This summer, celebrate with the Yoga Center. If you are traveling somewhere near or far, snap a pic of yourself in a yoga pose, then follow and tag us on social media. We are @The Yoga Center of Columbia on Facebook and @Columbiayoga on Instagram.
Traveling is more than just visiting new places, it is an investment in yourself. It broadens your perspective, enriches your understanding of the world, and offers countless opportunities for personal growth. Stepping outside of your comfort zone is one thing yoga, mindfulness practices, and travel have in common.
Here are five reasons to venture beyond your comfort zone:
Expand your Horizons: Travel exposes you to different cultures, ways of life, and ideas. You learn about history, art, and societal norms that differ from your own, fostering a more nuanced and tolerant worldview. Yoga and mindful movement help you recognize that you are and can do more than you think you can.
Reduce Stress and Rejuvenate: A change of scenery can be incredibly therapeutic. Stepping away from daily routines, work pressures, and familiar environments creates a pattern-reset and allows your mind and body to relax and recharge. The novelty of new experiences stimulates your senses and invigorates your spirit. Stepping on to your yoga or Pilates mat and connecting to the breath is a quick way to let go of busy thoughts and settle into a state of ease.
Increase your Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills: Being in a new environment often forces you to adapt, think on your feet, and find creative solutions to unexpected challenges. This practice strengthens your problem-solving abilities and can even spark new ideas and inspirations upon your return. Moving your body in new or unusual ways teaches you how to adapt to different situations, and it trains your body-mind to prepare for the unexpected.
Build New Connections: Whether you're meeting locals, fellow travelers, or simply observing people in a new setting, travel inherently involves human connection. These interactions can be brief yet impactful, leading to new friendships, shared experiences, and a deeper understanding of humanity. The Yoga Center offers weekly classes, workshops, community walks, and community hikes to help you make new friends and fortify long-term relationships.
Personal Growth and Self-Discovery: When you're away from your usual routines and support systems, you often discover hidden strengths and capabilities. Navigating unfamiliar situations builds confidence and resilience, leading to a greater sense of self-reliance and self-awareness. Likewise with yoga and mindful movement, you discover that you can reach beyond what you think you can accomplish for yourself.
You could amplify these benefits by joining Linda and Mo locally for their Summer Serenity RRR Retreat or one of our other teachers internationally in Spain, Costa Rica, Tunisia, or any of our other upcoming international retreats.
Again, you do not have to go far to have a transformational experience, there are so many wonderful places to visit right in our backyard. Skyline Drive, the Chesapeake Bay, Deep Creek Lake, the mountains, or the ocean. Return to your own promise and potential by taking a little trip. Or simply land on your yoga mat in your own backyard. Then, strike a pose, take your pic, post it and tag us @The Yoga Center of Columbia on Facebook and @Columbiayoga on Instagram.
