Yoga teaches us to be present with our body and breath. To be present to the moment, feel grounded and embrace the unknown are some of the many benefits that come with a consistent yoga practice. Similar to yoga, traveling is another powerful way to learn about yourself and the world at large. Traveling, just like yoga, teaches one to get out of their comfort zone, and to see people and the world with a fresh new perspective. When traveling, the world becomes your yoga mat, and every breath you take, every bite of new food you taste, and every stranger that you meet is all a part of the practice called life.
Here are five reasons to pack your bag, yoga mat and a big appetite for an adventure and new destination!
1.You will automatically have a network of friends, support and a community of like-minded people to guide you on the mat and off during your travels – the yogis!
2. It is important to try new practices and get out of your regular routine. Practicing yoga in a new country can teach you how to embrace the unknown and open your eyes to other ways of practicing, other cultures and a new way of life.
3. Practicing yoga in another language, even one you may not understand, reinforces and reminds you about the universal language of love and acceptance that yoga brings.
4. While traveling in a new place, it’s good to remain consistent with your practice. However, it is important to embrace the new culture via food, experiences and people. A regular yoga practice can help one stay emotionally grounded, digestively regular and physically in shape (just in case you are eating hummus every day like me!).
5. Savasana, regardless of what country you are in, is always the same!
So, my fellow yogis and yoginis, it is really easy and fun to practice yoga in another country. Do some research beforehand, contact the studios, and explore which one will best suit you during your traveling adventure. Stay open to a new culture and various ways to practice your breath and intention, both on and off the yoga mat. Eat new food, go out dancing, watch sunsets, have conversations with strangers, and embrace the magic and beauty of the unknown that traveling and yoga can bring into your life.
