Nature is a great teacher

- yes, she is!

When we practice outdoor we have to adapt and rethink our practice. Nature is alive an constantly changing, no flat, artificial grounds like in our urban studios. Asanas might not look or feel like we are used to...explore this experience with joy and dig out the beginners mind 

Go play in the forest - with the forest, like you did as a child!

We took these pictures in Africa's southernmost forest @ healthy, ancient, green and jucy - Platbos forest. Check its website for more information on this magical place and it's natural tree essences: http://www.platbos.co.za/platbos_forest.html

Padmasana variation

Lotus Pose variation

• I might not achieve full Padmasana in this life, but anyway, I practice it daily :)
• calming, grounding posture
• straightens the spine
• stimulates pelvis, abdomen and bladder by deep stretching this area, traditionally this pose we hold long and static. STIRA SUKHA ASANAM. Yoga Sutra 46. It says postures are meant to be comfortable and steady. We shall practice yoga postures without effort or tightness, so our attention can focus on the infinite.
• stretches anckeles and knees
• eases menstrual discomfort by widening and creating room in the pelvis
• can be practiced until late into pregnancy and is said to ease childbirth
• supposed to awaken kundalini

Vrksasana

Treepose

• strenghtes thighs, claves, ankles and your spine
• stretches groin and inner thigh of the lifted leg
• stretches chest and shoulders, once balances is found and arms activated
• improves feeling of balance
• strenghtens plantar muscles improves inner arch of foot
• teaches to be flexible and strong at the same time

Ardha Matsyendrasana

Half lord of the fishes

• stimulates liver and kidneys by a twist started from the pelvic area. No deep asymetric twist on trees please.
• stretches hips, shouders, chest
• energizes the spine
• relieves menstrual discomfort, fatigue and lower backache
• increases appetite and digestion by stimulating intestionals
• supposed to awaken kundalini

Parsvakonasana

Extended side angle pose

• strenghtens and stretches the legs
• stretches groins, spine, chest ans lungs!
• stimulates abdominal organs
• builds stamina
• improves balance and digestion

Urdhva Mukha Savanasana

Upward facing dog

• improves posture by opening and stretching the chest and straightening the spine
• stretches lungs (therapeutic for asthma), shoulders and abdomen
• firms your glutaeii
• relieves fatigue and lower back pain

Walking meditation

...is about establishing AWARENESS and developing mindfulness during the activities of your daily life. http://yogajust.blogspot.ch/2013/01/gehmeditation.html