Practising in the great outdoors

It's easy to forget, but it's been a long, cold winter. Now the summer's well and truly here, why not take your yoga practice outside?

Practising in the open air can feel completely different, especially if you are lucky enough to have a large garden. Or, even better, access to a beach!

For the rest of us, a small outside space (back yard, small garden, roof area) will do, whether it's in a town, or in the depths of the countryside. 

Make sure the surface reasonably flat, and you have enough room to swing your arms. Practising on two yoga mats can be more comfortable.

Start by breathing deeply, noticing the sounds around you - and how different the energy feels compared to practising inside. 

Feel the sun or breeze on your skin; maintain this awareness of your surroundings, and the sense of space around you, throughout your practice.