There is nothing I love more than a yoga class outside to nature's soundtrack; listening to the waves, the birds singing overhead, and the wind rustling the leaves in the trees.
Our Activ Life classes at sunset are truly magical when you combine sounds with sensation; the warmth of the setting sun on your toes and a gentle breeze playing in your hair.
With the sound of nature at my fingertips, each outdoor Activ Life yoga class is never the same. One day offering thunder and a refreshing sprinkle of rain (closely rewarded with rainbows), and the next we're watching the sun set as the moon rises over swimmers in the sea.
Natural sounds and green environments have been linked with relaxation and wellbeing for hundreds of years, helping to reduce our body’s natural fight-or-flight response as we feel a clear-headed calm wash over us. That's why our entire Activ Life Online Studio is filmed in the open air surrounded by flourishing trees, glistening water, playful chooks, lush grass, and the occasional sneaky iguana.
In addition to nature's sound, we'll also be including the good vibrations from a collection of magnificent Tibetan singing bowls (pictured) made from high quality, locally sourced materials crafted by local artisans, trained in centuries-old, traditional methods in Kathmandu, Nepal. This ancient sound healing technique uses tonal frequencies to slow down brain waves to a deeply restorative state, activating the body's system of self-healing.
Deep relaxation is one of the most significant and universal benefits of a sound bath, so enjoy when lying in Savasana at the end of your yoga class. Sounds baths can boost your health by improving sleep and reducing blood pressure, while decreasing stress and anxiety. You may find relief from headaches, a boost in confidence, and greater focus, energy and attention span, as well as being able to take more control of daily tasks and build on your organisational skills.
Let's face it. Whether it’s Bach or Beyoncé, music can elicit a variety of reactions in your body and mind. Accessible to everyone, try humming now to yourself for just two minutes and notice how your mood begins to change. Go on, give it a go!
We'll be adding these sound healing sessions to the Activ Life Online Studio shortly, so keep an eye on our Facebook and Instagram pages to find out as soon as they are uploaded so you can immerse yourself in these good vibrations. Practise online with us here.
Louise FitzRoy is the Principal of Activ Life, a leading health and wellness company based in the Cayman Islands. If you enjoyed this article you may also like: Why outdoor yoga is good for you and Meditation for self-care.
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