We all know that yoga is a staple in the health and wellness industry, but have you yearned for something different between the “om”s and the “namaste”s? Thankfully with yoga’s growing popularity, you can step outside the normal studio and bring your practice to new heights. Check out these new yoga trends to try this new year.
1. Eco-Yoga
A recent study shows that being outside for just two hours a week can make you happier. Following suit, you can center your soul while basking in positive vibes by practicing yoga outdoors through the trend of “eco-yoga”. This up and coming style is basically a combination of walking, hiking, and meditating, all of which have been linked to better mental and physical health. Next time you head out for a mountain hike or walk in the park, take your yoga mat with you for a fun, new way to breathe in fresh air and become one with nature.
2. Chair Yoga
The first time I took a chair yoga class, I didn’t know what to expect. It was a room full of seats arranged in a circle, facing the instructor in the middle. After learning some stretches that could easily be practiced anywhere there is a chair, I came to realize how powerful this restorative type of yoga could be. It allows you to be mindful of your breath and limitations, which also makes it a great way to practice yoga even if you have mobility issues or pain in certain areas of your body.
3. Animal Yoga
Did you know seeing furry animals is a natural de-stressor? For one, studies have shown that dog owners live longer lives than non-dog parents, with lower rates of death from stroke or heart disease. Furthermore, many new age companies have dog-friendly offices to aid as a stress reliever, Google being one of the pioneers. That’s why it’s a no-brainer to combine our favorite animals with our yoga practice. There are many different classes and events with various animals but goat and puppy yoga are definitely two that have gained a lot of recent attention.
4. Breweries & Wineries
Healthy living and alcohol don’t have to be mutually exclusive as long as you drink responsibly. I’m always one for a relaxing glass of wine after a long work week. If you like to imbibe on the occasion, then this may be the perfect way to get you out of your yoga rut. Many wineries and breweries in New Jersey are partnering with local yoga instructors to utilize their space for this interesting collaboration. Typically, the cost of a yoga class includes a glass of wine or pint of beer to bring you further down the path of relaxation.
Hope these interesting yoga trends reinvigorate your practice! Check out some organizations and locations below that offer these types of fun classes.
- Horse & Goat Yoga
- Doggy Noses and Yoga Poses
- Dark City Brewing Company
- Yoga + Wine = Everything’s Fine
- NY Goat Yoga
~ XOXO Kris
