Select a region
Are you wondering why more and more islanders have been spotted walking around with yoga mats under their arms this summer? Express spoke to three yogis to understand the growing outdoor yoga trend and its benefits…
What started as a handful of keen stretchers some years ago has blossomed into a community of hundreds of islanders who regularly flock to parks, beaches and green spaces to practice yoga outdoors.
But why has this ancient Indian practice has experienced such a surge in popularity in recent years?
Jersey's outdoor yoga scene kicked off six years ago with the launch of The Island Yoga Project, offering an affordable weekly schedule of £5 classes taught by different instructors in various styles across the island.
Founder Megan Whittaker said the idea arose when she and two other teachers coincidentally planned outdoor classes at the same beach on the same day.
"Afterwards I thought, wouldn't it be nice if we worked together, spread out with our classes and instead ensured there was a class every day over the weekend – so this is what we did," she explained.
The Island Yoga Project has since grown into nearly 20 outdoor classes per week during summer at sites including Jersey Pearl, Green Island, Millbrook Park, St Martin's Village Green, Gorey Common, the Lido and La Collette Gardens.
"The response has been amazing, and each year we have more and more people coming to move and breathe in the sunshine with us!" added Megan.
Hoping to engage more islanders in healthy activities, the Jersey Development Company recently launched a series of free, weekly outdoor yoga sessions at Marina Gardens throughout the summer.
JDC CEO Lee Henry said: "The lunchtime sessions will epitomise our dedication to promoting health and wellness within St Helier."
These sessions, which run from June to September, are led by Joe Houzé.
The instructor, who also leads Island Yoga sessions on Mondays at Howard Davis Park, attributes the rising popularity of outdoor yoga in Jersey to its mainstream acceptance as a way to boost physical and mental wellbeing.
He credited Megan's Island Yoga Project for making outdoor yoga more accessible through affordable, non-judgmental classes held at scenic locations.
"The benefits to the community are vast: physical health, mental health, community, and connection to nature," said Joe.
He added: "Given my personal experiences with anxiety, and my background in yoga therapy for mental health, my primary focus is mental health benefits and my classes draw on mindfulness, breathing practices and going gently with self."
For yoga teacher Rebecca Taylor, outdoor yoga events can help to boost islanders' wellbeing.
Pictured: Yoga teacher Rebecca Taylor and her demo team, Sarah, Tatiana and Tasha. . (Alan Cravo Photography)
She recently drew 160 people to a free community class in Howard Davis Park which focused on gentle yoga, mindfulness and breathwork and offered free vegan healthy treats and drinks.
Rebecca said: "My main drive for setting up the Free Community Yoga Event in Howard Davis Park was to encourage people to come together, to feel that sense of community spirit knowing they are not alone, whilst practising a gentle yoga class and experiencing the benefits.
Pictured: At noon every Tuesday and Thursday, the Jersey Development Company will offer 45-minute yoga and tai chi classes led by Joe Houzé and Ray Malloy at Marina Gardens – the grassed area above the Waterfront car park.
"It's so important to give back to the community too, and to encourage people to prioritise their own space and wellbeing."
She added: "Outdoor yoga has grown so much in recent years, it's such a popular community activity now.
"People are coming together to flow but also to prioritise their well-being, to be amongst friends and to make space and take time out from the everyday stresses of life."
Rebecca believes Jersey's natural beauty, supportive yoga community, and public appetite for healthy living have all contributed to the rise of outdoor yoga's popularity.
She said that her goal is to make yoga accessible for all.
"It doesn't have to be a huge investment and yoga is for everybody, there are so many styles I think are overlooked," she said.
"I've had a lot of clients tell me they tried yoga once and didn't like it, it takes a while and some research to find the practice and the teacher that is right for you."
Rebecca attracted 160 people to a free community class in Howard Davis Park on 5 June focused on gentle yoga, mindfulness and breathwork.
Credit: Alan Cravo Photography
Comments
Comments on this story express the views of the commentator only, not Bailiwick Publishing. We are unable to guarantee the accuracy of any of those comments.