Indiana & Yoga Magazine Summer 2016 Issue 1 | Page 18

COMMUNIT Y lengthening movements, and a focus on breathing. And it will definitely multiply the balance and strengthening benefits of a normal SUP session or a studio yoga class, by tenfold. You get to have a a lot of fun, a solid workout, perhaps get a little bit wet, and maybe learn to laugh at yourself if you get the wobbles and fall in the water. Joys of SUP Yoga: 1. Explore the unknown: New to yoga, SUP or both? Perfect! There is an amazing world to the endless possibilities that exist in this user-friendly activity. The communities are welcoming and SUP yoga is for any ability level. Poses are modified, and the goal is to enjoy the beautiful surroundings while embarking on a life-changing experience. 4. Going with the Flow (Literally!): SUP yoga encourages us to let go of trying to be in control of every situation. Our boards will drift away. Our neighbors will bump us. The wind and currents will move us, and if we just let go, we will practice peacefully. If we fight the outside influences, we will spend the time paddling in circles and not practicing. This teaches us to be present and allow our surroundings to guide us to where we need to be. 5. Savasana: The closing of the practice is the most peaceful, surreal experience. When we allow ourselves to fully surrender and let nature be our guide, the experience is unparalleled. The songs from the birds, the splashing of the water, they are sounds we replicate indoors. But here in the floating studio, we are in a concert of nature’s symphony. ■ 2. Embrace and let go of your fears: If you have fears of the water, falling in, judgment by others or your own perfectionism, now is the time to conquer these fears and let them fuel the pursuit to trying something extraordinary. Each time we challenge ourselves we grow. We become stronger. 3. Connect with Nature: Practicing outside the studio walls allows us to be in the most natural setting. The sounds of nature are real. The water we float upon is real, and the connection to nature becomes one words can’t describe. Since we are comprised of over 70 percent water, we resonate with water, and the connection becomes something magical. It will be an experience that inspires us to listen to the breath and become in tune with our surroundings. 16 INDIANA & YOGA MAGAZINE ISSUE I