Grounding in Nature: Finding Balance and Calm

2 minutes

The warmer months bring fresh growth and color to parks and gardens. It is a lovely time to take your yoga practice outdoors and use the sights, sounds and sensations of nature to feel more grounded.

18 April 2025

Unagrande Yoga Expert

2228

What is grounding?

Grounding is a practice of bringing your attention to the present moment, with the aim of easing stress and anxiety, restoring emotional balance and reconnecting with yourself. Spending time in nature can help some people feel calmer and more refreshed; this is a sensory and mindfulness practice, rather than a medical treatment. In spring, summer and early autumn, it can be especially pleasant to spend time outdoors. Fresh air, warm ground and plants in bloom create inviting conditions for slowing down and resting.

How to practice grounding in nature

Choose a place: find a quiet corner of a park, garden or woodland where you can practice comfortably and relax.
Walk barefoot on the grass: if the ground is safe and you are comfortable doing so, take off your shoes and notice the texture of the earth or grass beneath your feet. Feel your weight spread across your feet, giving you a sense of support and stability.
Hug a tree: yes, really. Touching a tree can be a simple way to focus on a physical sensation and feel connected with your surroundings.
Look around: bring your attention to nature: listen to leaves rustling, feel the movement of the air, and watch insects or changing patches of light. This can help you slow down and become more aware of the moment.
Try some simple poses

Open Equestrian Pose

Hayarut Hasana II 1 minute

Mountain Pose (Tadasana) — helps you explore a sense of steadiness.
Tree Pose (Vrksasana) — develops concentration and balance.
Open Horse Rider Pose (Hayarut Hasana) — helps you feel supported by the ground and work on hip mobility.

Breathing practices in the fresh air

Try calm, comfortable breathing to settle into a sense of inner balance. Breathe in slowly through your nose, then breathe out slowly through your mouth, noticing whether your body softens with each exhalation. Avoid forcing deep breaths. Focus on the sensations in your body and the nature around you.

Deep Immerse Meditation

: 20 mins

: 1 asana

: 500 points

: 2 kkal

Tips for practising outdoors

Practise in the morning or evening, when it is cooler and there are fewer people around.
Bring a mat or a small blanket for seated and lying poses.
Dress for the weather so that you can focus on the practice.
Bring water and a towel — especially in hot weather, these can help you stay comfortable during your practice.
Finish with a short meditation, lying on safe, comfortable ground or on your mat and noticing the support beneath you.